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Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 552 Google reviews · Running trail in Gulf Breeze, Florida · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Along with a visitor center, this site features 7.5 miles of hiking trails through coastal habitats.
What runners say about Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve
“Easy walking paths, clean parking lot and wonderful hidden beach.”
“Beautiful trails, but be advised - the trails are not marked, and we had poor cell service, so bring a compass and a map/ take a picture of the map.”
“If your kids can tolerate a decent hike, it's a fun spot that actually has some shade and your kids can play in water without waves.”
Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve holds a special place in my heart. Nestled along the picturesque Gulf Coast, this hidden gem of natural beauty and tranquility is a must-visit destination. Walking through the preserve, I was enveloped by the soothing sounds of nature—a symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves.
We are outdoorsy people and while we love the beach we also love to hike. Naval live oaks offers a little of both. With close to 9 miles of trails this is the closest thing to real hiking we have found in the area. Lots of wildlife and as you can see gorgeous trails and views!
Beautiful trails, but be advised - the trails are not marked, and we had poor cell service, so bring a compass and a map/ take a picture of the map. Also, bring a hat for the sun, and water. Some trails are sandy and can be fairly difficult terrain. With those proper expectations in mind though it is quite nice!
This squirrel 🐿️ was on a work trip and looking for something to do. What a nice park with fabulous views. Easy walking paths, clean parking lot and wonderful hidden beach. They have two sides I only got to visit the Pensacola side but want disappoint. Closes at sunset, would have like to get some sunset photos.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful trails, but be advised - the trails are not marked, and we had poor cell service, so bring a compass and a map/ take a picture of the map.”
“My only complaint has to do with the bathrooms in the picnic area, which badly need remodeling.”
“I was also very pleased to find plenty of parking and open picnic tables/grilling stations despite the fact that we were visiting on a holiday weekend.”
“If your kids can tolerate a decent hike, it's a fun spot that actually has some shade and your kids can play in water without waves.”
“These trails, both the boardwalk, visitor center area south of 98, and the Jackson trail on the other side of the highway are wonderful for long hikes.”
Plan your run at Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitenps.gov
- Phone(850) 934-2600
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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