Mexico Beach FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Mexico Beach, Florida.
1. Mexico Beach
CLASSIC GULF COAST BEACH
Mexico Beach offers five miles of soft white sand and clear blue Gulf waters, creating a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Visitors enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, with the stunning sunsets being a daily highlight. The area is popular for snorkeling and diving due to its proximity to one of the largest artificial reefs in the world.
2. Canal Park
SCENIC WATERFRONT PARK
Canal Park is a local favorite located along the Intracoastal Waterway, providing a peaceful setting for fishing, kayaking, and launching boats directly into the canal. The park offers picnic areas and walking paths, making it ideal for families and nature lovers. Its tranquil waters and easy access to both the canal and the Gulf make it a sought-after waterfront retreat.
3. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
PRISTINE BARRIER PENINSULA
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is known for its untouched sugar-white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters along a long, narrow peninsula. The park boasts swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching in a serene, natural setting. Its remote ambiance and breathtaking coastal views make it a haven for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility.
4. Cape San Blas
FAMILY-FRIENDLY BEACH ESCAPE
Cape San Blas features pet-friendly sandy beaches, gentle waters, and a peaceful, laid-back vibe on a scenic peninsula. Activities include swimming, shelling, kayaking, and fishing, with the famous Cape San Blas Lighthouse nearby. Its natural beauty and uncrowded shoreline provide a perfect getaway for families and those seeking a slower pace.
5. St. Andrews State Park
DIVERSE BEACHFRONT ADVENTURE
St. Andrews State Park features two and a half miles of pristine beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and Grand Lagoon, offering swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The park also provides nature trails, fishing piers, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Its combination of oceanfront and lagoon settings makes it a versatile and vibrant destination for outdoor fun.
6. Shell Island
UNSPOILED NATURAL ISLAND
Shell Island is an undeveloped barrier island only accessible by boat, renowned for its untouched white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and observe dolphins in their natural habitat, or collect shells along the tranquil shore. Its remote, uncommercialized setting offers a truly wild and peaceful beach experience.
7. Crooked Island Beach
HIDDEN GEM HIDEAWAY
Crooked Island Beach is a secluded stretch of natural coastline south of Tyndall Air Force Base, cherished for its quiet atmosphere and unspoiled scenery. The beach is ideal for swimming, shelling, bird watching, and enjoying peaceful walks along the water. Its lack of crowds and commercial activity make it a perfect spot for solitude seekers.
8. Port St. Joe Beach
RELAXED BAYSIDE ESCAPE
Port St. Joe Beach stretches along the calm waters of St. Joseph Bay, offering a family-friendly environment with easy beach access. Visitors can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, and serene sunsets, with plenty of space for beach picnics and leisure. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it especially appealing for families with children.
9. Frank Pate Park
WATERSIDE COMMUNITY PARK
Frank Pate Park is set along the waterfront in Port St. Joe, featuring boat launches, fishing piers, and scenic green spaces right by the bay. The park is a gathering place for families who enjoy fishing, picnicking, and walks along the water's edge. Its relaxed vibe and convenient bay access make it an ideal spot for both recreation and relaxation.
10. Salinas Park Bayside
PEACEFUL BAYFRONT PARK
Salinas Park Bayside is nestled on St. Joseph Bay and offers a peaceful retreat with boardwalks, picnic shelters, and easy bay access for kayaking and paddleboarding. Families appreciate the calm, shallow waters and shaded picnic areas for relaxing by the water. The park's bayfront setting and amenities invite visitors to linger and take in the coastal scenery.