County: Diversify beach to attract hotels

Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners is considering several requests from Navarre Beach residents and businesses.

Commissioners heard recommendations from the Tourist Development Council regarding future beach amenities.

TDC Executive Director Kate Wilkes said members of the TDC, Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and the public met last week to discuss possible concessions for the beach. The county asked for the feedback before it creates a request for proposal for beach concessions.

Wilkes said people at the meeting agreed that Navarre Beach should “keep with its natural feel” and work toward expanding the Marine Science Center and perhaps construct a Sea Turtle Conservation Center. A mobile snack bar was also suggested.

Commissioner Lane Lynchard asked if people had any interest in land or water-based slides on the beach.

Wilkes said the majority was opposed to any slides, but people agreed activities like miniature golf or go carting should be put in the main land to give children things to do.

For more of this story, see the Dec. 8 issue of Navarre Press or subscribe online.