Tucked along the stunning Scenic Highway 98, June White Decker Park offers one of Destin’s most charming beach access points. Whether you’re a longtime resident looking for a peaceful sunset spot or a visitor seeking authentic Gulf Coast beauty, this linear park delivers something special.

A Park with a Story

June White Decker Park isn’t just another beach access—it’s a piece of Destin history. Named after June White Decker, the visionary founder of the beloved Destin Fishing Rodeo, this park honors a woman who helped shape the community’s fishing heritage. What makes it even more remarkable? This stretch of paradise was once private beach property until the City of Destin acquired it in 2003, opening approximately 1,000 feet of pristine beachfront to the public. It’s a reminder that the best things in life really can become accessible to everyone.

What You’ll Find

Location: 1950 Scenic Highway 98, Destin, FL 32541

Hours: Dawn to dusk, every day

Cost: Completely free, including parking

The park itself is refreshingly simple. Above the beach, you’ll find a small trail that meanders through the coastal landscape. The amenities hit all the essentials without overdoing it—clean public restrooms, outdoor showers to rinse off the sand, a bike rack for cyclists exploring the Scenic 98 corridor, and plenty of free parking (a rarity in beach towns, and something your wallet will appreciate).

A wooden ramp leads you down to the Gulf, where sugar-white sand meets emerald waters. Here’s the insider tip: because private property borders both sides of this access point, the beach area fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Arrive early if you want to claim your spot, particularly on weekends and during summer months.

Beach Day Bliss

Once you’ve staked your claim on the sand, the Gulf of Mexico becomes your playground. Swimmers and sunbathers find their happy place here, while beachcombers discover unique shells along the shoreline. Paddleboarders glide across the gentle waves, and if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins playing in the distance or catch a glimpse of sea turtles during nesting season.

Beach volleyball enthusiasts often set up impromptu games, and anglers occasionally try their luck from the shore. The vibe is wonderfully laid-back—families building sandcastles, couples strolling hand-in-hand, friends laughing under beach umbrellas. It’s quintessential Florida Gulf Coast living.

Safety First

Before you dive in, always check the beach flag system. Destin takes water safety seriously, and these colored flags are your best friend:

• Double red flags mean the water is closed—powerful rip currents make swimming dangerous even for strong swimmers
• Check current conditions before your visit to stay safe

Also worth noting: jellyfish swarms occasionally drift through the area. It’s just part of the natural Florida beach experience, so keep an eye out and don’t panic if you see them.

Sunset Magic

Ask locals about June White Decker Park, and many will tell you it’s one of their favorite sunset spots. As the day winds down and the crowds thin out, the park transforms into a front-row seat for nature’s nightly spectacular. The sun melts into the Gulf in brilliant oranges, pinks, and purples—the kind of moment that makes you forget to check your phone and just breathe it all in.

Dining with a View

After a day of sun and surf, you’re probably ready for some good food. Lucky for you, The Back Porch sits within walking distance. This Destin institution has been serving up Gulf-to-table seafood for decades, and the ambiance—dining with your toes in the sand and waves as your soundtrack—is unbeatable. Yes, it gets busy, but even on packed nights, the wait rarely exceeds an hour, and trust us, it’s worth it.

Want more options? You’re in the heart of Destin’s restaurant row. Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill brings fun and gator sightings, Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House offers harbor views, The Edge Seafood Restaurant features a rooftop SkyBar, and Louisiana Lagniappe serves up authentic Cajun flavors. Your taste buds won’t be disappointed.

Explore the Neighborhood

June White Decker Park sits adjacent to Calhoun public beach access, giving you even more beach territory to explore. If you’re up for a short drive, Henderson Beach State Park is nearby and absolutely worth the visit. This 208-acre preserve showcases native scrub habitat, coastal dunes, and nature trails. The park features a 60-site campground for those wanting to extend their coastal adventure, and it’s an excellent spot for wildlife watching—dolphins, sea turtles, and diverse seabirds frequent the area.

The Verdict

June White Decker Park proves that bigger isn’t always better. This compact park delivers an authentic Destin beach experience without the overwhelming crowds of larger access points. It’s perfect for a quick morning swim, an afternoon of shell collecting, or an evening sunset session. The free parking and excellent amenities make it practical, while the natural beauty and fascinating history make it memorable.

Whether you’re a Destin resident who’s driven past it a hundred times or a visitor planning your first trip to Florida’s Emerald Coast, June White Decker Park deserves a spot on your beach rotation. Come early, stay late, and discover why this little slice of Gulf Coast paradise has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

Pro Tips:

• Arrive before 10 AM during summer for the best parking
• Bring your own beach umbrella—shade is limited
• Pack out what you pack in to keep this gem pristine
• Bring water shoes if you’re sensitive to hot sand
• Don’t forget your camera for those sunset shots

See you on the beach!