Florida’s Gulf Coast is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the country, offering visitors an abundance of opportunities to explore pristine beaches, scenic trails, and diverse wildlife habitats. Whether you're looking to kayak through coastal dune lakes, hike through lush nature preserves, or spot dolphins and manatees in their natural environment, the parks and wildlife refuges in 30A, Destin, Panama City Beach, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and beyond provide unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Best State Parks & Nature Preserves Near 30A, Destin & Panama City Beach
- St. Andrews State Park 📍 Panama City Beach, FL
A paradise for nature lovers, St. Andrews State Park features over 1,200 acres of protected shoreline, hiking trails, and calm waters for snorkeling and paddleboarding. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including migratory birds, gopher tortoises, and dolphins often seen playing near the shore. Visitors can take a shuttle to Shell Island, an undeveloped barrier island with pristine beaches.
- Grayton Beach State Park 📍Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S., Grayton Beach State Park offers a rare combination of sugar-white sand beaches and coastal dune lakes, which are unique ecosystems only found in a few places worldwide. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting, all while taking in the stunning scenery.
- Topsail Hill Preserve State Park 📍 Santa Rosa Beach, FL
This park is famous for its towering sand dunes, secluded beaches, and coastal dune lakes. Nature enthusiasts can explore over 15 miles of trails, rent bikes, or paddle through the freshwater lakes. The park is also a prime spot for birdwatching, with sightings of ospreys, bald eagles, and herons.
- Henderson Beach State Park 📍 Destin, FL
One of the most picturesque beaches on the Emerald Coast, Henderson Beach State Park boasts 30-foot sand dunes, nature trails, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. It’s an excellent spot for picnicking, sunbathing, or hiking along the scenic boardwalks.
Wildlife Refuges & Nature Parks Near Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach & Longboat Key
- Robinson Preserve 📍 Bradenton, FL
This 682-acre coastal preserve is a haven for kayakers, paddleboarders, and nature lovers. The preserve features mangrove tunnels, salt marshes, and scenic hiking trails that offer stunning views of Tampa Bay. Climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the Gulf Coast!
- De Soto National Memorial📍 Bradenton, FL
A site rich in history and natural beauty, De Soto National Memorial commemorates the landing of Hernando de Soto in 1539. Visitors can enjoy nature trails along the Manatee River, guided kayak tours, and interactive historical exhibits that tell the story of early explorers.
- Neal Preserve 📍 Bradenton Beach, FL
A quiet retreat just minutes from Bradenton Beach, Neal Preserve offers hiking trails through mangroves and tidal marshes, along with ancient Native American shell mounds. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
- Leffis Key Preserve 📍 Anna Maria Island, FL
Leffis Key is a hidden gem with scenic boardwalks and observation decks that overlook Sarasota Bay. Visitors can explore winding nature trails, spot dolphins in the bay, and observe diverse marine life in the seagrass beds.
Dolphin & Wildlife Encounters on Florida’s Gulf Coast
- Gulf Islands National Seashore📍 Okaloosa Island, FL
Stretching along the coast, this protected area features sugar-white sand beaches, maritime forests, and abundant wildlife. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, kayaking, and dolphin-watching tours.
- Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours 📍Anna Maria Island, FL
If you want a guaranteed chance to see dolphins, book a tour with one of the local operators. These guided boat excursions take you through Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico for an up-close look at dolphins, manatees, and other marine life.
Plan Your Stay with Best Beach Getaways
Exploring Florida’s Gulf Coast goes beyond just lounging on the beach—there’s a world of nature, wildlife, and outdoor adventure waiting to be discovered. Whether you're kayaking through mangroves in Bradenton, hiking through coastal dunes on 30A, or spotting dolphins off Anna Maria Island, the region is rich with natural beauty.
At Best Beach Getaways, we offer top-rated vacation rentals that put you close to these incredible parks and wildlife refuges. Whether you're looking for a beachfront condo in Destin, a cozy cottage on Anna Maria Island, or a family-friendly rental in Panama City Beach, we have the perfect home for your next nature-filled adventure.