The small resort-like community of Navarre, Florida, is a serene spot filled with white sand and emerald green waters. It’s been dubbed “Florida’s most relaxing place” for a reason. The locals are laid-back and easy to connect with, making it a great spot for surfers and beachgoers to enjoy their time.
Surfing in Navarre Beach
Navarre is the perfect spot for those seeking tranquility with a side of surf. There are not a ton of spots that are considered ideal for surfing but the two notable ones are Navarre Pier and Navarre Beach Park. Waves in these areas are consistent and pick up with the occasional hurricane swells that roll through.
Waves in Navarre Beach
The area has a variety of sandbar configurations that result in calmer waves for all ages and levels with light/offshore winds. It's best surfed in the winter months and often during February. The rest of the time, the waves are slightly smaller and blown out, which makes it best for beginners.
Surf Culture in Navarre Beach
Navarre offers a quiet atmosphere for those that visit the area and it is relatively uncrowded, making it a place for surfers who are chasing the calm. Everyone is welcome and hostility in the water is not something that you need to be aware of here.
Gear Needed to Surf in Navarre
Bikinis and boardshorts are great for the summer and spring months of Navarre but because the best surf in the area is during the winter, a wetsuit is advised. Fish boards and longboards will handle the mushy waves the best but it doesn’t hurt to have a shortboard on standby.
The 2 Best Surf Locations in Navarre
There are not a lot of spots specifically in the Navarre area. Of course, you can always travel roughly 30 minutes to Pensacola or Fort Walton but there are two worthy spots you will want to hit first before heading out of town: Navarre Pier and Navarre Beach Park.
Spot 1: Navarre Pier
One of the best pier breaks in the Gulf Coast is Navarre Beach Pier, an exposed sandbar break where you can find consistent surf for the most part.
Most of the surf in this spot manifests in the form of wind swells, with the best wind direction being from the south southeast. Both sides of the pier break from the inside and while the tide doesn’t impact the surf too much, you should still be aware of riptides.
You can access the pier by going west on Highway 98 from Fort Walton Beach, then heading left over the bridge at Navarre. Parking is at the end of the bridge road and there should be ample space, this spot is rarely crowded.
Spot 2: Navarre Beach Park
Navarre Beach Park is a young surfers' paradise. This spot is packed to the brim with younger surfers looking to improve and make a day of it. Nonetheless, the spot is still great for all ages and levels.
Navarre Beach Park is east of the pier and shares the same lot off of the bridge road. This spot is a mid-break that splits up the park and pier crowd. Here, you can find medium-sized east swells that create an enjoyable, long beach break.
What To Do in the Navarre Beach When the Waves are Flat
If the waves are too flat that day and you find yourself thinking, “Now what?” don’t worry; your day is far from spoiled.
If you are looking to stay on the beach, grab some snorkel gear and check out the area's artificial reefs or fish on the pier. There are also several parks that are great for scenic trails, hiking or biking.
Some notable attractions that you will definitely want to see are the Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, Gulf Breeze Zoo and the Emerald Wildlife Refuge.
Maybe you took the lack of waves as a sign to take a break and simply grab a bite to eat. In that case, enjoy some local seafood at Juana’s Pagodas & Sailors’ Grill and take in the views.
Conclusion: Navarre Surfing
Navarre is a great change of scenery for those used to constant hustle and bustle. It’s the spot to unwind, set up your beach chair and enjoy the smooth waves. And even if the weather has rained on your parade or the waves are just too flat to bear, no worries, you won’t be disappointed by the scenery, fun activities and dining options Navarre has to offer.
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