Destin FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Destin, Florida.
1. Henderson Beach State Park
PRISTINE WHITE-SAND PARADISE
Henderson Beach State Park boasts over a mile of pristine white-sand beach with turquoise waters flanked by scenic boardwalks and nature trails through tranquil dunes. The park offers comprehensive amenities including over 300 parking spaces, beach wheelchairs, covered picnic pavilions, restroom facilities, grills, and accessible campsites. Visitors can enjoy peaceful picnics and relaxation while immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Destin's coastline.
2. June White Decker Beach Park
CONVENIENT BEACHSIDE RETREAT
June White Decker Beach Park offers a convenient beach escape spanning approximately 0.29 acres with modern facilities for visitors. The park features over 70 parking spaces, shower facilities, and restrooms to enhance the beach experience. Beachgoers can enjoy the crystal clear waters and white sand that Destin is famous for in this well-maintained public access point.
3. Norriego Point Beach Park
SCENIC HARBOR PENINSULA
Norriego Point Beach Park sits between the Destin Harbor and the East Pass access to the Gulf of Mexico, spanning approximately 9.27 acres with 27 parking spaces and shower facilities. The area features beautiful sand dunes, sea oats, and wooden fences that make for stunning photo backdrops, while also offering protected water inlets with calm swimming areas on the East Pass side. This popular destination attracts boaters who beach their vessels along the shore, as well as kayakers and paddleboarders, with a Water Taxi stop providing convenient access to and from anywhere on Destin harbor.
4. James Lee Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY BEACH HAVEN
James Lee Park is a county beach park offering over a quarter mile of beachfront near the Walton/Okaloosa County line. The park is equipped with 3 pavilions, 41 picnic tables, 9 dune walkovers, a playground, restrooms with changing rooms, showers, and over 100 parking spaces. Families can enjoy the full beach experience with ample amenities and space for recreation and relaxation.
5. Crystal Sands Beach
EMERALD WATERS, SUGAR SAND
Crystal Sands Beach delights visitors with its sugar-white sand and striking emerald green waters. This beach showcases the natural beauty that has made Destin a top destination for beach enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the pristine shoreline while taking in the spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico.
6. Tarpon Beach
DESTIN'S NEWEST SHORELINE
Tarpon Beach is Destin's newest beach acquisition, featuring over 340 feet of beachfront already enjoyed by many visitors. Development plans include the addition of a pavilion and restrooms to enhance the beach experience. This growing attraction provides another beautiful spot to enjoy Destin's famous white sands and clear waters.
7. Shore at Crystal Beach Park
INTIMATE BEACHFRONT ESCAPE
Shore at Crystal Beach Park offers approximately 65 feet of intimate beachfront with 9 parking spaces, restrooms, showers, and a covered picnic area. The small but well-equipped park provides a less crowded option for enjoying Destin's beautiful coastline. Visitors can relax and enjoy the crystal clear waters in this cozy beachside retreat.
8. Calhoun Beach Access
SIMPLE SEASIDE GATEWAY
Calhoun Beach Access provides visitors with a straightforward entry point to Destin's renowned white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. This public access point allows beachgoers to enjoy the natural beauty of the Gulf coastline. Visitors can spend long days soaking up the sun and enjoying the waves at this convenient beach entrance.
9. Shirah Street Beach Access
LOCAL'S FAVORITE SHORELINE
Shirah Street Beach Access offers a public entry point to Destin's beautiful Gulf beaches and emerald waters. This access point provides locals and tourists alike with the opportunity to experience Destin's famous shoreline. Beachgoers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities in this picturesque coastal setting.
10. O'steen Public Beach Access
GATEWAY TO GULF WATERS
O'steen Public Beach Access serves as a gateway to Destin's spectacular Gulf of Mexico beaches and crystal-clear waters. This public access point allows visitors to easily reach the shoreline for a day of sun and surf. Beach enthusiasts can enjoy the pristine environment that has made Destin a world-renowned beach destination.