Wausau FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Wausau, Florida.
1. Holmes Creek at Cotton Landing
SPRING-FED CREEK ESCAPE
Holmes Creek at Cotton Landing offers a serene riverside retreat just outside Wausau, featuring crystal-clear spring-fed waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. Shaded by cypress and tupelo trees, this peaceful spot is beloved for its natural beauty, accessible launch areas, and opportunities for paddling adventure. Wildlife lovers enjoy the chance to spot birds and turtles, while families appreciate the calm, shallow areas perfect for wading and relaxing.
2. Blue Spring Recreation Area
NATURAL SWIMMING HOLE
Blue Spring Recreation Area is a popular destination near Wausau, offering a large, spring-fed swimming hole with refreshing turquoise waters. Visitors enjoy the picturesque setting, picnic areas, and the chance to swim or snorkel in the clear, cool spring. The park is well-suited for family gatherings and provides kayak rentals, making it a favorite for both relaxation and water activities.
3. Econfina Creek Canoe Livery
WILD CREEK ADVENTURES
Econfina Creek Canoe Livery is a gateway to one of Northwest Florida's most scenic water trails, known for its winding, spring-fed creek surrounded by lush forest. Adventurers can rent kayaks or canoes and explore the cool, clear waters, passing by numerous springs and sandy banks ideal for a riverside picnic or swim. The unique karst landscape and abundant wildlife make it a standout destination for those seeking a natural escape.
4. Wakulla Springs State Park
HISTORIC SPRINGS OASIS
Wakulla Springs State Park boasts one of the world's largest and deepest freshwater springs, inviting guests to swim in designated areas or embark on glass-bottom boat tours. The park's Spanish-moss-draped cypress trees and historic lodge create a timeless atmosphere for swimming, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. With its manatees, alligators, and unique natural history, Wakulla Springs offers a classic Florida swimming and sightseeing experience.
5. St. Andrews State Park
GULF COAST BEACHFRONT
St. Andrews State Park features miles of sugar-white sand beach along the Gulf of Mexico, as well as calm, family-friendly swimming in its protected Grand Lagoon. The park offers a range of water activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing, along with nature trails and picnic spots. Its varied habitats and abundant marine life make it a top pick for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
6. Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
PRISTINE SPRING SWIMMING
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park provides a clear and chilly spring-fed swimming area nestled under tall trees, perfect for cooling off on hot days. The park is family-friendly, with shaded picnic areas, nature trails, and easy access to the spring pool. Its constant 68-degree water and tranquil setting offer a refreshing, classic North Florida swimming experience.
7. Grayton Beach State Park
COASTAL LAKE AND BEACH
Grayton Beach State Park is famed for its pristine gulf shoreline and rare coastal dune lake, offering swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing in both salt and freshwater. Its scenic, undeveloped beach invites long walks on soft, white sand, while the park also provides amenities like camping and nature trails. Visitors enjoy the blend of beachscape and lake, making it a versatile retreat for water recreation.
8. Big Lagoon State Park
ESTUARY AND BEACH ACCESS
Big Lagoon State Park encompasses saltwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and sandy beaches along the Intracoastal Waterway. The park offers swimming, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, with observation towers that provide sweeping views of the estuary and Gulf Islands. Its tranquil environment and easy water access make it ideal for nature lovers and families seeking a peaceful day outdoors.
9. Camp Helen State Park
LAKEFRONT AND GULF ACCESS
Camp Helen State Park sits between Lake Powell, one of Florida's largest coastal dune lakes, and the Gulf of Mexico, offering a secluded beach and unique brackish water swimming. The park features hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas in a scenic, historic setting. Its rare combination of freshwater lake and Gulf beach distinguishes it as a multifaceted waterfront escape.
10. Deer Lake State Park
SECLUDED DUNE LAKE BEACH
Deer Lake State Park is known for its quiet, untouched beaches and the coastal dune lake that borders the Gulf's emerald waters. Visitors enjoy hiking the boardwalks, swimming in the gentle surf, and experiencing the unique ecosystem where lake and sea meet. Its peaceful, natural setting makes it a hidden gem among Florida's panhandle beaches.