Lay on the beach & play on the paddleboards — Grayton Beach State Park

Grayton Beach State Park, located along Florida's scenic Highway 30A, is renowned for its pristine shoreline and natural beauty. The park features a mile of sugar-white sand and clear, emerald-green waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks along the shore. With a valid Florida fishing license (visit gooutdoorsflorida.com), anglers can fish directly from the beach, targeting species like pompano and redfish. The beach serves as a nesting ground for sea turtles and various shorebirds. Visitors can observe these creatures in their natural habitat, especially during nesting seasons. If you're looking for more in-the-water fun, Sea Turtle Reef, located less than 800 feet from the beach is ideal for snorkeling and diving. For a unique experience, visit the Underwater Museum of Art, situated about a mile offshore at a depth of 58 feet.

Located adjacent to the beach is Western Lake, one of only a few dozen coastal dune lakes in the world. These rare bodies of water are found in only a handful of places globally (including New Zealand and Madagascar) and naturally connect to the Gulf of Mexico. Paddling in Western Lake at Grayton Beach State Park offers a peaceful, scenic experience ideal for all skill levels. Calm, shallow waters make it great for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Its brackish water supports diverse wildlife inviting paddlers to enjoy views of native creatures like herons and turtles, and also observe mixed terrain like pine forests and marsh grasses. Rentals and easy launch access are available near the beach and campground.