Nearby Spots
Overview
The Navarre Sound is a fun and and low-hassle body of water to foil over. The Sound usually doesn't feel too busy with boat traffic, but it can still get quite wavy. We recommend this area for riders who are just learning to surf down waves. The benefit for all of your hard work taming these waves? You'll fly by beautiful scenery and may be flanked by dolphins.
Keep in mind that the south-side shoreline of the sound can jut out quickly and unexpectedly, so we advise not riding too closely to shore else you'll risk beaching your foil. You'll also want to keep in mind that the waves can reverberate extremely hard near the bridge and break-walls. Kiteboarders are often seen on the south and east side of the Navarre Beach Causeway (bridge).
The shallow depths extend into the sound for some distance and the usually not-crowded coastline makes an ideal spot for launching a kite.
Ratings
Water Quality
Salty, dark water. Otherwise clear.
Heavy Boat Traffic
Expect infrequent boaters and rental jet skis.
Recommended Rider Experience
Riders should be comfortable with handling (or surfing!) waves. You're likely to encounter them here, though it is possible to find glassy smooth conditions. The wind from the west can create wavy waters that are fun, but would be challenging for beginners. The waves have a tendency to reverberate off the shoreline and break-walls.
Launch Points
Woodlawn Beach Public Boat Ramp
1414-1454 Gulf Breeze Pkwy Gulf Breeze, Florida 32563 United States
This is a hidden and tiny launch point. There's a sandy shoreline for you to set up on and parking nearby. Walk your board out to just beyond the docks and pilings.
Juana's Pagodas
1541 Navarre Beach Causeway Navarre, Florida 32566 United States
Juana's is the beach bar between Destin and Pensacola. Expect volleyball courts, jet ski rentals and loads of people enjoying Bushwhackers on the shaded outdoor decks. This is a great spot to launch your EFoil, with a nice sandy beach set up on. The initial ~20 feet of water can be rocky, though, so step lightly.
Sandpiper Pavilion
8937 Gulf Blvd. Navarre, Florida 32566 United States
For a sound-side ride, you can't go wrong with Sandpiper Pavilion. There's ample parking, convenient roundabouts for unloading, a shower to rinse your board(s) off afterward, and public bathrooms. The short is a short hike.