Frequently Asked Questions

Everything families ask before booking Stella Maris, a luxury soundfront vacation home on Navarre Beach, between Pensacola Beach and Destin on Florida's Gulf Coast. Still have a question? Call us at 850-400-4105.

Is Stella Maris on the Gulf?

Stella Maris is directly on the Santa Rosa Sound, with sugar-white sand and calm, clear water just steps behind the home. It is ideal for paddleboarding, swimming, and all-day fun by the water. The Gulf is an 8 to 10 minute walk away, so you get both. Two Waters. One Stay.

How close is the Gulf beach?

The nearest public Gulf access is 0.4 miles away, an 8 to 10 minute walk. Enjoy the emerald water and waves, then come back to the peaceful Sound whenever you are ready. A beach wagon is waiting in the game room for chairs, umbrellas and coolers.

Does the Sound close on red flag days like the Gulf?

No. When high surf or double red flags limit Gulf swimming, the water behind Stella Maris usually stays calm and swimmable. Your week does not hinge on the surf report.

How many guests does Stella Maris sleep?

Up to 14. There are five bedrooms, each with its own en suite bath: three kings, a queen, and a bunk room with two twin-over-twin bunks built for the kids, plus a bonus room with a twin and trundle. With five full baths and two half baths, nobody shares and nobody waits.

What is the difference between the Sound and the Gulf?

The Gulf offers open shoreline and surf. The Sound offers gentle, swimmable water, fewer crowds, and sunset-facing views. Coffee on the Sound. Waves on the Gulf. Firelit sunsets by water at night. At Stella Maris you do not have to choose, you experience both.

Is the sand the same?

Yes. The same soft, sugar-white sand found on the Gulf side lines the Sound shoreline behind the home.

Can you hear the Gulf from the house?

Most days the setting is quiet and peaceful. On higher-surf or red flag days, depending on wind direction, you may hear waves in the distance, often when Gulf swimming is limited and the calm Sound is at its best.

What are the views like?

Because the home faces open water, the views feel wide and layered: 180-degree views of the Santa Rosa Sound north, west, and east; unobstructed sunrise and sunset; glimpses of the Gulf from the 3rd floor; the protected dunes of Gulf Islands National Seashore to the west; the high-rises of Pensacola Beach in the distance; and Navarre Beach and the Navarre Bridge to the east.

Is it easy to enjoy both beaches during our stay?

Very. Many guests spend mornings on the calm Sound, afternoons on the Gulf, and evenings back at the house by the fire pit on the Sound beach. Two waters. One stay. One place to make memories.

What water toys and beach gear are included?

One kayak, two paddleboards and a pedal boat, ready to launch from the backyard into the Sound. Beach chairs, umbrellas, Sun Ninja shade, beach towels, sand toys, life vests and a beach wagon for the walk to the Gulf are all provided.

Is there a pool?

Yes. Stella Maris sits in the private, gated By the Sea community, and guests have access to the community pool and hot tub.

How far is Pensacola Beach?

Pensacola Beach is about 45 minutes west of Stella Maris, a scenic drive along the island through Gulf Islands National Seashore. Condé Nast Traveler readers ranked Pensacola Beach #1 and Navarre Beach #2 in their 2025 Readers' Choice Awards, and Stella Maris sits between the two.

How far is Destin?

Destin is about 45 minutes east of Stella Maris along the Emerald Coast, an easy day trip for shopping, dining and the harbor.

What are check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is 4:00 PM Central and check-out is 10:00 AM Central.

Is there a minimum age to book?

Yes. The minimum rental age is 25. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent. This is a quiet residential neighborhood, so no parties or events.

Are pets allowed?

Pets may be considered case by case, under 20 lbs. Pre-approval is required and a $250 per pet fee applies.

Can I bring a boat?

Boat trailers are not permitted under HOA rules. A private mooring buoy is available for approved small guest watercraft.

Two Waters. One Stay.

Ready to plan your 2027 Gulf Coast getaway?