Henderson Beach State Park preserves 6,000 feet of pristine shoreline and natural coastal scrub ecosystem in the otherwise heavily developed Destin area. The beach features brilliant white quartz sand and emerald-green waters characteristic of the Emerald Coast. A nature trail winds through ancient dunes, some over 30 feet tall, providing habitat for wildlife including migratory […]
Beaches for Bird Watching
Navarre Beach
Known as ‘Florida’s Most Relaxing Place,’ Navarre Beach offers 12 miles of uncrowded, pristine white sand between Gulf Islands National Seashore and Navarre Beach County Park. The 1,545-foot fishing pier is the longest on the Gulf of Mexico and great for fishing or dolphin watching. The beach features the Navarre Beach Marine Park with artificial […]
East Beach (St. Simons)
The main public beach area on St. Simons Island, featuring a wide, flat shoreline ideal for cycling, jogging, and shell collecting. Known for great bird watching, particularly during low tide when sandbars are exposed. Offers several public access points.
Gould’s Inlet (St. Simons)
A scenic coastal inlet between St. Simons and Sea Island, popular for fishing, bird watching, and nature photography. Features a wooden observation deck and is a designated stop on the Colonial Coast Birding Trail. Not ideal for swimming due to strong currents.
Cabretta Beach (Sapelo Island)
An undeveloped, wild beach on Sapelo Island accessible via the island’s ferry and transportation system. Features primitive campsites near the beach, excellent birding opportunities, and a truly pristine coastal environment. Permits required for camping.
St. Andrews Beach (Jekyll Island)
Located on Jekyll Island’s southwestern shore facing St. Andrews Sound. Features a raised viewing platform for dolphin and bird watching, picnic facilities, and proximity to the historic Jekyll Island Club. Part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.
Raccoon Island Beach
Part of the Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge, this remote beach is accessible only by private boat. Features pristine shoreline, excellent bird watching, and opportunities to see loggerhead sea turtles during nesting season. No facilities available.
Nannygoat Beach (Jekyll Island)
Located on Jekyll Island’s south end, this quiet beach features access via a scenic nature trail through maritime forest. Offers excellent photography opportunities and bird watching. Less crowded than other Jekyll beaches with limited facilities.
Mitchelville Beach
Secluded beach on Hilton Head with historical significance as the site of the first self-governed freedmen’s town after the Civil War. Features excellent bird watching, dramatic tides, and fossil hunting. Less crowded than other island beaches.
Bennett’s Pier
Remote beach area within Milford Neck Wildlife Area on Delaware Bay. Limited facilities with natural setting ideal for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation. Part of important migratory bird habitat with minimal development.