Destin State Parks

Nature Lovers Rejoice

Posted on 1/14/2011

Locals in Destin say that when God created the beauty and bounty of the Emerald Coast, He spent a little more time here. That story seems self-evident.  Destin, known as "the luckiest fishing village in the world" due to its bountiful waters, is also known for the natural beauty bestowed upon its pristine sugar white beaches and emerald toned waters! The five mile drive to Destin from the west, across Okaloosa Island on the Gulf Island's National Seashore, serves as a gateway to paradise. This narrow isthmus is bordered by Choctawhatchee Bay to the north with five mile views across to the mainland and the Gulf of Mexico to the south with unlimited views to the horizon. Many hearty visitors park their cars here along Highway 98, grab some coolers and hike over to the beach at various access points along the way. There are no bathroom facilities or showers here but the unspoiled, natural beauty provides a full, rustic day of beach adventure.


For a more "civilized" beach outing, Destin has two more Florida State Parks to choose from. They are both just as gorgeous as the other, plus they come with basic amenities!  For the nature lover, Henderson Beach State Park is located on Emerald Coast Parkway with over 6,000 linear feet of pristine shore. Pure white, soft sand and jewel toned waters are abundantly available there as part of nature's gift of nurture.

The park is conveniently located across from nearby stores where you can stock up on picnic supplies and cold drinks.  Admission is only $6 per car, which is a bargain since it covers an entire day of pleasure in paradise. You can also come and go throughout the day with your receipt.  Beach access is provided by a boardwalk that runs to the water between protected dunes covered with Sea Oats that sway in the ocean breeze. This boardwalk is even accessible for wheelchairs and those who may be ambulatory. Clean bathrooms, dressing areas, vending machines and shower facilities are available as well, with a friendly staff there to maintain them. There are two large, covered Picnic Pavilions with multiple tables and charcoal grills which overlook the nearby emerald green toned waters of the Gulf.  These pavilions may be reserved as rentals for private parties, family reunions or even special beach weddings, (which have become increasingly popular), from early September until the end of May. Besides sunning, swimming and water games, many flock here to go snorkeling due to the clarity of the water. Fishing is also popular along the beach with catches of Red Fish, Flounder and Pompano!

A ¾ mile nature trail meanders through the protected ecosystem complete with migratory birds, native species, natural grasses, wildflowers and even colorful butterflies which are particularly plentiful during the Autumn months.  Leashed pets are permitted on the trail but be sure you have your baggy with you to clean up after your dog. (They are not allowed on the beach itself however, for obvious reasons.) There is a large dune centered near the nature trail which is the remnant of an old World War II bunker, previously used to help spot enemy submarines!  Today, the dune allows you to get a 360 degree view of the park from just a few feet up. It is a perfect place to view the awesome, breathtaking sunsets that occur over the Gulf waters during the Winter months. During the Summer Season, a large art festival is held here along the main parking lot and adjacent areas.

Another gem of a state park in Destin is even more "civilized" since it even includes an onsite restaurant and bar! Known as the James Lee State park, it is located along Scenic Gulf Dirve in an opulent setting. The beach has no admission fee yet it is nestled among multimillion dollar mansions in the heart of Destiny, one of Destin's most prestigious preplanned communities.  It has a pampered, exclusive feel as a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors alike. Ocean Reef is proud to have many beach homes and luxury condos available for our guests nearby for easy access. You can enjoy a magnificent walk here along the beach from many locations.

The James Lee State Park itself includes three large pavilions that accommodate over forty picnic tables, a long boardwalk, nine beach walkovers, restrooms, showers and almost 200 parking spaces. There is a playground for the kid's right on the beach as well as volley ball set ups for fun. The entire park is perched upon some gentle dunes that overlook the beach below. They have been recently restored with Sea Oats, native grasses, and even a few wildflowers.

Rising out of the center of the boardwalk is the main anchor of this park, which is a huge pavilion-like restaurant, called The Crab Trap. This charming, almost Victorian styled building, complete with wrap around decks, looks like it was built over 100 years ago in a golden time gone by. In reality, it was first completed in the 1980s, then again in the 1990s, then recently in 2005.  It has survived two hurricanes and one fire. Obviously persistence pays, because it is still here today as a popular landmark icon that happens to serve food!  The cream colored, clapboard siding has big open air windows with spectacular views of the green toned surf along the powder white sands on its rim. (And I'm not talking about their special Margaritas, but the views!) The interior of The Crab Trap has a very down home, beach atmosphere complete with sun bleached wood paneling and large hand carved sea sculptures, including fish. In fact, if you want to see what one of the fish on the menu looks like "in real life", just check out the wall! They specialize in fresh seafood along with signature dishes which include a delicious She Crab Soup and Hot Crab Dip. There is also a Tiki bar right on the beach serving cold beer, wine and of course Margaritas or other frozen tropical drinks. However, nothing really compares to this fantastic location and the views of all the beautiful people soaking up the rays or enjoying the surf.

Here at Ocean Reef, we are so glad that "a little extra time" was spent here to create a special kind of beach. It is our distinct pleasure to offer a variety of Destin Vacation Rentals along this piece of paradise.

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