Mary Esther FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Mary Esther, Florida.
1. Wynnehaven Beach
QUIET BAYFRONT RETREAT
Wynnehaven Beach is a small, peaceful bayfront spot in Mary Esther offering soft beige sand and gentle surf. Surrounded by sparse vegetation, it provides a tranquil setting ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or a quiet picnic by the water. Its charm comes from its uncrowded atmosphere and easy access for locals and visitors alike.
2. Liza Jackson Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATERFRONT PARK
Liza Jackson Park sits along the Santa Rosa Sound and features a sandy beach, boat launches, playgrounds, and shaded picnic areas. This waterfront escape is perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and family gatherings. Visitors are drawn to its blend of recreational amenities and serene coastal scenery.
3. Brackin Wayside Beach
SCENIC SOUNDSIDE BEACH
Brackin Wayside Beach offers a scenic setting along the Santa Rosa Sound with white sands and calm waters. The beach is popular for swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying sunsets over the water. Its easy access and relaxed vibe make it a local favorite for families and solo visitors alike.
4. El Matador Beach
SECLUDED GULF ACCESS
El Matador Beach is a lesser-known gem offering direct access to the Gulf of Mexico with white sand and emerald waters. Its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque dunes provide a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The beach is especially appealing to visitors seeking a quieter stretch away from crowds.
5. Henderson Beach State Park
NATURAL GULF COAST BEAUTY
Henderson Beach State Park boasts more than a mile of pristine, undeveloped shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico. The park's soft dunes, nature trails, and clear waters attract swimmers, anglers, campers, and beachgoers. Its ecological diversity and stunning sunsets make it a must-visit for anyone seeking the classic Emerald Coast experience.
6. Marlers Park Beach
SOUNDSIDE FUN AND FISHING
Marlers Park Beach features a sandy shoreline on the Santa Rosa Sound, ideal for wading, swimming, and launching kayaks. Picnic sites, fishing piers, and wide-open spaces make it a popular spot for outdoor family gatherings. The beautiful setting and relaxed pace invite visitors to unwind and enjoy waterside leisure.
7. Poquito Park
NEIGHBORHOOD WATERFRONT PARK
Poquito Park provides a small local escape with a beach, playground, and picnic areas right on the bay. It's ideal for families with young children seeking safe swimming and a laid-back environment. The park's friendly, neighborhood feel makes it a cherished gathering spot in the Shalimar area.
8. Holiday Isle Beach
DESTIN'S QUIET PENINSULA
Holiday Isle Beach stretches along a tranquil peninsula between the Gulf and Destin Harbor, offering sparkling waters and plenty of space. Swimming, shelling, and boating are favorite activities here, with spectacular views in every direction. The laid-back vibe and easy water access make it ideal for families and casual beachgoers.
9. Weekley Bayou
NATURAL BAYOU SWIMMING
Weekley Bayou offers a more rustic, natural waterfront experience with its sheltered bayou setting and easy kayak or paddleboard launching. The calm waters are excellent for swimming and wildlife spotting. It's perfect for those who appreciate a quieter, less developed escape surrounded by local flora and fauna.
10. John Beasley Park
FULL-SERVICE BEACH PARK
John Beasley Park sits on Okaloosa Island and features broad public beach access to the Gulf, complete with restrooms, showers, and shaded pavilions. The park's spacious white-sand beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors enjoy its convenience, lifeguard presence, and panoramic coastal views.