Grayton Beach State Park
A pristine 2,000-acre coastal gem with powdery white sands, emerald waters, and unique dune lakes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Grayton Beach State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine 2,000-acre coastal gem with powdery white sands, emerald waters, and unique dune lakes.
"Grayton Beach State Park is truly one of Florida’s finest treasures—and we feel lucky to have it right in our backyard."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The park fills up fast! Get there before 10 AM to guarantee entry and avoid waiting.
🥾 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Sand can get very hot, especially during midday hikes. Bring comfortable shoes for trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Powdery White Sand Beaches
Gulf Coast shoreline
World-class beaches with powdery white sand and emerald waters, consistently ranked among the best in the U.S.
Western Lake Paddling
Western Lake
Explore the calm waters of Western Lake by kayak or paddleboard, offering a serene escape from the ocean waves.
Underwater Museum of Art (UMA)
Offshore
Dive or snorkel to discover unique sculptures that have transformed into vibrant artificial reef habitats.
Scenic Dune Trails
Nature trails
Hike through stunning white sand dunes with amazing views, a perfect spot for family photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Understand Beach Access & Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The park fills up fast! Get there before 10 AM to guarantee entry and avoid waiting.
🥾 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Sand can get very hot, especially during midday hikes. Bring comfortable shoes for trails.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the serene Western Lake.
📸 Great for Photography
The park's natural beauty makes it a favorite for photographers, especially at sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The park fills up fast! Get there before 10 AM to guarantee entry and avoid waiting.
🥾 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Sand can get very hot, especially during midday hikes. Bring comfortable shoes for trails.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the serene Western Lake.
📸 Great for Photography
The park's natural beauty makes it a favorite for photographers, especially at sunset.
🚫 Dogs Not Allowed on Beach
While dogs are welcome in the park, they must be kept off the beach areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Grayton Beach State Park for its world-class, untouched beaches and stunning natural beauty. The park offers a variety of activities, from hiking scenic dune trails to paddling on Western Lake and exploring the unique Underwater Museum of Art. While the park's popularity means it can reach capacity, early arrivals are rewarded with a serene and memorable experience. Some visitors note that dogs are not allowed on the beach, and the online reservation system for day passes doesn't always guarantee entry.
"Another beautiful Florida Beach State Park. Gate staff were friendly and helpful. Nice paved roads and parking lots throughout. Nice restroom facilities near the beach. Beaches were beautiful and as untouched as you can find. The sand dunes are roped off and very cool. Great place for family photos. Lots of photographers utilize this location."
Ben Crandall
"Grayton Beach State Park is an exceptional location! It costs $5 per car for admission. However, be sure to get there early. Once the park reaches capacity, they will close the entrance for a while.
We arrived mid-afternoon to take the one mile hike through the white sand dunes. It was an easy walk with amazing views. The sand can get hot though. So, be sure to have appropriate footwear.
After the hike, we went to the beach for a quick swim. The water was clear, blue, and cool. We enjoyed it so much that we didn’t want to leave. We highly recommend exploring nature at this location."
Kristi Parks
"Grayton Beach State Park is truly one of Florida’s finest treasures—and we feel lucky to have it right in our backyard. As longtime locals, we’ve done it all here over the years: hiked the scenic trails, paddled across Western Lake, camped under the stars, and stayed in the cozy cabins during the 30A Songwriters Festival in January.
The cabins are one of our favorite ways to enjoy the park—perfectly positioned along 30A, simple but comfortable, and a short walk to the beach. You get everything you need without the high price tag of nearby rentals, making it a fantastic and affordable way to enjoy the area.
The beach itself is world-class—literally. With its powdery white sand and emerald waters, Grayton Beach has been ranked among the top beaches in the U.S. by Dr. Beach and others multiple times. It’s the kind of place that takes your breath away, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
We’ve brought family from out of state here just to experience it—it’s that special. On calm days, we love to paddleboard along the shoreline, and for those into diving, the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) just offshore adds a truly unique experience you won’t find at most state parks. Sculptures become reef habitat, and diving there combines art, conservation, and adventure all in one.
Whether you’re here for recreation or relaxation, Grayton Beach State Park offers a rare mix of natural beauty, peace, and accessibility. It’s one of the most unforgettable spots on the Gulf Coast—and a place we’ll keep coming back to for years to come."
HWY331.com Team
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grayton Beach State Park is located at 357 Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. It's easily accessible by car.
Public transportation options are limited in this area. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the park.
From Highway 98, turn north onto CR-283 (South County Road 395) and follow signs for Grayton Beach State Park.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early to secure a spot.
The closest major airport is Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS). You would typically need to rent a car or arrange for private transportation to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is typically $5 per vehicle. Fees are waived between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
The park is open from 8 am until sundown, 365 days a year.
While you can purchase a day pass online, it does not guarantee entry if the park reaches capacity. It's best to arrive early.
A purchased day pass does not guarantee entry if the park is at capacity. Arriving early is the best strategy.
Fees are waived between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Check the official Florida State Parks website for any other potential discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming, sunbathing, hiking and biking on nature trails, kayaking on Western Lake, and exploring the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA).
Yes, the Gulf waters are clear and cool, perfect for swimming.
Yes, there are scenic one-mile hiking trails through white sand dunes offering amazing views.
Absolutely! The park offers 59 campsites, divided into two sections for a more private feel, with easy beach access.
Yes, you can snorkel or dive to the sea turtle reef and the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) offshore.
No, dogs are not permitted on the beach itself, though they are allowed in other areas of the park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within the park. You'll find dining options in the nearby town of Grayton Beach and along 30A.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Remember to pack out all trash.
Nearby options include Grace Pizza and Pizza by the Sea in Grayton Beach, and various restaurants in Seaside and along 30A.
📸 📸 Photography
The white sand dunes, the shoreline at sunset, and the unique sculptures of the UMA are all fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, the beautiful beaches and dunes provide a stunning backdrop for family portraits.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The one-mile dune trails offer an easy and scenic walk, though be mindful of the hot sand and bring appropriate footwear. 🏕️ Campers & RVers
The short walk to the beach from the campground is a major perk. Booking your site online well in advance is crucial, as they are highly sought after. 🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Grayton Beach State Park
These sites often come with full hookups, making RV camping comfortable and convenient. The proximity to the beach is a major draw, with many sites just a short walk away from the sand and surf. Booking online in advance is highly recommended, as these popular spots tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Campers can enjoy the park's amenities, including access to nature trails, restrooms, and the beach. While dogs are welcome in the campground, remember they are not permitted on the beach itself.
The cost for camping is generally around $48 per night, offering a more affordable way to experience the 30A area compared to nearby accommodations. It's an ideal option for travelers seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and coastal relaxation. Exploring Western Lake
Grayton Beach State Park provides excellent opportunities to explore this serene environment. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available directly within the park, allowing visitors to glide across the calm waters at their own pace. Paddling on Western Lake offers a different perspective than the bustling Gulf beaches. It's a tranquil experience, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the coastal landscape. The lake is also connected to the Gulf via a small channel, which can be an adventure to navigate on calmer days. Whether you're an experienced paddler or a beginner, exploring Western Lake is a must-do activity for a more intimate connection with the park's diverse ecosystems.
The Underwater Museum of Art (UMA)
Divers and snorkelers can explore these unique underwater installations, observing how marine life has colonized the art pieces. It's a truly unique experience that transforms a dive into an artistic and ecological journey. While some visitors inquire about swimming to the reef, it's generally recommended to use floats or consider guided snorkel tours for safety and to fully appreciate the site.
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