Port St. Joe FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Port St. Joe, Florida.
1. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
PRISTINE GULF SHORE BEAUTY
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park offers miles of sugar-white sand beaches bordered by emerald Gulf waters and tall dunes, providing one of Florida's most stunning coastal settings. Visitors enjoy swimming, shelling, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in this remote and unspoiled paradise. The park's peaceful, natural vibe and breathtaking sunsets make it a standout for beach and water recreation.
2. WindMark Beach
LOW-KEY FAMILY SHORES
WindMark Beach features gently sloping beaches along St. Joseph Bay, perfect for families and those seeking a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular due to calm, shallow waters suited for all ages. A scenic boardwalk and convenient beach accesses add to its welcoming, easygoing charm.
3. George Core Park (Lighthouse Park)
BAYFRONT LIGHTHOUSE VIEWS
George Core Park, also known as Lighthouse Park, sits on the shores of St. Joseph Bay and features grassy areas, a sandy shoreline, and the iconic Cape San Blas Lighthouse. It's ideal for picnics, short swims, and fishing with stunning sunset views and playground facilities. The park's waterfront location and historic lighthouse provide a unique blend of recreation and local heritage.
4. Cape San Blas Beach
SECLUDED PENINSULA SANDS
Cape San Blas Beach offers a tranquil escape on a narrow peninsula bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay, known for its soft sand and clear blue-green water. Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and shell collecting are favorite activities in this peaceful setting. The beach's uncrowded shoreline and natural beauty draw both families and outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Indian Pass Beach
OLD FLORIDA SERENITY
Indian Pass Beach stretches along a quiet, undeveloped coastline where St. Vincent Sound meets the Gulf, offering an authentic Old Florida beach experience. Anglers love the area for surf fishing while beachgoers enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and dolphin sightings. Its remote location and peaceful ambiance make it a favorite for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
6. Salinas Park Bayside
BAYFRONT PICNIC PARADISE
Salinas Park Bayside features a sandy shoreline on St. Joseph Bay, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring shallow tidal pools. The park is well-equipped with picnic pavilions, a playground, and boardwalk trails, making it a family-friendly waterfront destination. Its calm bay waters and scenic views create a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and outdoor fun.
7. Salinas Park Gulfside
DUNE-BACKED GULF ESCAPE
Salinas Park Gulfside offers direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, with soft sand dunes, clear water, and boardwalks leading to a wide beachfront ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The park includes volleyball courts and picnic areas, catering to both relaxation and recreation. Visitors appreciate the park's easy access and the contrast between gentle bay and open Gulf waters.
8. Mexico Beach
CLASSIC PANHANDLE COAST
Mexico Beach spans several miles of Gulf shoreline with powdery quartz sand and aquamarine water, creating a classic Florida beach setting. Activities like swimming, fishing off the pier, paddleboarding, and shelling are popular among visitors. Its small-town ambiance and expansive public beaches make it a popular spot for both relaxation and water recreation.
9. Dead Lakes Park
MYSTERIOUS CYPRESS WATERS
Dead Lakes Park, located inland along the Dead Lakes, is famous for its hauntingly beautiful cypress trees and calm, tannin-stained water. The park offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and picnicking along grassy lakeside beaches. Its unique landscape and tranquil ambiance make it a distinct alternative to Gulf beaches near Port St. Joe.
10. Beacon Hill Beach
DOG-FRIENDLY COASTAL PARK
Beacon Hill Beach provides a quiet, pet-friendly stretch of sandy shoreline between Port St. Joe and Mexico Beach, featuring dunes and easy public access. Swimming, shelling, and beachcombing are favorite pastimes, and many visitors bring their dogs for a seaside adventure. The laid-back vibe and open spaces attract families and travelers seeking a less crowded Gulf experience.