Monticello FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Monticello, Florida.
1. Lake Miccosukee
SPRAWLING NATURAL LAKE
Lake Miccosukee sprawls over 6200 acres along Jefferson County's northwest border, offering bountiful fishing and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this expansive natural setting. The lake's serene environment makes it a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking outdoor activities near Monticello.
2. Wacissa River
STATE CANOE TRAIL
The lovely Wacissa River has been designated as a state canoe trail by the Florida Department of Natural Resources. Flowing from Wacissa Springs in the southern part of Jefferson County, the river meanders its way through mile after mile of unspoiled countryside. This pristine waterway offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife observation in a natural setting.
3. Aucilla River
HISTORIC WILDERNESS WATERWAY
The Aucilla River runs through Jefferson County, offering a wilderness experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy fishing, paddling, and exploring the natural beauty along this historic waterway. The river's unique limestone sinkholes and rich archaeological history make it a fascinating destination for adventure seekers.
4. St. Marks River
COASTAL WILDLIFE HAVEN
The St. Marks River flows through Jefferson County before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. This coastal waterway provides excellent fishing opportunities and serves as an important wildlife corridor. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the river for its diverse ecosystems and peaceful paddling routes.
5. Carrabelle Beach
CLOSEST GULF ACCESS
Carrabelle Beach is one of the closest beaches to Tallahassee and Monticello, located just about 60 miles from Monticello. The beach features covered pavilions, public bathrooms, and no entrance fees, making it popular among residents and visitors alike. Weekends can get crowded, so visitors are recommended to arrive early or plan weekday trips to fully enjoy this accessible Gulf Coast destination.
6. Dog Island
SECLUDED ISLAND PARADISE
Dog Island is considered one of the area's best-kept secrets, offering pristine beaches where visitors can enjoy soft sand and Florida sunshine in complete solitude. Located just off the coast of Carrabelle, this secluded island can be accessed via motorized boat, airplane, or by chartering a ferry. The island's remote nature ensures an uncrowded beach experience, making it worth the extra effort to reach this hidden gem.
7. Mashes Sands Beach
MARSHLAND BEACH RETREAT
Mashes Sands Beach is one of Wakulla County's hidden treasures, located at 901 Mashes Sands Road in Panacea. This secluded beach is surrounded by saltwater marshes, hosts an abundance of wildlife, and is a great place to fish or watch the sunset. The beach offers limited amenities but features a mobile restroom facility and nearby boat ramp providing access to Ochlockonee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
8. Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
HISTORIC NATURAL SPRING
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park features one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear spring waters, take glass-bottom boat tours to observe the underwater wildlife, or explore the surrounding forest trails. The historic lodge and restaurant add to the park's appeal as both a natural wonder and cultural landmark.
9. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
ORNAMENTAL GARDENS LAKE
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park offers a unique combination of botanical gardens and recreational lake activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and canoeing on Lake Hall within the park boundaries. The ornamental gardens, historic mansion, and natural lakefront setting create a picturesque environment for both relaxation and recreation.
10. Bald Point State Park
COASTAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Bald Point State Park offers a natural beach setting where visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and kayaking in the Gulf of Mexico. The park's diverse coastal ecosystem provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly during bird migration seasons. With its relatively uncrowded beaches and scenic trails, Bald Point offers a more serene alternative to busier coastal destinations in the region.