Destin Beaches and Parks
Beach Access
There are twelve public beach access points within the city limits of Destin. The majority are city facilities with one site for the county, and one site for the state. Visit the City of Destin website for a map of beach access points.
Please note: Dogs are not allowed on Okaloosa County/City of Destin beaches.
Beach Safety
Florida uses a beach flag warning system. Please watch for posted signs and warnings.
DOUBLE RED - Water is CLOSED for Public Use.
RED - High Hazard, Rough conditions such as strong surf and/or currents.
YELLOW - Medium Hazard, Light surf and/or currents.
GREEN - Low Hazard, Calm Conditions.
PURPLE - Marine Pests, Jellyfish, stingrays, and other fish may be present.
You can learn everything you need to know about beach safety from the Florida Department of Health including safe swimming, water quality, marine life, and tanning and skin protection.
Henderson Beach State Park
Pristine white sugar sand beaches and more than 6,000 feet of natural scenic shoreline border the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Natural features of the park include sand pines, scrub oaks, and dune rosemary. Boardwalks provide access to the beach for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Two large pavilions allow for picnicking and grilling.
A playground is the first stop on our nature trail and is sure to be a success with the kids. The nature trail provides visitors a rare glimpse of the coastal dune ecosystem and abundant wildlife and is pet friendly. Henderson Beach is A.D.A accessible and includes beach wheel chair availability. Visitors can enjoy truly breathtaking sunsets while relaxing by the warm crystal clear water of the Gulf of Mexico.
Henderson Beach State Park is located just east of the city of Destin on U.S.98.
Address: 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway Destin, FL 32541
Phone: (850) 837-7550
For additional information including hours and fees visit the Florida Online Park Guide. There, you can also find other state parks in Northwest Florida.
Bird Viewing
There are many different types of birds to watch at the beach including sandpipers, herons, egrets, and pelicans. Learn what you can do to help keep them safe.
Sea Turtles
Sea turtles are protected by the U.S. Endangered Species Act and State Law. Between the months of April and November, sea turtles come ashore to nest on the gulf beaches of Okaloosa County. It is illegal to kill or harm sea turtles or to disturb their nests. Visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website for information on how you can help.
The materials on this website are provided for general purposes only. Please verify all locations, events, times, prices, etc., with appropriate vendors or sponsors when planning your trip.
