Public beach access is slim pickins in Destin. There are public beach parks where parking tends to fill up quickly and the smaller beaches can become quite crowded, especially those with restrooms and other conveniences. One recommendation is to stay at a place on the water so you have access to the beach right in front. Another option is to stay close to the water so you can walk or bike to the beach and not concern yourself with parking. Nonetheless, here’s my list of the best public beaches in Destin, as well as a map which includes additional beach access trails.
June White Decker Beach Park
- Size: Quarter-acre
- 70+ parking spaces
- Showers and restrooms
- Free
June White Decker Beach Park is a linear park providing beach access to the Gulf of Mexico from Scenic US Highway 98 adjacent to the Silver Shells Condominiums. This is a very small public beach area, but very clean with clear water and soft sugary white sand. Arrive early because it can get crowded quickly, due to its ample parking, proximity to many condos and dining destinations, and the fact that it’s free of charge. This small slice of beach is great for sunbathing, swimming, walking the beach, and to stay and enjoy the sunset.
Norriego Point Beach Park
- Size: 9 acres
- 27 parking spaces
- Showers
- $5 parking
Norriego Point Beach Park is a peninsula on Holiday Isle across from Destin Harbor, overlooking the east pass. This tranquil, white sandy beach offers clear blue waters for snorkeling as well as scenic views of the boats ocming and going. The park offers various amenities such as picnic areas, pavilions, restrooms, and parking facilities. Parking is limited, making this beach less crowded. Norriego Point is also a favorite spot for fishing, swimming, sunbathing, and thanks to the jetties, the calm water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Many opt to arrive by boat and anchor on the beach, which is a great option if you have access to one!
Shore at Crystal Beach Park
- 65 feet of coastline
- 9 parking spaces
- Restrooms, showers and a covered picnic area
- Free
Located next to Henderson State Park, The Shore at Crystal Beach Park offers white sand and crystal clear water. Get there early for ample parking and to catch the sunrise! Since there are only 5 parking spots, it’s a great place to visit if you can get here without a car, if you’re close enough to walk or bike, or if a rideshare makes more sense. Enjoy the small covered picnic area, and the convenience of restrooms and showers. Stick around for the sunset, as evenings tend to be less crowded.
Henderson Beach State Park
- Hours: 8 AM to sundown
- $6 per vehicle
- $2 per pedestrian or cyclist
- 300+ parking spaces
- Picnic areas, covered pavilions, restrooms
Henderson Beach State Park boasts over a mile of white sugar sand beaches and natural scenic shoreline. Crowds shouldn’t be an issue here as there is plenty of space to sprawl out. Boardwalks provide access to the beach for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets while relaxing by the warm crystal clear water of the Gulf of Mexico. . The park offers a wide range of amenities and recreational opportunities including campsites, nature trails for hiking and wildlife viewing, picnic areas with tables and grills, and pavilions for group gatherings. The park is renowned for its natural beauty, including sand dunes, coastal scrub habitat, and rare coastal dune lakes. These dune lakes are unique to the Gulf Coast and provide necessary habitat for a variety of wildlife species. Henderson Beach State Park is committed to preserving its natural resources and ecosystems. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and follow park regulations to help protect the park’s delicate coastal habitats.
*Note that effective July 24, 2024 the campground at Henderson Beach State Park will be closed for approximately six months for a construction project.
James Lee Park
- 3 pavilions
- 41 picnic tables
- 9 dune walkovers
- Playground
- Restrooms with changing rooms, showers
- 166 parking spaces
James Lee Park is a county beach park with over a quarter of a mile of sugar sand beach near the Walton/Okaloosa County line. Situated along Scenic Highway 98 in Destin, Florida, it is conveniently located near various accommodations, restaurants, and other attractions in the area. Enjoy the comfort of basic amenities including pavilions, picnic tables and restrooms with showers. The park offers beach access and the soft, powdery sand and gentle waves make it a popular spot for families and beachgoers of all ages. James Lee Park is sometimes referred to as ‘Crab Trap Beach’ for its proximity to this popular restaurant – here you can enjoy food and drink while on the beach.
Here I’ve mapped out these 5 public beach parks as well as additional public access points.
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