Henderson Beach State Park


Our favorite beach area in Destin is this state park, which includes a 0.8-mile nature trail. There are also some excellent beachside campsites ($30), which include running water and electric hookups.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Seascape Beach

1.22 MILES

Although all of Destin's beaches are family-friendly, this beach is maybe a little more family-friendly, given the presence of restrooms, a picnic area…

2. Destin Boardwalk & HarborWalk Village

4.22 MILES

This tourist mecca of timeshare condos, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and a marina is worth a stroll, especially if you have kids. Most of the area's…

3. Okaloosa Day Use Area

7.14 MILES

This sub-section of gorgeous Gulf Islands National Seashore includes parking, beach access and a picnic area.

4. US Air Force Armament Museum

9.08 MILES

One for military buffs. The exterior of this hangar-style museum, flanked by fighter planes, appears small, but inside are extensive weapons displays –…

5. Okaloosa Island Pier & Boardwalk

9.19 MILES

Stretching out almost a quarter of a mile into the Atlantic, this popular recreational-fishing pier is open 24 hours in the summer and is illuminated for…

6. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

9.68 MILES

There's some 1640 acres of natural beauty to discover at Topsail, including quiet white-sand beaches, sun-battered wetlands, sand pine scrub forest, a 2.5…

7. Indian Temple Mound & Museum

10.1 MILES

One of the most sacred sites for local Native American culture to this day, the 17ft-tall, 223ft-wide ceremonial and political temple mound, built with…

8. Dune Allen Beach

11.45 MILES

Simply one of the more pleasant beaches along South Walton, Dune Allen is a family-friendly slice of sand that's great for the kids, or adults who just…