A Little Bit of Paradise

Part of me doesn't even want to share these pictures, because I'm afraid that word will get out about this little piece of Paradise lost...

Marc and I decided to take a little last minute getaway before going back to school/work. We booked the trip about two weeks out so it was just enough time for me to plan a few things, but mostly we just wanted to relax on the beach. 

After a six-hour drive, we arrived in Navarre Beach. It is a quiet little town right on the Gulf on a stretch called the Emerald Coast. It lies almost exactly halfway between Pensacola and Ft. Walton Beach, but it's not touristy at all.

After dinner on our first night, we went over to the beach to check it out. I have to say this is the nicest, cleanest public beach I've ever seen in my life. Absolutely beautiful! There were plenty of parking areas, public access boardwalks, and nice picnic/restroom areas. 

The only green flag day we would have...

Marc and I strolled up and down the beach and watched the sunset. It was stunning! The best part? The beach was empty!

The next morning, we got up early and ate a nice (free!) breakfast at our hotel. It was supposed to rain later in the day, so we wanted to make the most out of the time we had. It ended up being an overcast day, and it started to rain around lunchtime. So, we headed back to the hotel, freshened up, then headed over to Pensacola for some delicious soul food at Five Sisters Blues Cafe. (I highly recommend them!) Later that day, we headed back to the beach and stayed until dark.

The next day was absolutely gorgeous! It was a yellow flag day, and the waves were nice and big!

Marc and I staked out our little piece of the beach, played in the waves, and chilled in our chairs.

I can see why they call it the "Emerald Coast."

Marc taking a break from the waves.

(Notice all the people around? NOT!)

Soaking up the sun!

Marc was in heaven searching for shells! I swear he could stay in the water all day long!

He found a crab!

Cute little guy! (The crab, too!)

Unfortunately, a huge wave washed our underwater camera out of Marc's hand. We've had the worst luck with that thing! He also opened it underwater a couple of years ago when we were in the Bahamas.

We stayed and watched the sunset. There was also a full moon that night, and it was stunning! A perfect ending to a perfect trip!

So, if you're ever in the mood for a quick getaway to a beautiful beach that is never crowded, head down to Navarre Beach. On the other hand, you could always go to one of the other more populated beaches, like Destin or Panama City. 

We'll stick with Navarre!