boardwalk heading down to the beach in destin

Your Guide to Beach Access Points in Destin and Beyond

September 2, 2024

If you’ve ever visited Destin during the shoulder seasons, you might have been pleasantly surprised with the mild weather, quiet beaches, and fewer crowds. You also may have noticed that finding a parking spot was a breeze! However, when the town transforms into a hub of activity during spring and summer, finding daily and overnight parking or a place in the sand becomes a little more challenging.

No need to let the search for beach access dampen your spirits! We’ve got the scoop on navigating your way to the perfect patch of sand, no matter what time of year!

Timing Your Visit for Optimal Parking

Timing is everything when it comes to enjoying the beach. While many flock to the shore during the peak hours of the day, savvy beachgoers know that some of the best experiences often happen outside the hours of 10-2. Mornings and late afternoons offer unique opportunities to soak up the sun without the crowds. Not only will you find ample parking, but you’ll also enjoy cooler temperatures and a more serene atmosphere!

Public Beach Access Points in Destin

With a dozen public beach access points, you’ll have no problem getting your toes in the sand within minutes of your arrival! While each location offers quick and easy access to our sugar-white sands, amenities can vary widely. Some areas provide convenient parking, refreshing showers, and clean restrooms, while others may offer limited facilities. Here’s a rundown on where to access the beach and what you’ll find when you arrive!

West Destin Beach Access Points

Norriego Point Beach Access | Gulf Shore Drive 🅿️🚿

Norriego Point offers calm waters, gorgeous Destin harbor bridge views, parking, and outdoor showers.

O’Steen Beach Access | Gulf Shore Drive 🅿️🚿

If you’re looking for a place to escape the crowds, this quiet beach offers seclusion, limited street parking, and an outdoor shower.

Calhoun Beach Access | 7th Street & Scenic 98 🅿️🚿🚻

Located near the Back Porch restaurant, this access point features nearby parking, public restrooms, and outdoor showers.

June White Decker Park | 1950 Scenic Hwy 98 🅿️🚿🚻

With a large parking lot, outdoor showers, and bathrooms, this spot offers a more full-service experience near Restaurant Row.

Silver Shells Beach Access | Scenic Hwy 98 🅿️🚿🚻

Located adjacent to June White Deck Park, this access point offers a quiet beach with shared facilities, including a bathroom, outdoor showers, and a large parking lot.

Central Destin Beach Access Points

Henderson Beach State Park | 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway 🅿️🚿🚻

A minimal entrance fee offers pristine beauty and an incredible stretch of sand. It’s a fun place for the whole family, with a large parking area, a boardwalk, a play area, outdoor showers, and nature trails!

East Destin Beach Access Points

Shirah Street Beach Access | Shirah Street & Hwy 98 🅿️🚿

A popular spot for those staying on the eastern end of Destin, you’ll find a small parking lot and an outdoor shower near the sandy shores.

The Shores at Crystal Beach Access | 2966 Scenic Highway 98 🅿️🚿🚻

Although parking is limited, this beautiful beach facility offers well-maintained public restrooms, an outdoor shower, and picnic tables under a covered pavilion.

Crystal Beach Drive Beach Access | Crystal Beach Drive & Hwy 98

For a more intimate beach experience, opt for this beach access point in the idyllic Crystal Beach community. Although you’ll find limited street parking, this location offers no showers or bathroom facilities.

Barracuda Street Beach Access | Barracuda & Hwy 98

Located just east of the Crystal Beach Drive access, this is another beach access option with limited street parking. The short walk rewards generously with gorgeous views and a pristine beach.

Tarpon Street Beach Access | Tarpon Street & Hwy 98 🅿️

Located one block east of Tarpon Street, this access point offers limited parking but promises fewer crowds. While it provides easy beach access, the walk and staircase to the beach may be challenging for those with physical limitations.

James Lee Park Public Beach Access | 3510 Scenic Hwy 98 🅿️🚿🚻

Located on old Highway 98 by The Crab Trap, Destin’s largest public beach access area boasts several covered pavilions with picnic areas, a playground, restrooms, showers, and over 150+ parking spaces.

Beach Access Points West of Destin

Fort Walton Beach, our close coastal cousin, is just a short drive west of Destin. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning shoreline, this lively community attracts visitors year-round. The journey from Destin to Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach offers several convenient beach access points along Highway 98!

Eglin Beach Park—This private beach, reserved for military and DoD visitors, federal employees, and veterans, boasts ample amenities, including parking (for a minimal fee), restrooms, showers, and a large covered pavilion. 🅿️🚿🚻
Princess Beach Access Point—A bit of a hike and limited roadside parking, but this local favorite offers nature, solitude, and sheer bliss.
Matterhorn Beach Access Point—Located next to Princess Beach, this area also requires a walk, so pack lightly or come with your crew to help carry all your beach accessories!

Beach Access Points East of Destin

Destin’s eastern neighbor, Miramar Beach, boasts a beautiful and accessible stretch of coastline. This beachside community offers an ideal blend of relaxation and excitement, with pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and a lively culinary scene. If you’re planning a day at the beach, here’s where to go!

Miramar Beach Regional Access | 2375 Scenic Gulf Drive 🅿️🚿🚻

This popular location offers plenty of parking, showers, and seasonal lifeguards. This beautiful location also offers ADA-accessible parking, restrooms, and a boardwalk to the beach.

Scenic Gulf Drive | 907 Scenic Gulf Drive 🅿️🚻

Just a mile and a half up the road lies another access point with 18 vehicle parking spaces and nine golf cart spaces. Bathrooms and bike parking are also available, alongside a picnic pavilion and a dune walkover to the beach.

Where to Stay When Visiting Destin

No matter where you choose to hit the beach, rest assured you’ll be nearby when you stay with Scenic Stays. Offering gorgeous vacation rentals throughout Destin and beyond, we’re your perfect home base for exploring the Emerald Coast!