The History of Navarre Florida

Navarre is a picturesque community located in the northwest part of Florida, known for its stunning, soft, white sandy beaches and rich history. The area has a long and diverse past, with influences from Native American tribes, Spanish explorers, and American settlers.

A Brief History of Navarre

The history of Navarre dates back to the early 16th century when Spanish explorers first arrived on its shores. They encountered the indigenous people, including the Creek and Choctaw tribes, who had already established settlements in the area. The Spanish colonized the region and built several forts, such as Santa Rosa and San Miguel, to protect their interests.

In the 19th century, Navarre became a popular area for settlers due to its fertile land and access to the Santa Rosa Sound. The community grew slowly but steadily, relying on agriculture, fishing, and lumbering as the primary sources of income. The construction of the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad in the late 19th century further facilitated growth and trade in the region.

Navarre witnessed significant development during the 20th century. In the 1920s, the creation of the Santa Rosa Sound Bridge, later replaced by the Navarre Bridge, improved connectivity with nearby cities and led to increased tourism. The region’s natural beauty and pristine beaches attracted visitors and spurred the growth of the tourism industry.

The Local Area, Today

Today, the local area is a vibrant community with a population of approximately 45,000 residents; renowned for its top-notch neighborhoods and excellent schools, making it an attractive place for families. Some of the notable neighborhoods include:

• Holley by the Sea: Situated east of Navarre, this large subdivision offers various amenities like a community center, swimming pools, tennis courts, and access to the East Bay. It is known for its spacious homes and a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Navarre Beach: Located on a barrier island, Navarre Beach is a sought-after neighborhood known for its pristine white sandy beaches and stunning waterfront properties. It offers a tranquil coastal lifestyle with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.
• Whispering Pines: Situated near the Santa Rosa Sound, this neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It boasts a peaceful atmosphere and is known for its well-maintained properties and lush greenery.

Navarre also prides itself on its educational institutions. The community is served by several excellent schools, including:

• Holley-Navarre Primary School: With under 1,000 students, Holley-Navarre Primary School is a highly-rated elementary school offering quality education to young students.
• Holley-Navarre Intermediate School: Similar to Holley-Navarre Primary school, Holley-Navarre Intermediate School also has under 1,000 students. This school provides education to first to fifth-grade students and focuses on academic excellence and character development. The student to teacher ratio is estimated at 14:1.
• Navarre High School: With under 2,500 students, Navarre High School ranks 2nd among 7 ranked high schools in the district. This school is a comprehensive school offering a wide range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and sports.

These schools, along with others in the area, prioritize providing students with a well-rounded education and preparing them for future success.

The local area has more to offer than just the white sandy beaches; it boasts a rich history and has grown into a thriving community. Its top neighborhoods offer diverse living options, from family-friendly subdivisions to coastal luxury properties. The excellent schools in Navarre emphasize quality education and help foster the growth and development of the community’s young minds.

Are you ready to make Navarre your home? Contact us today to begin your search for the perfect home for your family.