Contest Winners

Shared Stories

Carol D. of North Carolina

Just returned from navarre beach after not seeing it for 4 years!! My husband & I decided at the last minute to get away from it all for our 46th anniverary. So the first place that came to mind was navarre beach!! So glad we came as it really has beem rebuilt and is still the greatest beach far and wide!! :ooking forward to going back real soon!

Sheri of Florida

Since the 60's I have been numerous times to Navarre Bch. I brought my children, now my grandchildren and great neices and nephews go with me. We all love this beach because it is not covered by condos and hotels and is very famiy friendly. We absolutely love it here.

Nancy K. of Florida

My club, the USS Continuum, has at least one campout a year at the Black Water River State Forest park.(The one close to Harold, Florida) It had been closed for a while because of renovations so we had to hit Huricane Lake a few times. We make it a three day event and include canoeing complete with water gun fights. We always have a great time and eat like Kings cause the Captain of our ship loves to camp cook for us.

C. Patrick McM. of Ohio

One of the first things that we do as a family when we get to the beach is start to gather up enough sea weed so that we can spell out our last name on the sand and keep it thair all week. When people come by and see the name McMAHON in the sand, they no that the IRISH have landed and are going to enjoy the week. Look for us this year in front of the Sugar Beach Condoes. Come over and say HI and who knows maybe we'll have a drink for you.

Philip B. of Tennessee

Driving along , really just looking for place to inland fish , But wifey would rather have Ocean side vacation, Found this place and it's like the best of both worlds !!

Kenneth H. of Louisiana

For the past 20+ years this has been our family getaway. I can think of no better place to have a relaxing trip and to get away from a stress world. My favorite hours on the beach are just before sunset.

Mary H. of Louisiana

I am a greatgrandmother who began coming to Navarre Beach 24 years ago bring my children and young grandchildren. Now these grandchildren are still coming and bringing their children. We love the family atmospere on this beautiful beach and the accomadations are fantastic. This is a great place for a small or large family to go for a wonderful vacation.

Daniel H. of Louisiana

My family has vacationed at Navarre Beach for as long as I can remember. The beautiful beaches with their clean, brillantly, white sand and the aqua, blue water makes this place a picture postcard

Donna H. of Louisiana

Navarre Beach is the greatest! Our family travels here each year for a great time on the beach and all the surrounding activities. Everyone that ask where we go on vacation, I say Navarre Beach is the only place we want to go. Thanks for all the good times and great memories.

Jackie S. of Georgia

Between July 1995 and December 1996, I was lucky enough to have lived on the panhandle of Florida in Mary Ester, just a short distance from Navarre Beach. It was such a beautiful place and I loved visiting the island. Unfortunately, It was struck by 2 hurricanes during that time - Erin in August and Opel in October. I have only been back once since moving away (at that time, it was back to NJ) but I would welcome a chance to see Navarre Beach again, now that it has recovered from those 2 and other storms.

Pam W. of Louisiana

I was divorced for about 20 years & had no intention of ever getting married again. A co-worker introduced me to another co-worker (large company, different department, different shift). We went on lots of dates, all quite wonderful. After several months of dating, he asked me to go to Navarre Beach with him. I was VERY hesitant but glad I did. That's where we fell in love, were married in 2005 & have lived happily ever after.

Joy D. of Louisiana

We used to go to Navarre Beach regularly at the HOliday Inn and we loved the beach there We ran into Navarre by mistake when it was raining in Pensacola.

Shelia S. of Tennessee

I was in at Navarre beach in 2008 for my youngest sons beach wedding. This was my first trip to Florida. I travelled with my oldest son, daughter in law and my two grandchildren. We stayed at Navarre Towers for a week. While the family played on the beach, I stayed on the condo balcony just enjoying the peace & tanquilty and beauty of the gulf. I enjoyed watching the dolphins swim by, the birds dive bombing in the water for fish and just watching the people. I have never had a more enjoyable and relaxing vacation ! I have begged my family to go back this year but with the bad economy and my oldest son losing his job because of downsizing, we won't be able to go this year.

Beth G. of Louisiana

We've been coming to Navarre Beach for over thirty years...with friends and family and now grandkids. We love every minute of it.

Debie B. of Louisiana

My husband and I first came to Navarre Beach 35 years ago as a bride and groom.We stayed at the Holiday Inn, and had a great time. Years later our children came along and we came back as a family of 4. They loved it and a new adventure was made. We were here one year for the Shrimp Festival, we've been to Milton to the train museum. We've floated down the Black River. We toured the air museum and everything else there is to tour. Navarre and Santa Rosa have through the years has always been our spot. Economic times now make it rough to even think of a trip. But, It would be fabulous to see old friends and renew old memories. Please choose my family to receive this great Condo getaway.

Angie S. of Texas

The first time my children experienced the beach was in 1993. They were five and seven then. They are now 21 and 23. We stayed in a condo. When we pulled across the toll bridge it looked like snow was everywhere. The kids could not believe it was white sand. On our second night at the condo, we went for a night time walk. The little sand crabs were all over the place. The kids had crab nets and flashlights. They would try to catch the crabs. My husband and I have never laughed so much! The kids would say "there's one, there's one!" The crabs were crawling across their feet and they would just scream with delight! They would try to walk and the crabs would be under their feet. They would jump,scream, try to run away from the crabs and fall over laughing

Sandra A. McK. of Georgia

I have wonderful memories of Navarre. My parents bought some land over on the highway back in the 1970's. My mother loved walking the beach and looking for shells. My husband and I loved coming down before we had children and then it was even better with the children. Both by son and my daughter had their first "beach trip" at Navarre. At that time it was quite different from today. There were the covered picnic tables up by the beach pavillion. It was a wonderful place for family fun. We spent many days there with extended family members that are no longer living. The last time we went down, was a few years ago. We took my mother. She was not able to walk on the beach but she could sit at the pool and see the beach and watch from the balcony of the condo. Navarre will forever be one of by most favorite memories.

Michelle L. of Louisiana

Took a trip to Navarre with my brother in 2006, after Katrina. The shot is from the beach outside our condo; the hat was made by my husband after the levee breaks, for the many forestry workers and other rescue workers who assisted in New Orleans in '05. My brother met me there, so that we could both take a break; I really neede it b/c I am a psychological therapist in private practice dealing w/ post-Katrina stress disorder. George was amazed and said it reminded him of where we used to go outside Panama City at our g'father's, before that are got so overbuilt.

Mondell d'A. of Louisiana

For the last five years my children and grandchilder have been living in LA., MS., FL., GA., and TN. Navarre is the ideal place to meet and just kick-back. There is just enough to do and rest (no theme parks nor malls). All ages just love Navarre. Nothing real exciting - Just our home away from for a week to be with family. Thank you for that opportunity.

Jean M. of Alabama

In August, 2003 my family visited Navarre and stayed at the Beachview. This included my daughter and her family from Philadelphia, PA, my son and his wife from Hoover, AL and my daughter and her family who live in Gulf Breeze, FL as well as myself and my husband who resided in Pelham, AL. We were together for a great week that ended with the christening of my grandson who lives in Gulf Breeze. Since that time my husband passed away suddenly and that was probably the last time we were all together at the beach. What great memories. The beach was beautiful, not crowded since Florida schools were already in session. This made is very easy to keep our eyes on the kids since we just about had the beach to ourselves. Of course, after that the hurricane came thru and looking at the pics on the internet I saw the destruction and even some of the furniture that we had used in our Beachview Condo. I have returned to Navarre since then, but nothing has compared to that first time when we were all together. Thanks for listening to my story.

Lisa H. of Mississippi

We took our two-year old grandson to this beautiful, non-crowded beach last summer and ever since we got back he has begged to go back to "Santa's Beach". The first time he said it we were totally lost but my son finally figured out that the baby meant the Beaches of Santa Rosa. We had commented on how the beaches were as white as snow and my grandson heard us talk about "Santa" Rosa and he put two and two together and came up with "Santa's beach". We would love to take him back to "Santa's beach this summer.

Anne B. of Tennessee

The first time I visited Navarre Beach, I fell in love with the clear turquoise waters and pure white beaches. I took my daughter and several of her friends during their senior year spring break. It was the last time they would all be together as high school students and their memories, as well as mine, still linger, though it's been six years. I've been trying to get back to Navarre ever since. My husband prefers the East coast beaches, but I know as soon as he sees Navarre Beach, he'll fall in love, just as I did.

Dawn N. of Arkansas

My husband and I rented a house on Navarre Beach for our honeymoon and loved every day there. We were amazed by how lovely, clean and uncrowded the beach was. We really long to be in "Serenity Now" (the name of our rental house)!

Joan D. of Georgia

On one of our first trips to Navarre Beach (maybe 11 years ago) we looked out early in the morning to see an tiny island had been formed in the night. At first a few children were playing there but we watched for them to leave and when they did we captured the island. For hours it grew and all our friends came with more chairs, umbrellas, and coolers. As the day passed everyone who passed spoke or came out to join us. Most offered to take photos of the perfect tiny island and its island gang. Many joined us for a beverage. It was a perfect day in early October and we met many new friends. As the day passed the island grew smaller then finally when not just our feet but chairs too were in the water we moved to shore to watch the sun set. For years now we have looked for our perfect tiny island but it has never been back. We think maybe that perfect day can never be reproduced.

Lauren S. of Georgia

My family has spent wonderful beach vacations in Navarre the last ten years. Each year has brought new adventures and new stories, which makes it very difficult to choose which memory is my favorite. Looking back, I had the most fun the year after my brother was born. It was so much fun to play with him in the pool at our lovely condo, or in the sand by the beautiful gulf waters. The funniest thing was when we would fill up a large bucket with ocean water and my brother would just sit under an umbrella having the best time ever. There was not a dull day that entire week, and it was fun to see how my brother was learning to love the ocean the way the rest of my family does.

Steven W. of Alabama

With the explosion in "condo" building, the cottages and rivers of the Santa Rosa Island area are simple and refreshing. A place for peace but fun activities are available. perfect place. My youth was spent on these beaches during a time when 10-15 people might be on the beach.

Jada of Florida

My favorite memroy of Navare is the trip to the butterfly house that my family took when my mom came to visit from SC. It was right before we found out that she had cancer. She loved butterflies and loved the trip to the butterfly house! My family all got along for that amount of time and the pictures show us smiling and having a great time. That is important to me.

Harrell L. of Louisiana

I am 61 years old and I can remember my Dad taking us to Navar Beach. That was over 30 years ago. The group included his entire family, two sisters one brother and their families along with mine. Total number in the group 19. For one full week I got to see my Dad feel like a KING giving his family something that they would come to remember for a lifetime.. Funny how life goes we come to appreciate thoes acts of love more and more as we grow older. After he died we been back several times and he is always there with us in the old beach stories we tell our childern and now grandchildren.

Patti P. of Georgia

Took my 10 year old daughter and her best friend (at the time) to stay at the Holiday Inn on Navarre Beach for Spring Break. The best out of all the stories I have to share is when we sat at the restaurant on the pier and at dinner at sunset. In trying to teach the girls something about seafood, I saw the table next to us had ordered Calamari salad. I asked both of them if they knew what was in this concoction, to which they both replied "no". I told them it was "squid" and asked what another word for "squid" was. They both shouted "Octopus" for which I gave a small applaus. I noticed my daughter was staring at the dish so I asked what she saw that was so interesting. She remarked, "are those the octopussy's testicles"? Of course being 10, once she realized what she had said, her and her girlfriend were in peels of laughter and repeated it about every 5 minutes after that, once they caught their breath! Me? Oh I joined right in with them and watched while everyone on the patio looked to be sure we didn't need the heimlich.

Sherrie R. of Louisiana

We made our visits to the island before the hurricanes came. The first trip we stopped on our way to visit our son who was stationed in Jacksonville,Fla. in the Navy. We feel in love with the island the first time we laid eyes on her. The evening time was the best! We walked in the sunset over clean white beaches and listened to the wind calling us to stay. I feel in love with my husband of 28 years all over again. He is a Navy veteran, so I guess it is safe to say, we have the ocean in our blood! My next visit to the island, I brought my mother and middle sister with me. We were once again on our way to Jacksonville, Fla, to watch my Navy Lt. son come in with the fleet. My mother and sister take care of my kid sister who has been diagnosed with Schizophrenia for 16 years. It is a very hard disease to live with, but we all love her and wanted to keep her home. It has physically and mentally worn them away. To see them at the beach made my decision to bring them to this "healing place" that more solid. They sat on the sand looking out at the ocean, peaceful and calm. It renewed their spirits and mine. For that, I will always be grateful that God choose to make such a wonderful place close to our home.

Carol B. of Louisiana

Our family has taken a weekly vacation on Navarre since the late 1970s. My father discovered the island and fell in love with the area immediately. For many years, we had several generations of the Boudreaux family together for that week. The memories we share of those times are invaluable. My father passed away in 1996 and we seriously considered ending this family tradition. However, fourteen years later, we still can't imagine not making our annual trek to Navarre. It has become so much of our family's past, present and future, that we can never imagine a summer without Navarre. (By the way, after Hurricane Dennis, we were "forced" to spend our beach week in Destin. Needless to say, it just wasn't the same and Destin is NOT Navarre. We "came back to the island" as quickly as time and nature would allow.

Shelia W. of Kentucky

I used to visit Navarre after tax season each year. It was the neatest place and a great place to unwind after working 24/7 for 3 1/2 months. Everyone was so nice and it was quite and very relaxing. I haven't been back since the last hurricane and have not found another place so enjoyable.

Steve R. of Mississippi

Me, my wife, children, and our extended family have been visiting the best kept secret of Navarre since the early 60's. My kids grew up with regular visits to your beautiful white beaches. There's no place we'd rather be, summer or winter! So many stories I could tell... With a very big family, totally taking over condos... But some of my best memories are when my kids were young, and we would have water balloon wars... search for sand dollars off the sand bars... jet skis in the bay... crab at night and visit the local pubs for karaoke... Too many memories to write about, but we truly love every visit to Navarre, which is usually several times a year. Can't wait to get down there again this summer!

Sheri G. of Florida

My husband and I were married on Navarre Beach April 6, 1991. We had a chosen a deserted spot between two large sand dunes topped with beautiful, golden sea oats to be the "aisle" that I would walk down as my Father gave me away. My husband was so handsome in his tuxedo complete with tails! And, yes, I wore a full wedding gown not caring if it got a little sandy along the way. We timed the ceremony to occur just as the sun was setting. In keeping with our beach wedding, we had chosen two dolphins to top our wedding cake instead of the traditional bride and groom. Amazingly, just as I was getting out of the limousine to walk down to the Gulf, two REAL dolphins came swimming by. But, instead of passing by as they usually do, they stayed and played in the waves throughout our entire ceremony and finally swam away as we shared our first kiss as husband and wife. We feel God was sending us a unique and special blessing! We still love to return to Navarre Beach each year.....18 years and counting!

Cheryl T. of Florida

There is nothing more beautiful than Navarre Beach. I had spent many days and nights prior to the hurricanes that devasted the gulf coast. My fondest memories are sitting on the sugar feeling sand and watching the water, the dophins, the moon at night. It is something that is too beautiful for words. I currently live on the west coast of florida near a world renowned beach....it does not hold a candle or a starfish to Navarre Beach. I miss my yearly pilgrimage to walk and sit on the sands. It is not overcrowded and unlike a neighboring beach is not overrun with tourists and condos. There is no where else like Navarre Beach by far.

Steven W. of Alabama

During the years 1954-1964 my family spent most of each summer in Pensacola and/or somewhere on Santa Rosa Island. The peace and quiet of that time comes to me whenever I need a little "quiet time". It is amazing to see the growth of this area in the last few years. But even with this growth it is still one of the very best places for a vacation.

Bryan J. of Arkansas

The Year before Ivan was my favorite. We didn't get down in July to see the Blue Angels due to my work schedule. Came down in October and stayed at the Holiday Inn on Navarre Beach. We drove to the west into the Gulf Islands Park and went swimming and sunning and only saw a lovely couple from Wisconsin taking pictures in their RV the whole day. Got back to the room and found out that the temp had hit 92 (in October)! No wonder the water felt so good. Glad to see the island coming back!

Christine P. of Louisiana

Navarre Beach has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember! My parents began taking my 6 siblings and I to Navarre every summer when I was a young child. Some of my fondest memories have taken place here. As a youngster, Navarre meant playing on the beach with family and friends. Then, as a teenager, it meant hanging out at the Holidome with friends. A few years later, my husband and I honeymooned there to begin our life together. Now, with three daughters of my own, it means going to the beach for a week of playing in the pristine sand and creating new memories with my own children! We have been to other beaches when the hurricanes devastated Navarre, only to realize that no place else compares!

Jan K. of Missouri

What absolute tranquilty! My husband and I were passing through from visiting close friends on Anna Maria Island. We decided to drive down from Hwy 10 just to see Navarre Beach. We were absolutely swept away with the beauty! We spent hours just walking the beach collecting shells. We couldn't believe the sand. Just like fine sugar and the water was turqoise. Just breathtaking! We had requested information on Navarre Beach because a friend of ours had visited the area and said it was beautiful. Well, it was more than beautiful. It was a little bit of heaven right here on earth. We will definitely be visiting and this time staying much longer so we can experience all that this area has to offer.

Rochelle M. of Alabama

The first time our family vacationed on these beaches was in the Fall of 2008. Me, my husband, our youngest daughter and her boyfriend went to Mary Esther to see the 2 beach houses that we had rented in the Summer for her Valentine Day wedding. She had found the houses on the internet but wanted to see them. (I had been to Ft Walton when I was about 13 and it has changed drastically.) We were only able to stay one day but everything was so nice. When we came back in February 2009 for the wedding I was so impressed with not just the beaches, sea gulls and sand but the friendly people in the towns. Everyone was extremely nice to us.

It was difficut for me as a "mother-of-the bride" to not worry about the problems that destination weddings are "suppose" to have but I found out that those problems did not exsist for us. All the wedding pictures were just enhanced by the beauty of the beach. All our vendors were wonderful, the beach houses were beautiful and our youngest daughter had the "wedding of her dreams".

Jennifer D. of Louisiana

My favorite memory of Navarre Beach is when me and my fiance were swimming in the beautiful blue water with our goggles on. I looked down at the bottom of the ocean and saw all of these sand dollars laying on the bottom. We had so much fun swimming down and picking up all that we could. We put them in our little net. When we got back home to Baton Rouge, I left them out in the sun and they turned a pretty white. I rearranged them in a frame, and we now have all of those sand dollars hanging on our wall. So now, whenever I walk by that picture, it makes me think of my favorite memory at Navarre Beach.

Carol D. of North Carolina

My husband and I met on the beach so its always special to come back every chance we can after 45 years!

Misty L. of Georgia

I have been coming to Navarre beach since I was 12 years old. My parents and I fell in love with it. It was the most beautifil beach we had ever seen. I am now 26 years old and have a husband and 3 step children who had never seen florida and needless to say they fell in love to. We plan on making that trip every year now and watching our kids enjoy the beach as much as I did when I was growing up and as much as I do now!

Joseph & Elizabeth G. of Alabama

My wife and I Met three years ago. We both visited Navarre when we were children and have great memories.Last October we married and our first thought for the honeymoon was Navarre without hesitation! We spent a week and wish we never had to leave. See you in October for our 1st anniversary, cannot [wait!]

Ketrenia H. of Alabama

Over the years my family and my sisters' families have come to Navarre Beach July 4th week. One year we had to evacuate because Hurricain Alberto was approaching. We all spent the night in the halls of Milton High School. It was downgraded to a tropical storm and we returned the next morning. We have some fun stories about that night. Since it rained all week my family stayed two more days when the sun finally came out. My daughter is getting married May 23 and has chosen Navarre for her Honeymoon. She wants to carry on the Navarre tradition!.

Patricia R. of Alabama

My family and I vacationed for the first time at Navarre Beach, Florida about 30 years ago. The Holiday Inn was brand new. It was PACKED! My brother was 20, my sister 17, I was 14 and my little sister was 8. It was such a great place that everyone of us had something to do in out age range. We went for years and years. In fact, we were asked to be extra's in the Jaws movie that was being shot there a few months later. The last time we stayed in Navarre was shortly before the hurricane hit a few years ago. But, this time, it was MY husband, and MY two children and me. Still stayed at the Holiday Inn. And even though it was a little worn, my children LOVED it! It has always held such wonderful memories for my family. Navarre will always hold a special place in my heart.

John P. of Minnesota

I believe it was 2003, my wife and 2 sons rented a condo on the beach for spring break. We flew into Biloxi, Mississippi, then rented a car and drove to Navarre. We found a terrific flight one way as we planned on driving back to Minnesota to save some money. Our condo had not been cleaned yet when we arrived, but the rental agency immediately made arrangements to put us in a beautiful rental home right on the beach for the same price. This really made our trip special

Katherine W. of Tennessee

We moved to Tennessee in 2003. Every opportunity we get, we are off to Navarre Beach!!! Every time we visit we bring a few extra kids with us. We treat them to their first experience with the ocean!!! We teach them about sea life, etc. and how to snorkel. Many memories have been made for loads of kids!!!!

Cindy C. of Georgia

I remember as a kid returning to school and having to write a story about my summer experiences. The memories I have of Navarre and Navarre Beach fill me with excitement as I anticipate the fun I will have again as spring approaches and the dogwoods in Atlanta begin to bloom. That's the time to plan another trip to the beach. The greatest fun I had was during the Mardi Gras parade. The traffic over the bridge was lined with people, smiling faces, birds, ocean breazes and as we walked into the sailor's grill for a pastery and cool drink. Everything was relaxed. This is the atmosphere I love. I took care of my business at the Pak-N-Fax and enjoyed the sunset over the dune behind Cocodrie's. Every person we talked with had a story of their own to tell and they all stopped and talked. As for me, Cindy, and my guy, Dennis -AKA Tropical Storm Cindy which was followed by Hurricane Dennis - We know Navarre will never forget us - we will come to Navarre each year, but Cindy and Dennis will only bring friends and grandchildren year after year.

Dan & Gina M. of Texas

Back in 1966 when i was 18 and taking my last vacation with my parents, we decided to cross over the bridge to Navarre beach. It was beautiful. My wife and i were married in 1970 and have been going there every year, except for a few yrs when the hurricanes messed up the island. My sons are married and enjoy going down there as well. We remember the old Navarre Motel that was a 12 unit cinder block building, the old wooden pier, such great times. We will be going down 3 times this summer. We have flown and we have driven most of the time. It's about 700 miles from Carrollton TX and it has always been worth the drive.

Milly B. of Louisiana

We also discovered Navarre Beach by accident, well rediscovered I should say. Growing up my parents often took us on vacations to various beaches. I have always loved the ocean and dreamed of a beach wedding. I was lucky to find a man who shared this love and supported my dream so we started searching the internet for the perfect place for quiet beach wedding. We had never heard of Navarre Beach but chose it because of it's reputation of beautiful, peaceful, and family friendly beaches. We couldn't have been more happy when we arrived. Navarre was everything we were looking for and more. Absolutely breathtaking, with teal/blue water and snow white sand. The people there were great too, everyone from the local restaurants, the flower shop who made my beautiful bridal bouquet, and the people you pass on the beach who share the same love for this island...locals and vacationers.

We also had the added surprise of being there during an annual meteor shower. Could anything be more perfect, sitting on our balcony each night hearing the waves, feeling the ocean breeze, and watching the continuous shooting starts...unbelievable! We set aside a day to find the perfect spot for our wedding. Needless to say it didn't take long. Just a few miles west at the Santa Rosa National Seashore we found "our spot" at the foot of the largest sand dune we could find. I can't even describe the magnificent beauty, it's something you would have to see to believe.

Well, our wedding day was perfect and fulfilled my dreams. I could not have wished for more. A couple of days later we were traveling down the scenic stretch of state road that connects Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach to meet friends for dinner. We passed a small inn that flashed a memory for me. It wasn't until I saw the sign for "The Sandpiper Inn" that I realized exactly where I was. I knew that as a child we visited an island in that area of Florida a few times, but my parents always called it "Santa Rosa Island". I had not made the connection until then, and what wonderful irony! So Navarre is special to me for many reasons, my childhood memories and the memories that I am now making with my husband and children. I truly feel that fate brought me back to this special place after so many years.

We have returned to visit each year since our wedding in 2002, except for last year unfortunately. Whether pregnant, with babies in tote, or before and after the storms we have been with Navarre through the ups and downs. We checked out of our townhouse one day before Ivan hit and faithfully returned the next year to a very different Navarre. But I can't imagine vacationing anywhere else. We have watched our beautiful little island recover and grow. It has been a long time since we've gotten to drive down the scenic road and visit our "special spot" so I can't wait to visit this year because I've just read of the re-opening. In conclusion I would like to say that Navarre Beach is an island paradise not too far from home. It is the perfect place to bring your children and if you truly want a peaceful vacation. I'm so glad and thankful that you were able to rebuild and strengthen the island for us all to enjoy and I pray that Navarre remains safe and strong in the future!

Joyce P. of Missouri

The first time I found Navarre Beach, it was by accident. I had been working 14 hour days for months and was in bad need of a vacation....I left St. Louis alone - not knowing where I would end up...somewhere near Pensacola was the idea. I had a horrible driving experience this time. Normally, I would take off on my own and love the drive and love discovering new places, but this time was different. I had car trouble, then more car trouble, then there was the accident on the highway that I witnessed and just missed by inches...Then trying to find someone to repair my car on a sunday meant stopping at almost every exit through Alabama.

I was feeling sick the entire time, but kept driving. When I got to Florida, I didn't seem to like Pensacola, so I drove east and noticed the turn off for Navarre Beach - back then you had a holiday Inn on the island and that's where I stopped. It was the most beautiful Island I had ever seen - peaceful and serene. Every Morning that week, I'd go out to walk the beach early and see the Blue Angels flying practice runs overhead! That was awesome!! I had the most relaxing vacation Ever that week and have been going back to Navarre ever since. Last year my boyfriend and I stayed in one of the Condos and now he's also telling everyone about this little place in Florida. Thanks for letting me Share

Cathy B. of Tennessee

We have been going to Navarre Beach for about 4 years. I have two boys who love it there. The beaches are not crowded and its not a loud crazy place like Destin. My oldest wants to be a marine biologist and loves going to catch crabs and hunt for shells. We have seen dolphins, sting rays and different kinds of fish. It is a nice quiet place to visit. This will be the first year we don't get to go due to my husband getting laid off of work. The kids are devistated. Hopefully I can win this trip and get to go again. I highly recommend anyone to visit Navarre Beach. It is a great vacation!!!

Sharon D. of Louisiana

We absolutely love Navarre Beach ! After one of the hurricane hit the island we had to stay on one of the other beaches. We stay for 2 days and came back to Navarre for the rest of the week.We just could not stay away.We will not stay anywhere else. We have been staying in Navarre for 20 years.

John H. of Georgia

The first vacation we took with our son was to Navarre Beach. We stayed a condo that had a small river come right up to the start of the beach. Our son was 2 and did't like the waves. He played in the river along with several other small kids, while my wife and I enjoyed the beach. We have been back several times and look forward to vacationing at Navarre again this year. We like the area because it is low key and has all of the attractions we need.

Sherry C. of Georgia

My husband and our two kids went to Navarre Beach about 10 years ago with some friends. I had never heard of it until our friends mentioned it. It was a great trip for all of us. Our room was right on the beach so we got up every morning and watched the dolphins and rays swim along the coast line. My children swam and for the first time, snorkeled. We fished off a pier that was within walking distance from our room. We were all amazed at how close the dolphins came into the shore and at the size and number of rays that we saw swimming around the pier. We have been to a number of other beaches but never to another that had such clear water and so much to see in the water. It is a trip that my kids still talk about to this day.

I would love the chance to come back again. We usually go to east coach beaches because we have family in Pennsylvania and it is more convenient to meet them there than to have them drive all the way to Florida. But the east coast beaches just don't compare to the Gulf Coast for crystal clear water or shells, or even for the chance to see marine animals.

Frank S. of Georgia

Hello- It has been many years since I visited Navarre Beach. The last time I was there was during the excitement of the filming of the ocean segments for the JAWS movies. We stayed at what was at the time the Holiday Inn and the whole property was over-run with movie production people. One entire side of the hotel was set-up for the production crews with all their equipment. We had the opportunity to visit wth Roy Scheider, who was one of the lead actors in the film, while walking on the beach and to see the several mechanical sharks that were used in the filming of the ocean scenes for the movie.

For the same reasons that Hollywood came to Navarre Beach to film JAWS we came on many occassions around that timeframe to experience the beautiful sugary soft sandy beachs and the (at the time) quiet, relaxing aspects of the area. We water-skied in the intercoastal area and went on many expeditions into the natural habitates. We have enjoyed listening to your new marketing campaigns regarding Navarre Beach as it has brought back wonderful memories of our visits to the area when we were in our 20's. We look forward to the opportunity of returning soon.

Heather B. of Georgia

This year my husband and I will celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. It would be great to return to Navarre after all it was Navarre Beach where we were engaged! July 18, 1983 on a beautiful starlite night my boyfriend, Jeff, asked me to be his wife. Five children and 25 years later on July 7, 2009, Jeff & I have truly been blessed! Thanks for the memories! It would be great to come back!

Geri A. of Louisiana

This year my husband and I will celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. It would be great to return to Navarre after all it was Navarre Beach where we were engaged! July 18, 1983 on a beautiful starlite night my boyfriend, Jeff, asked me to be his wife. Five children and 25 years later on July 7, 2009, Jeff & I have truly been blessed! Thanks for the memories! It would be great to come back!

Stephanie L. of Tennessee

As I started to get near Navarre Beach all I could see were blue tarps on the tops of house, condo were destroyed, and the devastation from Hurricane Dennis. This was supposed to be a joyous time; a week on the beach, my marriage to my best friend of 10 years, and a relaxing week. I knew from the sights it was not how I had imagined it from the previous year. In June of 2005 my then fiancee and I were in Destin, FL for a vacation and decided to drive to Navarre Beach to see the location where we were to say our vows. It was what we wanted and more.

I had a vision of how the week would play out, what my pictures would look like, and how everything would end. Little did I know a month later my plans would be in limbo? Both our families headed down to Navarre Beach on Saturday, arrived at the Pearl, and we were on cloud nine. It wasn't till we took a walk down the beach later that night did I realize the devastation from such a powerful hurricane. However, we were determined to not let this get in the way of what our main goal was marriage. I will never forget the week that was spent in Navarre Beach's sand, shells, pastry shop, The Pearl, beautiful weather, and most of all my marriage.

The day of our wedding I spent the day getting ready, staring at the ocean, and the smell of the ocean blowing into the condo. As the time drew near, I was getting nervous as any bride would, but didn't let that stop me. I arrived at the state park only to find there were workers there jack-hammering in the sand. Tears began to well up in my eyes I couldn't imagine having to yell my vows over the jack-hammer. The gentlemen were gracious enough to stop what they were doing long enough for us to get married. My husband and I have haven't been back since the day of our wedding, but are hoping to revisit in the near future.

Now that we have a child, traveling hasn't been the same. Although the devastation from the hurricane would have stopped many from going through with their wedding, we decided there was no better place on Earth then Navarre Beach. Navarre Beach will forever hold a special place in my heart for myself and my husband.

Wanda D. of Tennessee

About 35 years ago, my family was camping on the beach in Florida and we decided, along with another couple and their family to drive over to Navarre Beach to swim. When we got there, the beach was closed, posted, because of the rough waters from a storm. We foolishly thought we could swim anyway so we all got out in the water with out floats, etc. While out in the water, I discovered another family (3 women) who were caught in an undertow and could not make any progress trying to swim to shore. I bravely(foolishly) took my float out to them and we all were hanging on and making no progress. So, I decide to turn loose of the float and try to swim back to shore. Of course, I could get nowhere and could see my family going back home without me(I could envision my body floating around the bottom of the piers).

Luckily, one of the people we had gone to the beach with got out to me with a raft just before I would have had to give up and go under. In the meantime, my husband - not seeing that I was in trouble - swam out on a raft to the 3 women that I had originally tried to help and was able to help them get to shore. As you can see, I would like to create a more enjoyable memory of Navarre Beach.

Kyle H. of Georgia

Navarre Beach - My family searched for years for the perfect vacation spot. We wanted one that we could come back to year after year after year. After five years of searching the Emerald Coast - we finally found the "hidden jewel" in Navarre Beach. We loved it so much (Summerwind Condominium) that my family went in together (me, mom, sister, brother) and purchased a condo - we called it 11th Heaven - at the Summerwind location. Things were great for a long time...then the trouble started... One summer we returned back from a week's vacation only to find my sister's home has been robbed by an old room mate. That was only the beginning.

The following summer Hurricane Ivan hit! We were forced to evacuate literally the day before it hit. After that, we were forced to sell the condo we loved so much... That did not stop us from returning. Once Summerwind re-opened we came back! But again, an unfortunate event occurred - we had to cut our vacation short as there was a death in the family....

Now, it is 2009 and we have another week booked in June for the whole family to reunite yet again in Navarre. We cannot wait! It seems that nothing - no matter what circumstances - can keep us from coming back - and we will be in Summerwind once again. My children still refer to it as "our condo", and I bet our grandchildren will to...one day... It will always be our "11th Heaven" - no matter what floor we stay on!

Carol D. of North Carolina

We "discovered" Navarre Beach when my husband was TDY at Eglin AFBase in 1979. We try to go every year and meet with my sister and her family but haven't been back since Katrina! Would love to sink my toes in that beautiful white sand again and winning the trip would be a treat!

Anthony C. of Louisiana

It's been awhile since we've been to Navarre Beach with our family. We enjoyed our time there and enjoyed the cleanliness of the beach and the surrounding area. Most enjoyable was the feeling of being somewhat in seclusion after passing over the bridge to our uncrowded paradise. We hope that this contest will find us there again.

Taryn D. of Louisiana

My most wonderful memory of Navarre was October 2007. It was the last time me and my husband were together on the beach. You see he was diagnosed with brain cancer in September 2006. He knew how much I loved the beach and the romantic atmosphere it brought. So even though he was as ill as he was he took me to the beach for my birthday. We were able to walk the beach, talk about our time together, what my plans for the future were, what he wanted for me and how much he loved me. You see during an illness you lose track of time and life takes over.

Navarre beach allowed us to slow down and appreciate each other's company. Not having to worry about his illness or doctor appointments or what tomorrow will bring. So my pictures of that vacation getaway will forever be in my heart and mind. The beach and the ocean always bring a sense of peace to your mind. It is a place where you can go and just relax and let your memories surface of what life is really about. So I thank you for allowing me to share my story and hopefully I will get the opportunity to go back and cherish that time in my mind again.

Dana C. of Tennessee

Our first trip to Navarre was in 2007 when we arrived with two 14 year old teenage boys. We wondered what they would do for a week on a quiet island. They quickly discovered Eco Beach Rentals where they made friends with the owners. We thought the owners would not want to be bothered with the boys but they were very friendly and even made a deal with them that if they "helped" them they could rent surf boards for a full day for a half day price! The boys were thrilled! We watched with lots of laughter as they tried wave after wave to ride the waves ... after many tries and many wipeouts they were successful and were surfing like pros. Last year we went to another beach and missed Navarre. We will definately return but this contest could help us get there sooner!

Sue G. of Tennessee

One of my fondest memories is a trip to Navarre with my granddaughters shortly after the hurricane. The vision of the two-year old's chubby legs sinking deeply into the new sand always brings a smile. It was a wonderful week of beautiful weather, good food and a trip to the Butterfly House. As a paused for one last look at my favorite landscape before leaving, a porpoise suddenly surfaced offshore. I yelled for my granddaughters, and we were rewarded with the sight of three of them out for their morning jaunt. A perfect ending for a grandmother and two and six-year old granddaughters.

Lynn H. of Ohio

Many years ago, I was introduced to the Panhandle by a dear friend, Rochelle Hansley. We "discovered" Navarre Beach, and it was the highlight of our trip. It was the beach we told everybody about! Rochelle passed away several years ago. I always stop in Navarre , even for a few hours in memory of a great friend.

Ann of Alabama

Every spring break when I was in elemenentary school, my mom and one of her friends would take their children, plus some, to enjoy the Holiday Inn Holidome in Navarre Beach. Back then, it was just about the only place to stay at Navarre. We always knew when we were about to arrive because of the long bridge that took us in to Navarre. It was always the perfect vacation. We would enjoy the clown shows, the movies, the indoor pool, outdoor pool and of course, the gorgeous, white sandy beach and beautiful gulf! We made lasting friendships from all over the U.S. Years later, imagine our surprise when we watched the movie Jaws II and noticed the familiar surroundings of the indoor facility of our favorite vacation spot. We would always say that you could see our footprints in the sand as they showed the beach scenes. My mother used to schedule us to check out on Friday or Saturday before the Sunday at the end of our break. We always had so much fun that she would end up booking us for another night or two. We never wanted to leave.

 

Later in life, the friend of mine that always went with us, and I took our children to Navarre. It was like going back in time; how amazing it was to see some of the same sights and feeling as though we had not been away for so many years. The Holidome was there as well as the first round house I had ever seen. More condos had been built as well as a couple of new restaurants. But some things never change; the beach was still the whitest, softest sand and the gulf was it's magical, clear blue-green, just as expected. We got to walk on the beach and remember all of our fond memories of growing up visiting Navarre Beach while our children were making memories of their own. On our last night there, we watched the sun go down. Sitting in the moonlight, watching the waves glow as they rolled in, we reminisced of our youthful years, building sandcastles, digging holes, swimming and searching for sand dollars. We realized then that our mom's were probably having the same conversations back then as they watched us having the time of our lives.

Tigran A. of Mississippi

I just loved the place from the start back in 93 on a school trip.So then I brought my wife on our 10th wedding anniversary.Then she fell in love,We came back a month later.We planned on coming back then my wife went to the hospital,which put a damper in our plans.I hope to make it back in may on our 12th year,if the depression dont kill us.

Carolyn A. of Tennessee

Although a native Nashvillian, I lived and taught school in Mobile, Alabama for 7 years in the 80's as a young woman. I met and married my husband there, and we learned about Navarre Beach when it was so brand new, there weren't that many places there. Talk about pristine and a romantic hideaway! We stayed at the Holiday Inn. It had an indoor pool. We loved it there and returned several times - even during the winter. I remember a Christmas handbell choir that performed there and even a Valentine weekend we spent there. We relocated to Tennessee in the mid-80's and have not returned since. I would love to be able to return to our old stomping grounds!

Taryn D. of Louisiana

My most wonderful memory of Navarre was October 2007. It was the last time me and my husband were together on the beach. You see he was diagnosed with brain cancer in September 2006. He knew how much I loved the beach and the romantic atmosphere it brought. So even though he was as ill as he was he took me to the beach for my birthday. We were able to walk the beach, talk about our time together, what my plans for the future were, what he wanted for me and how much he loved me. You see during an illness you lose track of time and life takes over. Navarre beach allowed us to slow down and appreciate each otherâ•˙s company. Not having to worry about his illness or doctor appointments or what tomorrow will bring. So my pictures of that vacation getaway will forever be in my heart and mind. The beach and the ocean always bring a sense of peace to your mind. It is a place where you can go and just relax and let your memories surface of what life is really about. So I thank you for allowing me to share my story and hopefully I will get the opportunity to go back and cherish that time in my mind again.