Beach Archive

Twenty-four years ago, Sept. 11 became an infamous date in the annals of American history. Four planes were hijacked, with three crashing into major American buildings, such as the Pentagon and Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Nearly 3,000 people died, including hundreds of first responders.

The Pensacola lighthouse has stood tall along the sandy shores of Pensacola Bay for nearly 175 years. Now a museum, the lighthouse has quite a history, relating to the Civil War, its lighthouse keepers and the supposed ghosts which haunt the tower and keeper’s quarters. Jon Hill, the executive director of the Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, helps keep the lights on.

The North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command began a counter unmanned aerial systems experiment Sept. 3.

Nine years ago, Sweet Pea, the beloved resident sea turtle at Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Con-servation Center, was rescued and began her journey from severely injured animal to local conservation icon.

During most of this past week, Aug. 18 to Aug. 22, Navarre Beach locals and visitors alike saw a large abundance of jellyfish.

The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, located on Okaloosa Island, is celebrating seven decades of marine animal conservation, education and entertainment in 2025.

The Sandollar condominiums on Navarre Beach is no more.

The 40-year-old structure, located at 7885 Gulf Blvd., was demolished over a period of several days starting Wednesday, Aug. 6. The Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners approved the demolition of the beachfront condominium April 24.

The Navarre Beach Lifeguards went to Daytona Beach this past month to compete in the United States Lifesaving Association’s Lifesaving Regional Championships and returned as second place finishers.

The Florida Department of Health in Santa Rosa County (DOH-Santa Rosa) is lifting the advisory for high bacterial levels the following location: Navarre Beach at public access 37A and 40B. 

Navarre Beach, like any coastal beach, has its share of hazards and dangers. From rough surf to jellyfish, Navarre Beach visitors must be aware of their surroundings and educated on how to stay safe while still having a good time.

That’s where the Navarre Beach Lifeguards come in. Austin Turnbull, Navarre Beach Safety Division Chief, has overseen the lifeguards since 2018. According to Turnbull, one of the major dangers on the beach is something you may not even notice.