Henderson Beach
Pristine Coastal Paradise with Sugar-White Sands
About Henderson Beach
Henderson Beach State Park offers a serene 200-acre natural escape along Destin’s Emerald Coast, featuring over 6,000 feet of pristine shoreline with powdery white sand beaches meeting crystal-clear Gulf waters. This protected coastal sanctuary showcases Florida’s natural beauty with rare coastal scrub ecosystems, sand dunes, and native wildlife. Visitors can enjoy swimming in emerald waters, hiking nature trails, fishing, picnicking under pavilions, or camping among the dunes. The park perfectly balances recreational amenities with natural preservation, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Mile-Long Pristine White Sand Beach
- Protected Coastal Dune Ecosystem
- Family-Friendly Amenities and Camping
- Scenic Nature Trail with Wildlife Viewing
Henderson Beach State Park
Henderson Beach State Park is conveniently located at 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway (Highway 98) in Destin, Florida. The park is easily accessible and well-marked with clear signage.
- By Car – The main entrance is directly off Highway 98 (Emerald Coast Parkway), approximately 1.5 miles east of the Destin Commons shopping center. Ample parking is available for a daily fee.
- By Bicycle – Bike paths run along parts of Highway 98, making cycling to the park possible from nearby accommodations.
- By Rideshare – Uber and Lyft service the area and can provide drop-off and pick-up at the park entrance.
- From Vacation Rentals – Many Destin vacation properties are within walking or short driving distance of the park, especially those along Scenic Highway 98.
What to do at Henderson Beach
Beach Swimming and Sunbathing
Enjoy the park's main attraction – a mile-long stretch of sugar-white sand beach with emerald green waters. The protected shoreline offers excellent swimming conditions with lifeguards stationed during peak season. Relax on the soft sand, take a refreshing dip in the Gulf, or simply enjoy the spectacular sunset views over the water.
Hiking the Nature Trail
Explore the park's scenic three-quarter mile nature trail that winds through pristine coastal dune ecosystems. This pet-friendly, ADA-accessible boardwalk path offers educational signage about native flora and fauna, including rare and endangered plant species. Watch for wildlife sightings, particularly shore birds and small dune-dwelling creatures, as you experience one of Florida's last remaining coastal scrub communities.
Fishing Along the Shoreline
Cast a line from the beach into the productive waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The park is known for excellent surf fishing opportunities with species like pompano, redfish, flounder, and whiting commonly caught. Remember to bring your Florida fishing license and appropriate gear. The artificial reefs just offshore enhance fishing prospects throughout the year.
Family Picnicking
Gather the family for a memorable outdoor meal at one of the park's six picnic pavilions, complete with grills and tables. The pavilions overlook either the Gulf or the dune lake, providing scenic backdrops for your gathering. Children will love the playground that features Gulf views, making this an ideal spot for family recreation while keeping everyone entertained.
Is the Henderson Beach State Park campground currently open?
Experience the ultimate park immersion by staying at one of 60 campsites nestled within the secondary dune system. Sites include water and electric hookups, with access to air-conditioned bathhouse facilities. The campground features its own beach access boardwalk, outdoor showers, and a playground. Fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up just steps from the beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Henderson Beach State Park?
Henderson Beach State Park is open from 8:00 AM until sundown, 365 days a year. Campers planning to arrive after sunset should call the park at 850-837-7550 to get the gate combination and instructions.
What are the admission fees for Henderson Beach State Park?
Admission fees are $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicles, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers in vehicles with holders of Annual Individual Entrance Passes.
Can I reserve a Henderson Beach State Park picnic pavilion for my group?
Picnic pavilions can be rented for $100 per day plus tax. However, due to heavy visitation, pavilions cannot be reserved during the daytime from May through September. For reservation information, call 850-837-7550.
Can I bring my pet to Henderson Beach State Park?
Yes, the park has a restricted pet policy that allows leashed pets only in designated areas. While dogs are welcome on the nature trail, they must remain on a 6-foot leash and under supervision at all times. Pets are prohibited from the beach, playground area, and all park buildings. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals. Service animals are exempt from these restrictions and are permitted throughout the park.
Are there restrooms and shower facilities at Henderson Beach State Park?
Yes, the park offers clean restroom facilities and outdoor showers near the beach access points. Campers have access to additional air-conditioned and heated bathhouse facilities with hot showers in the campground area when the campground is open.
Are there discounts available for Desitn residents?
Destin residents living within city limits can purchase a discounted annual beach pass for $30, valid for the entire calendar year at Henderson Beach State Park only. Alternatively, residents can buy a Florida State Parks Annual Pass and receive a $30 rebate from the city, essentially making it free.
Seniors 65 and older who live in Destin qualify for a further reduced rate of $25. Proof of residency is required when purchasing these passes, which are available at Destin City Hall or the Destin Community Center. A similar rebate program exists for pedestrian/bicycle annual passes.
