Saint Andrews State Park

Display in Interpretive Center

King Solomon spoke of trees,
from the cedar that is in Lebanon
to the hyssop that grows out of the wall.
He spoke also of beasts, and of birds,
and of reptiles, and of fish.
I Kings 4:33

Saint Andrews State Park is well worth the drive from 30A.

The entrance fee is minimal.

Some of the opportunities included with the entrance fee:

~ a visit to the small nature center (interpretive facility) with history of the park and displays of local critters
~ ranger programs (check day and time)
~ a stroll around alligator pond
~ amateur snorkeling (bring gear)
~ a dip in the calm beach waters of the jetty-lined gulf access
~ crashing waves on the other side of the jetty

If desiring to experience Shell Island, an undeveloped habitat known for snorkeling and shells, boats will ferry your family for a fee ($17/adult, etc).

No bathroom facilities are available on Shell Island, nor water, snacks, or sunscreen, so pack for the island accordingly.

Lots of facilities are available at the state park.

Our family has not yet experienced Shell Island, but as a couple we enjoyed the other aspects of St. Andrews State Park.

Alligator Pond

Grayton Beach State Park



Sand Dunes Trail at Grayton Beach States Park

 

Sand Dunes at Grayton Beach State Park

 

Roomy Beaches at Grayton Beach State Park

He is before all things,

and in Him all things hold together.

Colossians 1:17

Grateful we are to the Lord in sharing His marvelous creation

and to the state of Florida for an economical option

for everyone to enjoy the beauty of creation! 

 

A few attributes to enjoy...

~ Located on 30A in the Florida Panhandle

 

~ Public gulf beach access with powdered sand and views

~ Public beach well-visited but not overcrowded

~ Voted top spot on 30A to view sunsets

~ Photographer pick for beach photo shoots

~ Public access to Western Lake for canoes, paddleboards, kayaks

~ Canoes (limited) available for rent for $10

~ Bike ride away from WaterColor, Seaside, SeaGrove, coffee shops, restaurants

~ Bike ride away from Eden Gardens State Park and Point Washington State Forest

~ Large beach bathhouse

~ Picnic pavilions overlooking gorgeous Western Lake

~ Shaded camping spots

~ Trails for nature enthusiasts

~ Coastal sand dunes galore

~ Ranger educational programs (seasonal)

~ Located between Panama City and Destin for day trips

~ Short drive from all 30A communities and activities

~ Short drive from Wal-Mart and Publix

~ Short drive from spacious dog park

~ $5 park entry fee

~ Campsites for $20/night

~ Did I mention $20/night? J

Coastal Sand Dunes & Lakes

Coastal Sand Dunes - Grayton Beach State Park

For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes,
His eternal power and divine nature,
have been clearly seen,
being understood through what has been made...
Romans 1:20ff

The coastal sand dunes of 30A are not to be taken for granted as they are a rare jewel worldwide.

The sand dunes and its native plants protect the beaches from erosion, and provide a stunning backdrop to the lakes and beaches.

Sand Dunes at Grayton Beach State Park

While locals reminisce about days of dune buggies, it is now prohibited to WALK (or drive) on the dunes. 

Restoration of the dunes is in progress and they are beautiful to behold.

Our trail hikes have been limited thus far, but one personal favorite of anything on 30A was the tiny loop on a trail at the dunes in Grayton Beach State Park.  Such a beauty was the contrast of twisted tree branches against the dunes, a hired photographer chose the locale for a photo shoot.

Sign at Western Lake

The lakes are gorgeous with the large pines and framework of dunes and unique greenery.  Western Lake is a personal favorite, worth a stop on a 30A bridge to absorb or take a picture.

Numerous state parks are located in and around this area such as Top Sail, Dune Allen, and Camp Helen.  Not sure which ones have dunes. Ranger stations are a great resource!