Crestview FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Crestview, Florida.
1. Okaloosa Island Boardwalk
BUSTLING BEACHFRONT HUB
Okaloosa Island Boardwalk offers a lively oceanfront escape with sugar-white sands and emerald waters perfect for swimming, volleyball, and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy dining, shopping, and regular free community events right by the beach, creating a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere. The combination of wide beaches, amenities, and entertainment makes this spot a favorite for both relaxation and activity seekers.
2. John Beasley Park
SPACIOUS FAMILY BEACH
John Beasley Park features an expansive stretch of sand along the Gulf of Mexico, offering pavilions, food vendors, and restrooms for a convenient day by the water. With ample parking, seasonal lifeguards, and easy access, it's a laid-back destination ideal for families and groups. Its relaxed vibe, practical facilities, and scenic beauty make it stand out among local beaches.
3. Emerald Promenade Beachwalk (Beach Access #7)
QUIET SCENIC RETREAT
Emerald Promenade Beachwalk on Okaloosa Island is a tranquil beach access point featuring a pavilion, grill, restrooms, and plenty of parking, all just steps from the Gulf's turquoise waters. It is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed experience with basic but appreciated amenities. The site is open daily from sunrise to sunset, providing a peaceful spot for picnics, swimming, and unwinding.
4. Sheashore Beachwalk (Beach Access #3)
PICNIC-FRIENDLY SHORELINE
Sheashore Beachwalk offers direct access to the Gulf with two pavilions, grills, and picnic tables, making it ideal for beachside meals and gatherings. Visitors can take advantage of restrooms and a borrow bin to make their outing comfortable and sustainable. The easygoing atmosphere and excellent facilities encourage guests to spend a full day enjoying the sand and surf.
5. Navarre Beach
SERENE COASTAL GEM
Navarre Beach is renowned for its peaceful ambiance, sugar-white sand, and crystal-clear Gulf waters ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and shoreline walks. The area provides spacious public access, and opportunities for fishing and paddleboarding. With its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty, this destination is a favorite for families and solitude seekers alike.
6. Bay Forest Retreat
RIVERSIDE OASIS
Bay Forest Retreat is a wooded riverside campground that invites guests to swim, paddle, and relax beside tranquil freshwater streams and small sandy banks. This peaceful setting is a hidden gem for those who enjoy camping, birdwatching, and water play in a natural forested environment. Its blend of forest and water access makes it a unique escape from the bustle of city life.
7. The Wandering Path
SECLUDED FOREST BEACH
The Wandering Path offers a collection of cozy camping sites nestled near freshwater swimming holes and wooded trails, perfect for cooling off and exploring nature. With options for tents and small groups, this destination is prized for its quiet charm and serenity. It's an excellent choice for those looking to combine camping with lakeside or riverside recreation.
8. 30A Bay Hideaway
HIDDEN BAYFRONT ESCAPE
30A Bay Hideaway features calm bay waters, a private-feeling shoreline, and opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in a lush coastal setting. The peaceful atmosphere and well-kept amenities make it a perfect spot for a tranquil waterfront retreat. Its location off scenic Highway 30A ensures easy access to both nature and charming coastal communities.
9. Okaloosa Island Numbered Beach Accesses
SIMPLE SANDY BOARDWALKS
Okaloosa Island's numbered beach accesses are scattered along the shoreline, each offering a strip of pristine sand, parking, and seasonal lifeguards. These no-frills sites are ideal for those wanting a simple, uncrowded spot for swimming and sunbathing. Pack a cooler and snacks, as these access points offer minimal amenities for a relaxed, bring-your-own-fun experience.
10. Destin Public Beach Access
VIBRANT GULF SHORE
Destin's public beaches deliver dazzling white sands and emerald-clear Gulf waters, perfect for swimming, shelling, and water sports. Multiple accessible points dot the shoreline, each with incredible views and a lively but welcoming environment. These beaches are famous for their scenic beauty and wide appeal to both families and adventure seekers.