Henderson Beach State Park, located in Destin, Florida, is a 200-acre coastal haven renowned for its sugar-white sands, emerald waters, and preserved natural beauty. Recognized among the top 25 beaches in the U.S. , this park offers a tranquil escape along the Emerald Coast.
🏖️ Natural Beauty & Beach Access
- The park boasts over 6,000 feet of scenic shoreline, framed by 30-foot sand dunes and crystal-clear Gulf waters. Boardwalks provide easy access to the beach, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The beach is also wheelchair accessible.
🌿 Nature Trails & Wildlife
- A 0.75-mile nature trail winds through coastal scrub habitats, featuring sand pines, scrub oaks, and dune rosemary. This trail offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation, showcasing some of the last remaining endangered coastal scrub communities in the Florida panhandle.
🏕️ Camping & Facilities
- The park offers 60 campsites, each equipped with water, electricity, a ground grill, and a picnic table. These sites are a short walk from the beach and are pet-friendly. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.
- Additional amenities include six pavilions for picnicking and grilling, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a playground.
🎣 Activities & Rentals
- Visitors can enjoy surf fishing along the quiet beaches. For equipment, local shops like Half Hitch Tackle and Bass Pro Shop in Destin Commons offer rentals and bait.
📍 Location & Hours
- Address:
- 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, FL
- Hours:
- Open daily from 8:00 AM to sundown
- Admission:
- $6 per vehicle
Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
