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Henderson Beach State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 8,882 Google reviews · Running trail in Destin, Florida · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Henderson Beach State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Beach haven featuring a boardwalk & a pet-friendly nature trail, plus a playground & campground.
What runners say about Henderson Beach State Park
“The sand was very clean and didn’t smell bad like other beaches do.”
“You can relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, then switch it up with a quiet walk through nature all in the same spot.”
“Very nice park, plenty of parking, pavilions with grills, and the best part not crowded or noisy.”
“Family friendly beach if you aren’t afforded a private beach.”
Henderson Beach State Park My Fiancée and I visited on March 23, 2026. If you’re in the Destin area and want that perfect mix of beach and nature, Henderson Beach State Park is easily one of the best spots you can visit. This place isn’t just a beach—it’s an experience. The first thing that stands out is the sand.
One of my best one in whole florida beaches. Before henderson , I love siesta key. But after being to henderson, this is my first favorite one. It's so clean and I love the atmosphere. There will be a little traffic when entering. The entree fee was $6 per car with 6-8 people.
Campsites are big, mostly pull through, some with shadow, some with more sun. long boardwalk to the white sandy beach. hwy 98 (6 lanes) really close. more noisy: helicopter and 2-3 flights of air force jets. to stay during the day is not really relaxing.
Campground is very nice, clean and well kept. Facilities are clean and easily accessible. Great walking trails and an absolutely gorgeous beach with multiple access paths. Pets welcome in the Campground but not on the beach.
Trail conditions & character
“You can relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, then switch it up with a quiet walk through nature all in the same spot.”
“There are bathrooms, outdoor showers, and easy access points to the beach, which makes it convenient whether you’re just stopping by or spending the whole day there.”
“Very nice park, plenty of parking, pavilions with grills, and the best part not crowded or noisy.”
“Very nice park, plenty of parking, pavilions with grills, and the best part not crowded or noisy.”
“Facilities are clean and easily accessible.”
Plan your run at Henderson Beach State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitefloridastateparks.org
- Phone(850) 837-7550
Running trails near Destin
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Calhoun Beach Trail
4.3 ★★★★☆ 9 reviews
Main Street Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 102 reviews
Peaceful, compact park with picnic tables, an on-water pier and fishing dock for casting a line.
Mattie Kelly Park and Nature Walk
4.3 ★★★★☆ 344 reviews
Fishing & crabbing are popular at this bayou wetlands preserve with a pier & picnic area.
Clement Taylor Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 466 reviews
Waterside public park with grills, picnic tables, a beach volleyball court & public bathrooms.
Captain Leonard Destin Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 327 reviews
Beach, boardwalk and playground park offering kayaking, fishing and snorkeling, along with picnic sites and a splash pad.