A laid-back beach town that's slowly starting to commercialize
Navarre's crystal quartz beaches were once known as 'Florida's Best Kept Secret,' but Travis Mattair says, "the secret has gotten out over the last few years." Mattair, a former Major League Baseball player and current owner/broker of Innerscope Realty LLC, says the quiet coastal town "started to get commercialized in the late 2010s." New shopping centers and restaurants have been popping up along U.S. Highway 98, and a brand-new hotel opened at the oceanfront. Despite the recent influx of tourists, “Navarre still has the same vibe" according to Levi Fortner, another local Realtor who heads up the Fortner Group in Pensacola. “It’s way more laid back and less touristy than nearby beach towns," Fortner says, "and people continue to move here specifically for that."
Navarre's recent commercialization has made tourism a pillar of the local economy, but "it's still a big military community," Mattair says. "We have five major military bases right around us," including Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field. So, he adds, "We get a lot of families moving in and out of the area." Navy Federal Credit Union is another large employer offering several hybrid and remote positions.
Navarre is a hidden gem in Florida, between Pensacola and Fort Walton.
Navarre is a big military community with five major military bases right around them.
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Bayside homes and beachfront condos and townhomes
The median sale price in Navarre is $440,000, about 10% above the national median. However, prices vary based on the home's location. Most houses on the mainland reflect a similar New Traditional ranch style, though some of the newest builds feature contemporary craftsman architecture. Larger homes along the golf course are usually more expensive, mostly ranging between $600,000 and $950,000. Waterfront homes along the bay and sound side typically fall within the $750,000 to $1.25 million range. The most expensive properties are found along the oceanfront in Navarre Beach. Condos and townhomes here can cost anywhere from $475,000 to $1.5 million, while single-family homes range up to almost $4 million.
Navarre offers a great lifestyle to people who love the waterfront and beach life.
You will find condominium buildings of varying heights to give you amazing views.
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Secluded Gulf Coast beaches and fishing in the Santa Rosa Sound
Navarre's powder-like beaches stretch for 12 miles along the Gulf Coast. Santa Rosa National Seashore abuts the beach's west end, making the area feel much more secluded than its Emerald Coast neighbors. "Pensacola Beach is so developed and crowded, so a lot of times we like to go to the parks in Navarre because it's usually way less crowded," Caddell says. The main public beach access is located right off the causeway at Navarre Beach Marine Park. The park extends across 150 acres, linking the oceanfront to the calmer Santa Rosa Sound. The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier measures over 1,500 feet, the longest in Florida. On the mainland, Navarre Park has a smaller pier for sound-side fishing. It also features a waterfront playground, a splash pad and a large picnic pavilion. Anyone can pay to play on the golf course at The Club at Hidden Creek. The community baseball leagues practice at the Navarre Sports Complex, while soccer players head about 2 miles east to the Navarre United Futbol Club.
Navarre has the perfect bay view for its visitors.
Lake Lorraine Estates makes it easy for residents to go fishing in the Choctawhatchee Bay.
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Annual events occur at Navarre Beach Marine Park
Navarre Beach Marine Park isn't just for recreation. It also hosts some of the city's most popular annual events, including the Fourth of July fireworks show and the Navarre Beach Mardi Gras Parade. Community volunteers at the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center organize beach clean-up days throughout the year.
Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center is home to rescued green sea turtle Sweet Pea.
Volunteers care for their pristine beaches in Navarre, Florida.
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Big box stores, waterfront restaurants and micro breweries
Big box stores, fast food chains and a couple of small shopping centers border both sides of Navarre Parkway. Some locally owned businesses are scattered in between. There's fresh Gulf shrimp at the Navarre Seafood Market and handspun milkshakes next door at Tops Burgers. TC's Front Porch serves breakfast, lunch and dinner right across from Navarre Park. Just off the highway, some waterfront restaurants with outdoor patios overlook the Santa Rosa Sound. One of the city's newest businesses, St. Michael's Brewing Company, opened along Florida State Road 87 in 2020. Though most shopping and dining options are on the mainland, Navarre Beach has a couple of popular restaurants and bars right on the beach.
Publix is always a favorite for grocery shopping, even in Navarre.
Dollar General in Navarre.
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Students can attend Santa Rosa County Schools
Navarre is part of the Santa Rosa County School District, which earns an A-minus on Niche. The district includes 41 schools, serving a combined 30,000 students. There are two elementary and intermediate schools, one middle school and one high school in Navarre. Navarre High is the largest high school in the district, with about 2,400 students in 2024. According to Niche, it also ranks as the second-best high school in Santa Rosa County.
Holley Navarre primary School provides a safe learning environment to Navarre.
Navarre High school has an excellent curriculum for its students in Navarre.
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Recent commercialization has increased traffic on Highway 98
Florida State Road 87 and U.S. Highway 98 are the two main routes in Navarre. U.S. 98, or Navarre Parkway, is a two-lane road with designated bike lanes. As the city's population grows, traffic continues to increase along this road, so "you're starting to see a lot more people bike in the summertime," says Caddell. To access the Gulf Coast, folks follow the Navarre Beach Causeway across the Santa Rosa Sound. "A lot of people commute to work because we have such a huge concentration of military bases around here," Caddell says. Hurlburt Field is about 10 miles east of Navarre, and Eglin Air Force Base is just another 13 miles down the road. Emerald Coast vacationers fly into the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, which offers direct flights to 29 major U.S. cities.
Environment and Crime
Navarre gets approximately 230 days of sunshine each year. Still, its position along Florida's Panhandle puts it at high risk during hurricane season. "Our local officials are really good about staying ahead of storms," Caddell says. "They set up sandbag filling stations at parks and major traffic areas if we look like we'll be impacted by the storm." The city's sandbag filling station is located right off U.S. Highway 98 at Navarre Park.
Crime statistics specific to Navarre are not currently available, but FBI data shows that Santa Rosa County has seen a steady decline in violent and property crimes since 2021. Both rates fall far below the national and state averages.
Written By
Ryan Horton
Photography Contributed By
Gabrielle Mazur
Video By
Kyle Keyes
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Gregg Costin,
an experienced agent in this area.
Agents Specializing in Navarre, FL
Craig Brown
Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Navarre, FL sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Navarre, FL over the last 12 months is $439,900, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
**OPEN HOUSE: Tues. 09/15 from 4-6 p.m. Call Agent Debra Pablo for gate access day of: 850-266-4455!!** 17th-floor views like you've never seen: this fully furnished penthouse condo on Navarre Beach delivers elevated coastal living with sweeping, uninterrupted Gulf views over sugar-white sand and emerald water. Spacious interiors (3 bedrooms and 3 FULL baths) flow across durable, stylish tile
WELCOME TO HOLLEY BY THE SEA! Comfort, space and an amenity-filled community come together in this inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home situated on a spacious 0.46-acre lot. Offering approximately 1,850 square feet, the home features a light and bright interior with a comfortable, flowing layout designed for everyday living. The kitchen includes a breakfast bar for casual seating along with a
WATERFRONT NEW HOME!!Welcome to 8756 Sand Pine Drive--a truly rare new-construction opportunity offering 2.39 acres and approximately 388 feet of East Bay River frontage. With its unique pie-shaped homesite, the property stretches approximately 933 feet along the west property line to the water and approximately 597 feet along the east property line to the river. This is the kind of
Turnkey investment opportunity! This fully furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is a proven, cash-flowing Airbnb with a 4.9-star guest rating — move-in or rental-ready from day one. Recent upgrades include updated countertops, new flooring, and a tiled master shower, plus a newer HVAC system, water heater, and roof for low near-term maintenance costs. Outside, a fenced backyard and refreshed deck
Welcome to a truly rare opportunity--This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a 2-car garage offers 1,308 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, perfectly situated on .43-acre property-- which includes an additional lot with a 24' x 25' detached garage/workshop-No HOA. Additional Lot provides endless possibilities for expansion or recreation. Step inside and immediately appreciate the warmth
Perfectly positioned on nearly an acre at the end of an exclusive private cul-de-sac, this exceptional bayfront estate offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the very best of coastal living. Built in 2019, this meticulously crafted residence combines timeless elegance with modern design, all framed by sweeping waterfront views and the peaceful beauty of nature.Designed for both
Welcome to this immaculate, custom-built, home located in the highly desirable Sound Retreat community of Navarre, offering the perfect blend of coastal charm and absolute peace of mind. Sitting high and dry with no history of flooding, this property features major recent upgrades for worry-free living, including a brand-new roof and a new hot water heater, both installed in 2025. Best of all,
Experience waterfront living at The Palms of Sunset Harbor on Navarre Beach. This furnished condo offers wide views of the Santa Rosa Sound and convenient access to the Gulf's renowned shoreline. The Palms provides a private beach area, pool, fishing pier, gazebo, and BBQ stations for owners and guests. Located near the Gulf Islands National Seashore, the setting offers a balance of privacy and
Experience coastal luxury at its finest in this highly sought-after Gulf-front corner unit at Summerwind. Perfectly positioned in the coveted center tower, this stunning 3-bedroom, 3 full bath residence offers 1,397 square feet of beautifully furnished and fully turnkey living space designed to maximize the breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. From the moment you step inside,
Situated on a quiet, low-traffic circle, this move-in-ready residence features a brand-new roof, fresh interior paint, new appliances and stylish new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout. The split layout includes three comfortable bedrooms and two full bathrooms, providing a flexible floor plan ideal for a home office or guest space. The brick exterior and attached two-car garage add
Imagine starting your mornings with coffee in the Florida room, spending sunny afternoons beside your private saltwater pool, and ending the day with a relaxing stroll to the neighborhood's deeded access on Santa Rosa Sound. This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 2,315 square feet of comfortable living space in Sound Retreat--one of Navarre's most desirable neighborhoods,
Move-in ready and beautifully updated, this all-brick 4BR + office, 2,095 sq ft home sits in the quiet La Mesa at Hidden Creek community -- just minutes from Navarre Beach, local parks, and everyday conveniences. A new roof (2024) and HVAC (2024) add peace of mind from day one. Inside, the home delivers a bright, open layout with a formal dining room, dedicated office, and a spacious family room
Robin Edwards
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties
Custom-built and finished with intentional design throughout, this 4 bedroom / 3.5 bath home delivers craftsmanship that is hard to find at any price point in Navarre. Two ensuites give the layout rare flexibility -- whether you need a true primary retreat, a private guest suite, or multi-generational living under one roof. The primary sits off the back of the home with a spa tub, tile shower,
Come live where others vacation! View Captivating Sunsets, Swaying Palms, sugar white beaches; Come make this Beach Getaway your own! Home does need renovations, but is a dream come true for anyone seeking a picturesque water view retreat. Home would make a great investment, flipper, with someone willing to do the work! With amazing sunset views and water vistas from dock/beach area, you'll feel
Welcome to beautiful ''Island Sunrise'' Beach Colony West 13A, a luxurious 3 bedroom 3 en suite bath 3 balcony condominium home in gated Beach Colony West at 8501 Gulf Boulevard, Navarre Beach. This perfectly positioned end corner gulf front residence is refreshed and ready to enjoy panoramic views. Unit 13A is an ideal choice for family fun and entertainment. Rising majestically above the
4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Navarre with an open floor plan and split-bedroom layout. The main living areas feature wood-look flooring, with carpet in the bedrooms. The kitchen opens to the living and dining areas and includes a refrigerator, range, and dishwasher. The primary bedroom has a private bathroom with dual vanities, a walk-in closet, and a shower/tub combo. Three additional bedrooms
We don't just rent apartments. From the moment you walk through the front door you'll feel the comfort that makes our residents happy to call us home. Cutting edge amenities, meticulously-groomed grounds, and a dedicated staff contributes to a higher standard of living. Convenient shopping, award-winning schools, local museums and parks are all close at hand, with sponsored activities to develop
Easy living in grande style. Cayo Grande Navarre has splendid NEWLY UPGRADED floor plans and great amenities that will more than meet your needs. We boast not just one, but two refreshing swimming pools to enjoy our beautiful Florida weather. You can take a dip to cool off on a hot summer day or just spread out on our spacious tanning decks to soak up some rays. We also have a putting green so
Experience the ultimate coastal lifestyle in this spacious, multi-level 4-bedroom townhome nestled directly on the Santa Rosa Sound in Navarre Beach’s sought-after Buena Vida community.**Seasonal, 31 nights+, one year or multi-year lease options available.**Spanning 2,283 square feet across three well-appointed levels, this home offers rare flexibility, privacy, and less than a 5
Property Id: 2724083 Just a short drive from the white-sand beaches of the Gulf Coast, this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort, space, and coastal charm. Nestled on a private corner lot, this home offers added privacy while still being part of a welcoming, family-friendly neighborhood with sidewalks perfect for evening walks, bike rides, and strolls
Property Id: 1206549 Beachy Bliss: Family Paradise w/ Game Room & Huge Yard The Space Welcome to Beachy Bliss, the ultimate coastal getaway designed specifically for families and long-term stays! Located in a quiet, peaceful neighborhood just 3 miles from Navarre Beach, you are moments away from world-famous white sands, emerald waters, and endless ocean adventures like
Property Id: 2803085 This inviting rental property is just 5 minutes from the Gulf Breeze Zoo, 12 minutes from Navarre Beach, 25 minutes from Hurlburt Field, and conveniently located between Destin and Pensacola. The home features a brand-new kitchen with all new appliances, including a refrigerator, along with washer hookups for added convenience. With three spacious bedrooms and two
Beachy , colorful apartment. on an acre of land. utilities and Wi-Fi included. pool for tenant use as well. Its a colorful place and happy. king bed in large open space and a small bunkbed room. bathroom is large with deep soaking tub. Private porch area right outside for relaxing in.
Welcome to this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering a comfortable open layout, modern finishes, and a convenient Navarre location. The home features attractive tile plank flooring, plenty of cabinet and counter space, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious walk-in pantry.All three bedrooms include ceiling fans and large closets, providing plenty of comfort and
Property Id: 1749084 Stunning Renovated Home for Rent in Prime Navarre Location! This beautifully updated home is move-in ready with brand-new bathrooms, a modern kitchen with granite countertops, and a new island for extra prep space. Freshly painted with new luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring and updated hardware throughout, it feels like new. The home features a one-car attached
This all brick 3 bedroom looks and feels brand new. The 2 story town home features 2.5 Bathrooms,attached garage, and tile throughout the first floor. The kitchen boast granite counters, maple cabinets and black GE appliances. Newer Wahser & Dryer included with rental. Highly desirable neighborhood with community pool and minutes away from the beach. No pets allowed. Call Today to apply!
Joseph RichardsonRichardson Realty International Inc
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