Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Pets
Pets are not allowed in camping areas, on bathing beaches, in concession areas and may be restricted in other designated areas of the park. Where pets are allowed, they must be kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash and well-behaved at all times. Service dogs are welcome in all areas of the parks.

State Park Guide
To discover and experience all of the Real Florida at Florida's 145 state parks, ask a Park Ranger where you can pick up a copy of the Florida State Park Guide, or call 850/488-9872.

 



Reservations for
Florida State
Parks are now
made through
Reserve America,

toll free, at
1-800-326-3521
 
HENDERSON BEACH STATE RECREATION AREA

Henderson Beach State Recreation Area has one of Florida's greatest natural assets, sugar white sand beaches. Henderson Beach State Recreation Area features more than 6,000 feet of scenic shoreline bordering the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Named for its previous owners, the park was purchased in 1983 from the Henderson family estate for $13.1 million. The first acquisition under the Save Our Coast Program, Henderson Beach State Recreation Area was opened to the public on March 29, 1991.

The Henderson family wanted the land preserved to protect the unique natural features of the area, and provide the public with an opportunity to enjoy the surroundings. Today, the 208-acre park is a habitat for sand pines, scrub oaks, Southern Magnolias, dune rosemary and a variety of wildflowers. Boardwalks are provided to allow park visitors easy access to the beach without damaging the dunes and vegetation.


WILDLIFE
Wildlife found throughout the park area includes protected sea turtles which nest along the beach and a variety of special shoreline birds. Visitors can spot black skimmers, sanderlings, brown pelicans and laughing gulls.

RECREATION
Recreational activities at Henderson Beach State Recreation Area offer something for the entire family.

Swimming, surf fishing and picnicking are popular pastimes. Visitors wishing to try their luck in the surf may catch popular species such as pompano and whiting. For those who prefer a ready-made lunch, a picnic pavilion is conveniently located nearby.

Bathhouses with outside showers are also provided.


Henderson Beach State Recreation Area is located just east of the city of Destin on U.S.98.

Contact:
Henderson Beach State Recreation Area
17000 Emerald Coast Parkway
Destin, Florida 32541
(850) 837-7550


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