Gretna FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Gretna, Florida.
1. Lake Talquin State Park
PEACEFUL LAKESIDE RECREATION
Lake Talquin State Park offers a scenic and tranquil lakeside escape ideal for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The park's pine forests and rolling hills provide a picturesque backdrop for picnics and swimming along the lake's shoreline. Its relaxed environment and sweeping water views make it a favorite for nature lovers seeking a quiet waterfront retreat.
2. Three Rivers State Park
CONFLUENCE OF SCENIC RIVERS
Located at the junction of the Chattahoochee, Flint, and Apalachicola rivers, Three Rivers State Park features beautiful wooded campsites and a large freshwater lake perfect for swimming and fishing. Visitors enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and hiking along scenic riverside trails. The peaceful natural setting and abundant wildlife make it an outstanding choice for water recreation and family picnics.
3. Seminole State Park
LAKESIDE SWIMMING & BOATING
Situated on the shores of Lake Seminole, Seminole State Park offers a sandy swimming beach, canoe rentals, and boat ramps for easy access to the lake. The park is popular for water skiing, fishing, and wildlife spotting in its cypress swamps. Its peaceful environment and extensive amenities make it a popular destination for families seeking waterfront fun.
4. Carrabelle Beach
RELAXED GULF COAST BEACH
Carrabelle Beach provides a laid-back Gulf Coast setting with soft white sand and gentle surf, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is equipped with covered pavilions, public bathrooms, and convenient parking, creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Its absence of entrance fees and easy accessibility make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
5. Dog Island
SECLUDED ISLAND PARADISE
Dog Island offers an almost untouched beach environment, accessible by boat or ferry, with miles of pristine sand and abundant wildlife. Visitors can relax in solitude, explore shell-covered beaches, and swim in clear Gulf waters. Its remote setting and natural beauty appeal to those seeking a peaceful and uncrowded coastal escape.
6. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
ORNAMENTAL LAKESIDE BEAUTY
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park boasts stunning ornamental gardens surrounding scenic Lake Hall, where guests can swim, paddle, and picnic on the shore. The park is renowned for its blooming camellias and azaleas, providing a lush, colorful atmosphere. Its lakeside swimming area and beautifully maintained grounds make it a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
NATURAL SPRING SWIMMING
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park features one of the world's largest and deepest freshwater springs, offering swimming, glass-bottom boat tours, and wildlife viewing. The spring's cool, crystal-clear waters are ideal for escaping Florida's heat. Its majestic cypress trees, historic lodge, and renowned swimming area attract both families and nature lovers.
8. Panama City Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY GULF COAST
Panama City Beach is famous for its sugar-white sand, emerald-green waters, and a lively atmosphere ideal for swimming, surfing, and water sports. The beach is lined with family attractions, seafood restaurants, and beachside parks, creating a vibrant coastal playground. Its combination of abundant amenities and natural beauty makes it one of northern Florida's top waterfront escapes.
9. St. George Island State Park
UNSPOILED BARRIER ISLAND
St. George Island State Park stretches across nine miles of undeveloped beach, offering rare solitude and towering dunes ideal for swimming, shelling, and fishing. The park is a haven for birdwatching and stargazing thanks to its protected, natural setting. Its remote, pristine coastline attracts visitors seeking an authentic, crowd-free beach experience.
10. Mashes Sands Beach
SCENIC BAYFRONT PICNIC SPOT
Mashes Sands Beach features marshy surroundings and sandy shores on the Ochlockonee Bay, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and crabbing. The beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere, boardwalks, and picnic areas with scenic water views. Its easy access and peaceful vibe make it a local favorite for waterfront relaxation and exploration.