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
This is a very small public beach area, but very clean with clear water and white sand. Arrive early because it can get crowded quickly due to its proximity to many condos and dining destinations. 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. Parking is limited making this beach less crowded. 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!
Shores at Crystal Beach Park
- 65 feet of coastline
- 9 parking spaces
- Restrooms, showers and a covered picnic area
- Free
Shores offers white sand and crystal clear water. Get there early for ample parking and to catch the sunrise! 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. Stick around for the sunset, as evenings tend to be less crowded.
Henderson Beach
- 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. The park offers campsites and other amenities. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets while relaxing by the warm crystal clear water of the Gulf of Mexico.
James Lee Park
This is a county beach park with over a quarter of a mile of sugar sand beach near the Walton/Okaloosa County line.
- 3 pavilions
- 41 picnic tables
- 9 dune walkovers
- Playground
- Restrooms with changing rooms, showers
- 166 parking spaces
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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