cos1000, it's really a small world isn't it? You are right about the beaches, we spent a lot of time on Okaloosa Island too and between Niceville and Destin is a nice State Park at the bay, quiet and cool.
Believe it or not, our favorit place was the Blackwater River SP, swimming ,canoeing and great bike riding.
My In-Laws still live in Navarre and I love the Santa Rosa Sound.... the Hurricanes have done their handy work to the the Island and beaches, but the Gulf still offers much in this part of the pan handle.... There are no finer beaches anywhere in Florida.... Cool Sand on the hottest of days and great fishing and hidden Golf Resorts for those who venture to this untouched part of Florida (Lower Alabama as they say)..... From Panama City to Pensicola there is still something for everyone on all budgets...[/QUOTE]