Henderson Beach State Park Tours and Activities

Henderson Beach State Park showing a beach
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Escape the hustle and bustle of Destin, while retaining all the conveniences of its close proximity, at this scenic state park on the Gulf of Mexico.

The first thing you notice at Henderson Beach State Park is its sand. Stretching for 6,000 feet (1,800 meters) along the Gulf of Mexico, the shoreline looks like it has been covered with tons of pure white sugar. Spend a relaxing day on the beach or explore the park’s winding nature trails.

From the parking lot, follow the boardwalk over the dune to the beach. Spread out your beach towel and enjoy the soft sand and warm Florida sun. Go for a swim in the sparkling blue-green water, which remains temperate throughout the year.

Cast your fishing line in the water for flounder, catfish, pompano and more. Stop at the convenience store at the edge of the park to purchase bait and tackle.

Take a break from the sun in one of the park’s six pavilions. Grill outdoors or pack a picnic lunch. Freshen up in the bathhouse, which has restrooms and showers. Children gravitate toward the beachside playground.

Walk along the park’s nature trail. At less than 1 mile (1.2 kilometers) long, it is manageable for people of most fitness levels. Examine the unique dune ecosystem along the shore.

Watch for the varied wildlife in the area. Bring binoculars to see all the beach’s birds, from pelicans to plovers. Watch dolphins diving offshore and turtles swimming in the surf. Walk among scrub oaks, dune rosemary and sand pines.

If you want to stay for more than a day on the beach, reserve a campsite. Choose from 60 sites, ranging from tent areas to RV spots with water and electric hookups.

The admission fee to the park varies depending on your mode of transportation. The beach is wheelchair accessible. Bring your dog on the trails, but keep them leashed at all times. Pets are not allowed on the beach or at the playground.

Visit Henderson Beach State Park any day of the year. Stay until dusk or overnight if you have reserved a campsite. The town of Destin is less than 20 minutes away by car.

Compare 16,316 hotels close to Henderson Beach State Park with room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin
2.5 out of 5
19001 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL, 32541
The price is $152 per night from Apr 10 to Apr 11
$152
per night
Apr 10 - Apr 11
Stay at this golf hotel in Destin. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
"Perfect location"

Reviewed on Mar 20, 2023

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin
The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
5 out of 5
200 Henderson Resort Way, Destin, FL, 32541
The price is $399 per night from Apr 14 to Apr 15
$399
per night
Apr 14 - Apr 15
Stay at this 5-star luxury resort in Destin. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (846 reviews)
"Beautiful property and accommodations within walking distance of the beach, several dining options, and activities. Staff was friendly and helpful. We had a wonderful stay!"

Reviewed on Mar 15, 2023

The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin
Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin
3 out of 5
14060 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL, 32541
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is $169 per night from Apr 16 to Apr 17
$169
per night
Apr 16 - Apr 17
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Destin. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (832 reviews)
"This property was excellant the staff was wonderful"

Reviewed on Mar 23, 2023

Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Best Lodging Options Near Henderson Beach State Park

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin
2.5 out of 5
19001 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL, 32541
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin
The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
5 out of 5
200 Henderson Resort Way, Destin, FL, 32541
The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin
Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin
3 out of 5
14060 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL, 32541
Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin
2.5 out of 5
1625 Scenic Highway 98 East, Destin, FL, 32541
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin
Homewood Suites by Hilton Destin
Homewood Suites by Hilton Destin
3 out of 5
14051 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, FL, 32541
Homewood Suites by Hilton Destin
SummerPlace Inn Destin
SummerPlace Inn Destin
2.5 out of 5
14047 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL, 32541
SummerPlace Inn Destin
Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa
Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa
3.5 out of 5
15000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL, 32541
Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa
Top Floor Luxury Penthouse Condo with Ocean and Bay View
Top Floor Luxury Penthouse Condo with Ocean and Bay View
Destin, FL
Top Floor Luxury Penthouse Condo with Ocean and Bay View
🌴 Family Friendly Resort 🐠 HUGE Lagoon Pool 🤿 Close to Everything 🏖
🌴 Family Friendly Resort 🐠 HUGE Lagoon Pool 🤿 Close to Everything 🏖
Destin, FL
🌴 Family Friendly Resort 🐠 HUGE Lagoon Pool 🤿 Close to Everything 🏖
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.