Everything you need to know to plan an amazing trip to Henderson Beach State Park in Destin, Florida! Camping, Things to do, Photos and video, accessibility, and more!
Henderson Beach State Park
My Husband was a park ranger for 20 years so we have spent a lot of time exploring state and national parks. I have to say that Henderson Beach State Park is one of the prettiest state parks we have visited.
The 30-foot tall snow white sand dunes leading up to the gorgeous crystal clear Gulf waters are pretty dang amazing.
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White Sand Beach
The highlight of Henderson State Park is the gorgeous beach and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico.
If you plan on going swimming in the turqoise green waters of the Gulf of Mexico please make sure you check the beach warning flags to know if there are any hazards, high surf, or stinging marine life.
The Gulf of Mexico can have powerful rip currents that not even the strongest swimmers can manage. Please follow beach flags and understand the surf conditions. Take note of the colored flag system and know that red flags are dangerous conditions.
I can't stress this enough as a local to the area. We sadly hear about to many people ignoring the beach flags and ending up in potentially deadly situations.
Most days the warm crystal clear water of the Gulf of Mexico is great to swim in. You want to make sure that you are aware of current conditions.
There is an elevated boardwalk over the sand dunes to reach the shoreline. This is a great opportunity to get a rare glimpse of the coastal dune ecosystem without having to worry about damaging it.
You can rinse off with the outdoor showers along the boardwalk.
Nature Trail
There is a ¾ mile pet-friendly trail that meanders through shifting sand dunes and coastal scrub.
One really cool thing to know is the sand dunes are always shifting so everytime you walk the trail it may be a little different.
Please do not walk directly on the dunes! This can cause them to crumble and erode. The dune ecosystem is fragile!
Some of the sand dunes in the park are almost 30-feet tall. The nature trail leads you through both sand dunes and coastal scrub habitat. Look for myrtle oaks, Choctawhatchee sand pines, and Sand live oaks in the scrub habitat.
The natural features of the park are truly amazing!
Picnicking
There are six pavillions within the park perfect for a picnic! The pavillions have barbecue grills, picnic tables, and three restroom facilities.
The picnic shelters are a great break from the hot Florida panhandle sun!
The park picnic pavillions can be rented for weddings, special events, and reunions.
Wildlife and Bird Watching
While enjoying the park keep an eye out for wading shorebirds along with marine wildlife.
You may see dolphins, sea turtles, and fun fish as you enjoy the park. There are also rabbits, bobcats, and gopher tortoise occassionally seen by lucky visitors.
Henderson Beach State Park Camping
The campground and 60 campsites are currently being rehabilitated.
The campground can accommodate tent camping along with RVs. The sites have water, electric hookups (30 and 50 amp service), picnic tables, Fire rings with ground grill, and a clothesline post.
RV maximum length is 60 feet. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.
There is a dump station located in the campground. Campers can use a heated and air-conditioned restroom with showers, coin operated washers and dryers, and vending machines.
Pets are allowed in the campground.
Why you will love Henderson Beach State Park
- Breathtaking Sunsets
- Pristine white sugar sand beaches
- Abundant wildlife
- Kids playground
Things to know when planning a visit to Henderson Beach State Park, Florida
Entrance Fee - $6 per vehicle
Address - 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, FL 32541
We stayed at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Destin, right across the street from the park. It was really cool being able to look over the park from the balcony
Phone - 850-837-7550
Hours - 8 am until sundown, 365 days a year
Please confirm with the restaurant to ensure that the hours have not changed.
Accessibility - The park offers beach wheelchairs, accessible picnic pavillions and benches, grills, and accessible campsites.
The ranger station can offer information on the beach wheel chair availability.
Plus Size Seating - You will need to bring a comfortable beach chair to enjoy the white sand beach. There are picnic tables and benches within the pavillion.
Dress Code/Suggestions - Beach casual, please bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. You will want to be prepared for the sun!
Pets - Pets are permitted in the park in specific areas including parking lots, the nature trail, and sidewalk area.
Pets are not permitted on the beach! They are also not allowed in the playground or any park building. Pets must be on a leash less than 6 feet in length.
Parking - There are close parking spots to the beach and picnic pavillions.
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Restaurants and Attractions nearby
The Back Porch - Fantastic beach restaurant with great food just down from the park.
The Donut Hole - a must-visit restaurant for amazing food and unbelievable donuts and pastries.
Fudpucker's Restaurant - Iconic Destin restaurant with fun t-shirts.
Gator Beach - Located next to Fudpucker's. Get your picture with a baby gator.
Destin Lodging and Hotels
If you are visiting and need to book accommodations, here are our recommendations.
Fairfield Inn and Suites Destin - We stayed at this great hotel right across from the Henderson Beach State Park. They have an indoor and outdoor pool and easy access to Destin attractions. Book Here
The Henderson Beach Resort - Gorgeous resort with full servcice spa, outdoor pools, white sand beach, and all the amenities you love. Book Here
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin - Close to Henderson Beach Park and Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park. Book Here
Inn on Destin Harbor - Located near HarborWalk Village with an outdoor pool and free self parking. Book Here
The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.
Destin Tours and Attractions
Dolphin Cruises - Head out on the water looking for Bottlenose dolphins and other marine wildlife on these great tours. Book tours HERE
Crab Island Tours - World-famous Crab Island is a must visit! Book a tour or private boat HERE.
Pontoon Boat Rentals - Enjoy the day out on the water in a fantastic pontoon boat. Check out Boat Rentals HERE
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park - See dolphins, sea lions, penquins, sharks, and more. Grab tickets HERE
Deep Sea Fishing Charters - Enjoy some of the world's best fishing! Book tours HERE
Sunset Cruises - One of our favorite things to do is enjoy a sunset cruise. The sunsets over the water are truly amazing. Book tours HERE
Click HERE to see all of the top-rated tours and activities in Destin.
We also have articles on the Emerald Coast of Florida, including Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Panama City Beach, Perdido Key, Pensacola, Sanibel and Captiva Island, and more.
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