Photo: Phil
Photo: edward nichols
Photo: Greg Hulce
Sound Side Park
★4.7(1,246 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 3-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the playground and wading in the shallow, calm water, while elementary-aged kids are ready to try kayaking and fishing in the protected sound. The gentle conditions make this ideal for first-time paddlers.🧡 Saved by 300+ families
About
Sound Side Park is a waterfront gem perfect for families seeking calm-water adventures in Navarre. Unlike the ocean side, the sheltered Santa Rosa Sound offers gentle waters ideal for introducing young kids to kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while the playground keeps littles entertained on land. With 24/7 access and no admission fee, it's a low-stress destination where families can enjoy beach time without battling Gulf waves.
Highlights
- ✓Kayak launch with calm, protected waters perfect for family paddling
- ✓Playground equipment for younger children
- ✓Excellent shore fishing opportunities with kid-friendly catches
- ✓Shallow, wave-free wading area safe for toddlers
- ✓Frequent dolphin sightings, especially during morning hours
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning (7-9am) for glassy water conditions perfect for beginner kayakers and to spot dolphins feeding
- 2.Bring your own kayaks or paddleboards,there are no rentals on-site, but the launch area is easy to access with parking nearby
- 3.Pack water shoes as the shoreline has shells and seagrass; the sandy bottom is perfect for wading but protection helps
- 4.The playground has limited shade, so slather on sunscreen and consider visiting the play area during early morning or late afternoon
- 5.Fishing from shore works great here,kids often catch small fish, and you don't need a boat to have success
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (7-10am) or late afternoon (4-7pm) offers cooler temperatures and calmer winds for paddling. Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, and spring through early fall provides the warmest water temperatures for wading.
What to Know
Free admission and parking available 24/7. No food vendors or restaurants on-site, so pack snacks and water. Restroom facilities available but no changing stations, so plan accordingly.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with no seasonal closures. Summer (June-August) brings warmest water but also heat and afternoon thunderstorms. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Water activities best enjoyed April through October.
Nearby Eats
Juana's Pagodas nearby offers waterfront dining with a casual kid-friendly menu including burgers and seafood baskets. For quick bites, stop at Navarre Beach Pier for food vendors with pizza, tacos, and ice cream.
More Activities Near Navarre
Park
Ortega Park Drive
Free❤️5
Ortega Park Drive in Navarre offers families a peaceful community park setting perfect for outdoor fun and relaxation. With its combination of playground equipment, spacious green areas for running and playing, and shaded spots ideal for picnics, this park provides a welcoming environment for families to spend quality time together. The walking paths make it easy to explore with strollers while kids burn off energy on the playground.
Park
The Club at Hidden Creek
★4.2$❤️14
The Club at Hidden Creek offers families a unique combination of outdoor recreation and sports activities in a beautiful Navarre setting. While primarily a sports club and golf facility, the property features scenic walking trails, athletic fields, and open spaces where kids can run and play, making it a versatile destination for active families looking to introduce children to golf or enjoy the peaceful wooded surroundings.
Adventure
Navarre Beach Campground
$
Navarre Beach Campground offers families the ultimate outdoor escape with direct beach access, nature-focused activities, and plenty of space for kids to explore. With playgrounds, organized nature programs, and the tranquil sound nearby, it's perfect for families wanting to unplug and experience Florida's natural beauty through camping, beachcombing, and wildlife watching.
Adventure
Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
★4.8$❤️74
Navarre Beach Fishing Pier stretches 1,545 feet into the Gulf of Mexico as Florida's longest pier, offering families an unforgettable combination of fishing fun, marine life spotting, and breathtaking views. Kids will be thrilled watching dolphins play in the surf below while learning to cast their first line, and the accessible design means everyone from toddlers to grandparents can join the adventure.