It's true that prices are somewhat less and Navarre is closer to the Main entrance of Hurlburt but the reason that I don't recommend Navarre is the land elevation. Navarre has a very low elevation with a lot of wetlands. I believe the average elevation is about 10 feet and Holley by Sea was built up to about 15 feet above sea level. After Ivan, the area was devastated and after Katrina, there were 26 foot surges. In addition to the lack of protective dunes and low elevations throughout the area, there's also a very narrow shelf which makes the area quite vulnerable. As a 40 year resident of Florida and a beach resident, I am accutely aware of and educate clients regarding wetlands, storm vulnerability and the ridiculous cost of flood insurance. Of course this is not as much as a factor if one is renting but I had a friend that was renting and had to move out of his apartment due to the damage so it's surely an inconvenience.

It's true that Navarre is closer to the main entrance but it just depends on what someone is looking for. I personally would never want to live anywhere along the 98 corridor between west destin and pensacola for a variety of reasons, the elevation being first and foremost but everyone has their preferences.

Hi again, Mar,

Holley by the Sea is a great family area, with large yards, and a community clubhouse that has 3 pool, tennis courts, a beach, exercise gym, etc.--very nice. I just listed a home in Fontainebleau that is beautiful!! If you are at Hurlburt, the Navarre area is great, and the cost of housing there is less than going east toward Fort Walton Beach or Niceville. I would not recommend Niceville for working at Hurlburt. I would be happy to help you identify some properties if you would contact me.

Myke Triebold http://www.DestinHomeRealtor.com
850-305-6256
email: MykeSaysSold@aol.com

Hi Mar,

If I had to pick my favorite family area near Hurlburt, it would be Niceville or Valparaiso. The schools are exceptional, crime is low, it's just across the bridge from the beaches and it's a wonderful area if you are a boater. I've put a link to info about niceville that includes links to MLS feeds to all available properties by community and price range. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you'd like more info.

Take care, Debbie