Seven sun-soaked days of Gulf views, dolphin cruises, sea turtle encounters, fresh seafood, and hidden coastal gems— your complete Navarre Beach Vacation Itinerary with bonus rainy-day backups.
Week-long itinerary with the best things to do in Navarre Beach Florida.
Planning a week-long escape to Navarre Beach? Nicknamed "Florida's Most Relaxing Place," this quiet stretch of the Emerald Coast trades high-rise buzz for wide-open shoreline, clear Gulf waters, and a rhythm that actually allows you to unwind and recharge your batteries. And, when you need more entertainment and dining options, Navarre is just a short drive across the Navarre Beach Causeway.
Seven days gives you time to enjoy the must-see highlights, uncover a few hidden gems, and balance adventure with serious beach downtime. But not sure where to start? Here's a little preview of the ultimate Navarre Beach 7 day itinerary:
At Gulf Coast Getaways, we offer a handpicked selection of vacation rentals along Florida's Gulf Coast, and we like to think we know the area as well as anyone. Our destination blog is full of helpful posts, from beach day tips to where to grab the best craft beer and even a bit of local history.
Below, I've put together a detailed, week-long Navarre Beach vacation itinerary to help you make the most of every moment in Navarre Beach and the surrounding area. You'll also find extra tips for Navarre Beach rainy-day activities in case you need a backup plan when the weather doesn't cooperate.
Ready? Let's jump into the details!
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Day 1: Arrival & First Steps on the Sand
After check-in, rest for a bit, then keep the day simple: take a walk on the sand, breathe in a few deep breaths of sea air, and enjoy a beautiful sunset to close it out. This is the classic way to start a Navarre Beach vacation itinerary, a great introduction to the region's natural beauty.
Afternoon: Beach Time + Pier Walk
- Set up your beach chairs and umbrellas.
- Take a walk along the Navarre Beach Pier, the longest fishing pier in Florida (1,545 feet into the Gulf).
- Watch anglers reel in redfish and mackerel, or rent a rod and try to catch some yourself.
Local tip: The pier's octagonal end is a great dolphin-spotting vantage point, and if you're traveling with kids, they'll love peering down at fish in the clear water.
Dinner: Casual & Coastal
- Juana's Pagodas & Sailors' Grill: One of the best restaurants in Navarre Beach, Juana's serves up delicious burgers, pizza, wings, and classic American favorites.
- Or cross the bridge, just five minutes away, for more options in the heart of Navarre, like Dewey Destin's Navarre right next to the Navarre Beach Bridge.
Extra tip: Stay by the pier for sunset. It's your first glimpse of that wide-open Gulf sky — and it sets the tone for the rest of the week.
Day 2: Marine Life & Gulf Adventures
Morning: Snorkeling at the Reefs
Head to the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary, located just offshore at Navarre Beach Marine Park. The water here is typically clear and calm, so if you're with older kids in tow, this is a great op.
- Explore artificial reef sites.
- Spot colorful fish, rays, and sometimes sea turtles.
- Rent kayaks or paddleboards if snorkeling isn't your thing.
Lunch
-
Scooter's Fish House for some of the freshest seafood on the Florida Panhandle. Do yourself a favor and order the Original Scooter's Platter. For a sweet ending, save room for Key lime pie.
Afternoon: Dolphin Tour
Book a trip with a local outfitter and explore the Gulf waters while looking for dolphins, which will most likely appear swimming alongside your boat.
Here are two top-rated local tour operators:
Here's one way to plan your afternoon:
- 3:30 pm departure.
- 90-minute cruise.
- Dolphin sightings + Gulf breeze.
- Return in time for dinner.
Dinner with a View
- Windjammers on the Pier: Located on Navarre Beach Pier, Windjammers is a go-to spot not only for delicious seafood, tacos, burgers, salads, and refreshing cocktails, but also for breathtaking views and front-row sunset seats.
Day 3: Sea Turtles, Science & Santa Rosa Sound
Morning: Conservation & Education
Start the day at the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center.
- Meet Sweet Pea, the resident green sea turtle.
- Join scavenger hunts and interactive exhibits.
- Learn about the local nesting season (May–October).
Then walk over to the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station for hands-on marine programs and guided beach walks.
These two activities are especially good for kids. It's a meaningful way to connect them to the ecosystem they've been swimming in all week.
Afternoon: Water Park Fun
After lunch, take a rest and let it digest, then fill the afternoon with more water fun and thrilling activities at Navarre Family Watersports Water Park. This is a perfect energy burn before dinner, and one of the most popular Navarre Beach family vacation ideas.
Highlights:
- Wibit floating obstacle course.
- Jet skis.
- Pontoon rentals.
- Ropes course + zip line.
Dinner
- Bella Luna Italian Bistro: Cozy, intimate, wood-fired pizzas.
Day 4: Gulf Islands & Hidden Nature
Morning: Gulf Islands National Seashore
Explore the Florida section of the Gulf Islands National Seashore to experience the natural beauty of the Sunshine State at its best, without the big crowds. Bring a cooler and spend a slow morning swimming and shelling. A visit to the seashore is an absolute must in your Navarre Beach vacation itinerary.
Highlights:
- Undeveloped white sand beaches.
- Minimal crowds.
- Wildlife sightings.
- Calm waters.
Afternoon: Live Oaks Naval Campground
Tucked within the seashore, Live Oaks Naval Campground is ideal for families and travelers wanting a mix of beach and forest.
This hidden gem offers:
- Picnic pavilions.
- Shallow bay waters.
- Over seven miles of scenic trails.
- Ancient live oaks.
Dinner: Baja Flavors
- Cactus Flower Cafe: This is a local favorite known for fresh ingredients and family recipes, like the fish tacos and house-made guac.
Day 5: A Day Trip to Fort Pickens
A Navarre Beach 7 day itinerary isn't complete without a day trip to explore the region further. Here's a great idea: drive about an hour west to Fort Pickens. Built in the 1800s, this beautiful brick fortress is a must-visit for any history buff, and it's surprisingly engaging for kids as well.
Here's a sample schedule for your day:
- 9:30 am: Explore tunnels and ramparts.
- 11:00 am: Climb to scenic viewpoints.
- 12:30 pm: Picnic lunch.
- 1:30 pm: Beach time next door.
Return to Navarre in time for dinner at:
- East Bay Crab House: Another local favorite that belongs on any Navarre Beach vacation itinerary. East Bay Crab House is locally known for its chill atmosphere and bold coastal flavors. Their Cajun Angels and Rajun Cajun Orleans are absolute must-tries.
Day 6: Shopping, Zoo & Nightlife
Morning: Local Shopping
Take some time to find nice souvenirs and shop local. Here are some great options:
- The Boardwalk Shop: Beach gear + shaved ice.
- Saltwater Cottage: Handmade jewelry, artisan gifts.
- Island Style: Coastal apparel and décor.
Afternoon: Gulf Breeze Zoo
One of the best Navarre Beach family vacation ideas is to include the beautiful Gulf Breeze Zoo in your itinerary. Just a 15-minute drive from Navarre Beach, this attraction adds variety to a beach week with hundreds of animals, interactive experiences like giraffe feedings, and a small safari train ride that kids love.
Highlights:
- Safari train ride.
- Elevated boardwalk.
- Animal feedings.
- Gem mining.
Dinner & Evening
- Recharge your batteries by indulging in juicy, smoked-to-perfection meats at Buh's BBQ.
- Or, if you're staying in a vacation rental with a well-equipped kitchen, grab fresh seafood from Navarre Seafood Market and cook at your rental. It's a great way to cook together as a family and strengthen bonds.
Want to explore the local nightlife? Here are some of your best bets:
- Juana's Pagodas: DJs, and tropical cocktails.
- Andy D's: Live bands by the beach.
- The Grey Taproom: Craft beer, acoustic music.
Day 7: Slow Morning & Farewell Rituals
Morning Routine
- Sunrise walk along the shoreline.
- Coffee on the balcony.
- Final swim in the Gulf.
If you like golfing but haven't tried it yet during your 7-day stay, consider a round at The Club at Hidden Creek.
Final Lunch
Here's the thing: you'll probably want to go back to some of the spots mentioned above, so this is the time. Choose your favorite restaurant and savor that dish that left you already planning your next bite.
Departure Tip
Plan one last pier stroll to wrap up your Navarre Beach 7-day itinerary the way it started, with stunning sea views and Gulf breezes that never get old. It's a fitting goodbye to the stretch of sand that probably feels a little like yours now.
Bonus: Navarre Beach rainy day activities
When you plan a Florida getaway to Navarre and Navarre Beach, the idea is to enjoy as much of the great outdoors and beautiful beaches as possible. That said, the weather can be unpredictable, and sometimes you need a solid Plan B in case of rain.
Below, I've put together some great options for Navarre Beach rainy-day activities, including a trip to Pensacola, just a 35-minute drive away, where you'll find even more things to do.
- Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: About 40 minutes away, this maritime museum offers indoor exhibits on Gulf Coast naval history, shipwrecks, and lighthouse life. (You can skip the tower climb if the weather's rough.)
- National Naval Aviation Museum: One of the largest aviation museums in the world, fully indoors and excellent for families. Historic aircraft, flight simulators, and immersive exhibits easily fill half a day.
- Pensacola Museum of History: Located downtown, this indoor museum walks visitors through 450+ years of Gulf Coast history, including colonial and maritime eras.
- Pensacola Children's Museum: A hands-on, interactive space ideal for younger kids, with creative play exhibits and historical-themed activities.
- Navarre Bowling Center: A straightforward, family-friendly indoor bowling alley — great for teens and groups needing active indoor fun.
- Regal Navarre: Full indoor movie theater in Navarre. A classic rainy-day fallback with modern seating and current releases.
- Emerald Coast Science Center: About 35 minutes away. Interactive STEM exhibits, robotics, and hands-on science displays designed for families.
Make the most of your Gulf Coast Escape
Make the most of your trip with a stay through Gulf Coast Getaways. From spacious beachfront homes to modern condos just steps from the sand, we offer vacation rentals that feel like your own slice of paradise.
With personalized service and local expertise, we'll help you turn your airshow weekend into an unforgettable Gulf Coast getaway.
