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
Maritza Lee,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Navarre, FL sell after 70 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 $435,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Exceptional golf course living with panoramic views of the 16th hole in Hidden Creek Estates. This 4BR, 2.5BA home offers 3,211 sq ft of open, light-filled space with soaring ceilings, recessed lighting, and a fireplace in the great room. Chef's kitchen features 42' cabinetry, wall ovens, cooktop with pot filler, tiled backsplash, and ample prep space. Washer and dryer convey in oversized laundry
This 5-bedroom, 5-bath home offers luxury and convenience, featuring two ensuite master bedrooms and a three-stop elevator for easy access on all levels. Built on helical pilings to withstand 180mph hurricane winds, it's designed for ultimate durability. The office/bunk room can also serve as a game room, adding extra versatility. Located in a short-term rental-friendly community with access to a
Move in ready Florida cottage. Just minutes to Navarre Beach, shopping, and Hurlburt Air Force base. This home is perfect for Short Term Rentals, first time homebuyers, 2nd home or downsizers. Its just the right size with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Features new LVP flooring and is very neat and clean. Open concept living room and kitchen, split bedroom and a cute back yard. Book your appointment to
Meticulously maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath brick home offering 2,248 sq ft of living space located in the desirable Sound Retreat neighborhood in Navarre. This well-maintained property is being sold fully furnished, making it truly move-in ready and ideal as a primary residence, second home, or investment opportunity.The home features a spacious and functional floor plan with generous living areas
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
Discover the ''best kept secret'' on Navarre Beach in this premier 3rd-floor studio. Unit 1-311 offers the most direct views and effortless access to the Santa Rosa Sound. As soon as you enter, a large picture window puts the beauty of the Sound front and center. This fully furnished, turn-key unit features tasteful coastal decor that comfortably sleeps four with a queen bed and sleeper sofa.
INVESTORS, NOW IS YOUR CHANCE! BACK ON THE MARKET AT NO FAULT OF THE SELLERS AND WE ARE READY FOR YOUR OFFER! Welcome to Homeport! A community that has access to all of your families favorite things about Navarre Beach! This 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom Canal front home has a new boat lift installed in 2023, two double length garages, gorgeous outdoor living space and is just across the street from the
Custom-built, single-story 4BR/2BA home sits directly on the Santa Rosa Sound with breathtaking, unobstructed water views from the moment you walk through the front door. The open-concept split floor plan was designed to maximize every water view, along with natural light that floods the space with expansive glass windows, French doors, and vaulted ceilings.Outside is a true waterfront retreat:
''At Last'', located at 8037 Gulf Blvd, awaits! Your fully furnished, immaculate 4 bedroom, 3 bath beach front Florida dream townhome rises majestically above the gulf and is 800 feet away from public beach parking! A few highlights include elevator with stops on each floor, incredible Gulf and Sound views, open floor plan, balconies, convenient beach walkover, fabulous floor plan with tall
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
3-Car Garage!! Nestled just 5 miles from the pristine shores of Navarre Beach, this impeccably maintained estate epitomizes coastal luxury living. This residence welcomes you with a grand entrance featuring a morning room/office and a formal dining room, adorned with elegant detailing. The expansive ceramic-tiled living room seamlessly connects to a gourmet kitchen equipped with stainless steel
Your own private backyard retreat, featuring a custom pool built for relaxing and entertaining. This move-in ready 3BR/3BA including a flex space, all-brick home offers an open, highly desirable split floor plan. The spacious great room features soaring cathedral ceilings and a stunning stacking sliding glass door that opens to a screened-in porch—perfect for indoor/outdoor living. The kitchen
Wake up to coastal breezes and sparkling water views in this beautifully positioned Navarre Beach retreat. This charming 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 1,568 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space—perfect for relaxing getaways, full-time living, or an investment opportunity. The end unit townhome is currently a successful income generating short term rental. Enjoy stunning waterviews
Photos Coming Soon. - Welcome to 1733 Sound Haven Ct in Navarre, a charming home that offers comfort, style, and easy Florida living. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home features luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, giving the space a clean, modern feel while being durable and easy to maintain. The kitchen shines with beautiful granite countertops, and the crown molding throughout adds a
Build your future home on this generously sized residential home site located in Holley by the Sea along Pepperwood Dr. Neighborhood amenities may include access to recreation center, pool, fitness facilities, and tennis courts (buyer to verify HOA membership eligibility and dues). Public water is typical for the area, and public sewer service is believed to be available nearby based on
3-bedroom, 2-bath lakefront home on Orion Lake conveniently located approximately 10 minutes from Hurlburt Field and near top-rated local schools, shopping, dining, and the beautiful Emerald Coast beaches. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in Navarre, the property offers a spacious lot with mature palm trees and peaceful water views. The home features a bright Florida room and a separate screened-in
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
Welcome to your new home in the heart of Navarre, FL! This beautiful residence offers a comfortable and stylish living experience, featuring a thoughtfully designed split floor plan ideal for modern living.Key Features:Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 2Flooring: Plank wood-look tile in living areas; Carpet in bedrooms for added warmth and comfortKitchen: Equipped with Quartz countertops, breakfast bar, and
Judy DeckerDAVIS & DECKER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC.
Located in desirable East Navarre, this beautiful home offers exceptional convenience to Hurlburt Field, Navarre Beach, and local shopping and dining.Step through the front door into a bright and inviting living space featuring soaring ceilings that create an open, airy feel. The kitchen serves as the heart of the home, complete with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a
Judy DeckerDAVIS & DECKER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC.
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
Nestled within the prestigious and highly sought after Savannah Plantation neighborhood, this remarkable 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home epitomizes luxury living. With numerous upgrades and perks, this residence offers unparalleled comfort and convenience. From custom landscaping to high-end features, every detail has been carefully curated to provide an exceptional living experience.Property
Judy DeckerDAVIS & DECKER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC.
Property Id: 1646763Open concept three bedroom/ two bath townhouse. Lawn service included. Kitchen has stainless steel appliances with beautiful quartz countertops with a breakfast bar. Large pantry. One bedroom and one bath located on the main floor, two bedrooms and one bath located on the second floor. Ceiling fans in every room. No carpet. LVP throughout. Single car garage with garage
Welcome to this lovely 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath townhome located in Navarre, Florida's desirable Reserve Pointe community. This spacious townhome boasts a variety of upgrades, including wood laminate flooring throughout the open floor plan, which features a modern kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a breakfast bar, and a dining area that opens onto the living room with
Judy DeckerDAVIS & DECKER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC.
MOVE IN SPECIAL!! Offering half off the first month's rent. Encompassing the serene charm of coastal living, 8827 Little Cormorant Lane in Navarre, FL, is a townhouse that beautifully blends comfort and style. This spacious 3-bedroom home invites you into its warm embrace, offering a generous 1,552 square feet of well-designed living space. With two full baths and an additional half bath,
This four bed, two bath home is perfect if you're looking for a quiet neighborhood, and beautiful landscaping!This home is located in the heart of Navarre and close to shopping, schools and the beach. As you enter the front door you are welcomed by the vinyl plank flooring and spacious living room. The kitchen features stainless appliances and ample natural light. The master bedroom has plenty of
Judy DeckerDAVIS & DECKER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC.
Property Id: 2379003*3 bed 2 bath home with a fenced in backyard on East Bay in Navarre, FL. *Close to local shopping, dining, grocery stores, and 10 min to the beach. *Located in a quiet and secure neighborhood*Neighborhood amenities: dog park, tennis/pickleball courts, community pool*Lawn care is included/taken care of by HOA**no cats allowed;
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