Hampton FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Hampton, Florida.
1. Hampton Beach
LAKE WEIR FAMILY ESCAPE
Hampton Beach is a public swim beach nestled on the serene eastern shore of Lake Weir, providing a laid-back lakeside setting perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors enjoy a sandy beach, designated swimming areas, shaded picnic tables, and convenient restrooms, making it ideal for day trips and casual gatherings. Its unique appeal comes from the tranquil, uncrowded atmosphere and its history as a community-donated space open from early morning until evening during much of the year.
2. Lake Santa Fe Park
SHADED LAKEFRONT RECREATION
Lake Santa Fe Park offers a peaceful lakeside setting with a grassy shoreline shaded by oaks and pines, located at one of North Florida's premier all-sports lakes. It features a swimming area, fishing pier, boat ramp, and picnic pavilions, welcoming visitors to swim, boat, and enjoy water sports. The park's natural beauty and public access draw families, anglers, and boaters year-round.
3. Gold Head Branch State Park
SPRING-FED SWIMMING LAKE
Gold Head Branch State Park features Little Lake Johnson, a spring-fed lake with a sandy swimming area and scenic lakeshore surrounded by classic Florida pine forests. The park offers swimming, kayaking, fishing, and hiking trails, with picnic spots and day-use facilities for visitors. Its unique appeal lies in its peaceful natural setting and clean, clear water that make it a favorite for families and outdoor adventurers.
4. Blue Springs Park
NATURAL SPRING SWIMMING
Blue Springs Park is known for its crystal-clear freshwater spring and sandy-bottomed swimming area, set amid lush woods and limestone bluffs. The spring offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and tubing, with picnic tables and shaded areas enhancing the experience. The unique charm comes from its pristine water, abundant wildlife, and laid-back, natural vibe.
5. Little Orange Creek Nature Park
CREEKSIDE LEISURE AREA
Little Orange Creek Nature Park provides peaceful access to Little Orange Creek, with scenic trails, boardwalks, and a creekside spot for cooling off or wading. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, light paddling, and nature picnics, all set in a quiet, forested environment. Its appeal comes from the tranquil, lesser-known setting and family-friendly amenities.
6. Santa Fe Lake Park
WATER SPORTS AND SUNSETS
Santa Fe Lake Park offers grassy shoreline and sandy beach areas with public swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities on the expansive Santa Fe Lake. The park boasts a boat ramp, dock, picnic facilities, and spots for sunset views, creating a versatile destination for water recreation. The combination of open lake access and peaceful surroundings makes it a popular option for families and water lovers.
7. Rum Island Springs County Park
SPRING RUN SWIMMING HOLE
Rum Island Springs County Park features a clear, cool spring that flows directly into the Santa Fe River, offering a shaded swimming hole surrounded by towering trees. The park caters to swimmers, paddlers, and picnickers with easy access to the spring and river, as well as picnic facilities. The park's rustic setting and refreshing water attract those seeking a classic North Florida spring experience.
8. Keystone Beach
CLASSIC LAKESIDE BEACH
Keystone Beach is a sandy, tree-lined public beach on Lake Geneva, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and lakeside relaxation. The park includes volleyball courts, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and seasonal events, making it a gathering spot for locals and visitors. Its classic small-town charm and welcoming amenities set it apart as a family-friendly waterfront destination.
9. Poe Springs Park
BROAD SPRING AND BEACH
Poe Springs Park boasts one of Alachua County's largest freshwater springs, with a sandy beach area and a spacious spring run for swimming and floating. Visitors can picnic under sprawling trees, launch kayaks, and explore walking trails in a scenic rural setting. The park's wide spring basin and natural beauty make it a popular escape on hot summer days.
10. Lake Butler Beach
QUIET FAMILY SWIM SPOT
Lake Butler Beach offers a small, sandy public beach with shallow water access along Lake Butler, providing a safe and peaceful spot for families with children. The beach area includes picnic tables and is close to downtown Lake Butler, making it a convenient summer retreat. Visitors appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and easy swimming access in a friendly, local setting.