Jolee Island Nature Park - a hill with trees on top of it next to a body of water
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Jolee Island Nature Park

3.7
·32 reviews·Destin, United States

A tranquil nature park within a private community, offering scenic walks, sunset views, and a lookout tower.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry afternoons

Avoid flooded paths

CrowdLow
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Jolee Island Nature Park - a hill with trees on top of it next to a body of water

Jolee Island Nature Park

Best Time

Dry afternoons

Avoid flooded paths

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil nature park within a private community, offering scenic walks, sunset views, and a lookout tower. Reddit

3.7
(32 reviews)

"Nice little place to take a walk. Some good sunsets. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Path Conditions

Paths can flood, limiting access. Confirm conditions before your visit to ensure you can explore. :warning:

Wildlife Awareness

Be mindful of snakes and gators in tall grass. Stick to main paths for safety. :snake:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Walking Bridge

Scenic Walking Bridge

Entrance to the island

A charming bridge offering a pleasant walk and access to the island's core. Great for photos and enjoying the surroundings.

Reddit
Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Various points on the island

Experience beautiful sunsets over the water, offering a peaceful and picturesque end to your visit.

Reddit
Lookout Tower

Lookout Tower

Island interior

Climb this tower for elevated views of the park and surrounding waters. A unique vantage point for nature lovers.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Check Accessibility Before You Go

Paths can flood after rain, making some areas inaccessible, including the beach. Confirm current conditions before visiting to avoid disappointment, especially if planning to explore the entire park. Reddit

Consider Your Group's Needs

While there's a playground, it may not be ideal for very young children, especially when wet. The park's natural environment also means potential wildlife encounters. Reddit

Best Times

When
Dry afternoons
Why
Avoid flooded paths
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
For sunset views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Discover the hidden gem of Sandestin Resort—Jolee Island! This secluded paradise offers serene nature trails, picturesque picnic spots, and a playground for the little adventurers. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly outing, Jolee Island is a must-visit. #JoleeIsland #Sandestin #DestinFlorida #MiramarBeach #EmeraldCoast #SouthWalton #Florida #BeachLife #SeasideFL #Nature...
@un.hinged.adventures
65 likes • 2.4K views

Check Path Conditions

Paths can flood, limiting access. Confirm conditions before your visit to ensure you can explore. Reddit :warning:

Wildlife Awareness

Be mindful of snakes and gators in tall grass. Stick to main paths for safety. Reddit :snake:

As I walked the trails of Jolee Island in Destin, I couldn’t help but reflect on how far I’ve come since my first year as a nurse. 🩺 That season was messy, overwhelming, and full of lessons no one warned me about. That’s why I wrote “My Adventures in Nursing” — an honest, heartfelt e-book for new nurses and nursing students who are just trying to survive shift to shift. If you’ve ever felt like gi...
@notesfornewnurses
20 likes • 394 views
Come along with @Josh Paige 🤠 and I on our adventure at Jolie Island 🌊🌴 Ft. josh tripping and me almost blowing my knees on the kids swing 🛝 #jolieisland #sandestin #floridavacation #destinmustdo #destinactivities #sandestinresort
@alothenbach
10 likes • 1.5K views

Playground Note

The playground might not be ideal for very young kids, especially when wet. Reddit :child:

Kayak Access

Consider kayaking to the island for a unique arrival experience. Reddit :kayak:

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Path Conditions

Paths can flood, limiting access. Confirm conditions before your visit to ensure you can explore. Reddit :warning:

Wildlife Awareness

Be mindful of snakes and gators in tall grass. Stick to main paths for safety. Reddit :snake:

Playground Note

The playground might not be ideal for very young kids, especially when wet. Reddit :child:

Kayak Access

Consider kayaking to the island for a unique arrival experience. Reddit :kayak:

What Travellers Say

3.7
(32 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Jolee Island Nature Park offers a peaceful escape with scenic walking paths and sunset views, though access can be limited by flooding and its location within a private community. While it features a playground and lookout tower, some visitors find it less ideal for young children and note potential wildlife. Reddit

"We came here on July 1 and it has been raining on and off the last few days so all the paths were flooded so we couldn't even get to the beach. The playground isn't great even if it wasn't sandy or wet. Maybe it's prettier if you could follow all the paths but I wouldn't take little kids here. You can walk on the first bridge, but I'd stop here."

Kelsey Golnitz

"Nice little place to take a walk. Some good sunsets 😊"

Joshua McBeth

"Not open to the public, but great place to go if you’re staying in the sandestin area! You can access by walking or kayak. There’s a playground for kids and a lookout tower to climb. Be aware of snakes and gators around. We didn’t see any but there’s tall grass around so it can be a little nerve wracking"

Victoria Tucker

What People Like

Scenic walking bridge
Sunset views
Quiet atmosphere

What People Dislike

Flooded paths
Limited public access
Playground condition

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Jolee Island Nature Park is located within a private community. Access is possible by walking or kayaking. Some visitors note it's a great place to visit if you're staying in the Sandestin area. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking lot available, which some visitors consider one of the more enjoyable aspects of the current park. Reddit

While there is a parking lot, direct car access to the island itself might be limited due to its nature as a park within a community. Walking or kayaking are recommended methods of access. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reports suggest Jolee Island Nature Park is not fully open to the general public, but accessible if you are staying in the Sandestin area or by kayak. Reddit

Information regarding ticket purchases is limited, but access seems to be more about community proximity or alternative entry methods like kayaking rather than traditional ticketing. Reddit

Specific opening hours are not widely published. Given its nature as a park within a community and potential for flooding, it's best to visit during daylight hours and check conditions. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can enjoy walking paths, a playground, and a lookout tower. The park also offers opportunities for enjoying sunsets and exploring the natural environment. Reddit

Yes, the park has walking paths, including a notable bridge leading to the island. However, these paths can become flooded after rain, limiting exploration. Reddit

There is a playground, but some reviews suggest it might not be ideal for very young children, especially when wet. Parents should assess suitability based on their children's age and current park conditions. Reddit

Be aware of potential wildlife such as snakes and alligators, particularly in the taller grass areas. Sticking to main paths is advised for safety. Reddit

Access to the beach may be limited or impossible if paths are flooded, as reported by visitors after periods of rain. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The walking bridge, lookout tower, and areas offering sunset views are popular for photography. The natural scenery provides a picturesque backdrop. Reddit

Yes, it has been used for private photo sessions, suggesting it offers appealing natural settings and scenic elements. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jolee Island Nature Park offers a playground and walking paths, which can be appealing for families. However, reviews suggest the playground might not be the best for very young children, especially if it's wet. Reddit Parents should also be aware of potential wildlife like snakes and gators in the taller grass, advising caution and sticking to main paths. Reddit The biggest consideration is the possibility of flooded paths, which can prevent access to certain areas, including the beach, making it important to check conditions beforehand. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers

For those who enjoy a peaceful stroll and capturing scenic views, Jolee Island Nature Park offers a pleasant experience. The walking bridge provides a nice entry point, and the park is noted for its good sunsets. Reddit The lookout tower offers elevated perspectives, making it a good spot for photography. Reddit While some amenities might be undergoing upgrades, the natural environment and the opportunity for quiet exploration make it a worthwhile visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking for a less crowded spot. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Jolee Island's Environment

Jolee Island Nature Park presents a unique natural setting, but visitors should be prepared for its environmental conditions. Path flooding is a significant concern, especially after recent rainfall, which can impede access to areas like the beach. Reddit This means checking the weather and potentially the park's current status before heading out is crucial for a successful visit.

The park's natural state also means being aware of local wildlife. Snakes and alligators have been noted in the taller grass areas, prompting advice to stick to the main paths for safety. Reddit While some visitors find the natural environment appealing for photography and quiet walks, others suggest that the park's current state, including potential inaccessibility and the condition of amenities like the playground, might make it less ideal for families with very young children. Reddit

Access and Community Considerations

Access to Jolee Island Nature Park is not as straightforward as a typical public park. It's situated within a private community, and reports indicate it's not fully open to the general public. Reddit However, visitors staying in the nearby Sandestin area or those who arrive by kayak have found ways to experience the park.

The presence of a parking lot is noted, but the overall impression from some reviews is that the park may have seen better days, with suggestions that upgrades are in progress. Reddit This blend of private community setting and potential for ongoing improvements means visitors should manage expectations and appreciate the unique access methods and natural beauty it offers, particularly for those seeking a quieter, less conventional nature escape. Reddit

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