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State park · Destin, Florida
Grayton Beach State Park
A state park on Scenic Highway 30A, east of Destin, with white‑sand beach, high dunes and a coastal lake, a rare type of lagoon that connects to the sea from time to time.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is on Scenic Highway 30A, between the small communities of Grayton Beach and Seaside, about 40 km east of Destin. It protects high dunes, a white‑sand beach and a stretch of pine and low oak forest.
The park’s highlight is Western Lake, one of the dune coastal lakes in the region, rare in the world. These are freshwater and brackish lagoons separated from the sea by sand, which periodically open a channel to the Gulf during heavy rains or storms. The lake can be explored by kayak or paddleboard.
A roughly 1.6 km trail crosses the woods and dunes and returns along the beach. The park has campsites and cabins. The beach is often ranked among the best in the United States.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day to a full day.
Best time
Morning, for kayaking on the lake when the water is calmer, and late afternoon for the beach. In high season the parking lot fills early.
How to get there
On Scenic Highway 30A, about 40 km east of Destin via US‑98. A vehicle entry fee is charged.
Tip
Combine the park with a visit to Seaside and the towns along 30A, a few kilometers away, by bike or car.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grayton Beach State Park
What is a dune coastal lake?
A lagoon separated from the sea by sand that occasionally opens a channel to the Gulf. Western Lake, in Grayton Beach State Park, is one of them.
Where is Grayton Beach State Park located?
On Scenic Highway 30A, about 40 km east of Destin.
What can you do at Grayton Beach State Park?
Go to the beach, kayak on Western Lake, hike the dune trail and camp.