If you think hiking in Florida is all swamps and flat trails—think again.
This state is packed with coastal parks where you can hike with salty air in your lungs and ocean views around every corner.
We’re talking trails weaving through sea oat-covered dunes, shady coastal hammocks, and even an old bridge with sweeping views.
Whether you’re looking for a quick walk with your feet in the sand or a longer hike with surprise wildlife sightings, these parks are total gems.
Ready to find your next favorite hike-with-a-view spot?
Let’s check out 7 state parks in Florida that seriously bring the ocean vibes.
1. Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park sits just 30 minutes northeast of Jacksonville and is one of the last undeveloped barrier islands in Florida.
It’s known for its more than 5 miles of white sand beaches, salt marshes packed with birds, and a 4-mile Dune Ridge Trail that winds through ancient sand dunes, maritime forests, and swaying sea oats.
You might spot a gopher tortoise, marsh rabbits, or even a bobcat, especially at dawn and dusk.
Fun fact: the island’s shoreline constantly shifts due to wind and tides, so the beach literally changes shape over time!
2. Anastasia State Park
Just a quick hop over from historic St. Augustine, Anastasia State Park brings both beach views and wild coastal beauty.
It’s home to over 1,600 acres of protected land, with a 4-mile shoreline and the super scenic Ancient Dunes Nature Trail, a 0.7-mile loop through shady hammocks and twisty oaks.
You’ll hike past sandy dunes, hear ospreys overhead, and maybe even spot a roseate spoonbill strutting through the marsh.
Bonus: after your hike, you can rent a kayak, grab lunch at the on-site Island Beach Grill, or chill on the beach with your toes in the sand.
3. Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area
Just a 50-minute drive from Anastasia State Park, Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area is tucked between the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway in Flagler Beach.
This spot is all about oceanfront hiking, with the 0.75-mile Joe Kenner Nature Trail leading through a coastal hammock and giving you peekaboo views of the water.
It’s named after a Florida folk singer who loved the outdoors, and there’s even a memorial honoring him near the campground.
The beach here is known for its coquina sand (that’s crushed shells, not your average stuff), and it’s one of the few parks where you can camp right next to the waves.
4. Sebastian Inlet State Park
Next up is Sebastian Inlet State Park, where the Atlantic meets the Indian River Lagoon and the views seriously deliver.
This park has a 1-mile Hammock Trail that winds through coastal forests with palms, sea grapes, and tons of shade before opening up to breezy ocean views.
It’s also a hot spot for surfers thanks to “First Peak,” one of Florida’s most famous surf breaks.
If you’re into fishing, bring a rod because there’s a massive jetty where people reel in snook, redfish, and Spanish mackerel all year long.
5. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
About 20 minutes from West Palm Beach, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park feels like stepping into a whole different world—one filled with mangroves, boardwalks, and crystal-clear ocean views.
Start with the 1.3-mile Satinleaf Trail, a shady path lined with sea grapes and tropical trees, then cross the wooden boardwalk over a lagoon to reach the beach.
This is the only state park in Palm Beach County, and it’s famous for its rare tropical hammock and nesting sea turtles in summer.
The park also rents out kayaks, so if you’re up for it, you can paddle through Lake Worth Lagoon before or after your hike.
6. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
At the southern tip of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park brings serious views and a whole lot of history.
You can walk or bike the 1.5-mile paved trail that loops past sea dunes, swaying palms, and the park’s star attraction: the 95-foot Cape Florida Lighthouse, built way back in 1825.
Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Atlantic and Biscayne Bay—it’s one of the best photo ops in the whole park.
After your hike, cool off in the calm, clear water or grab a bite at the Lighthouse Café just steps from the sand.
7. Bahia Honda State Park
And finally, way down in the Lower Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is a total show-off with its crystal-clear waters and postcard-perfect views.
The short but steep 0.4-mile Old Bahia Honda Bridge Trail takes you up to a historic railway bridge overlook with jaw-dropping views of the entire island.
This place is a favorite for snorkeling, swimming, and watching the sunset light up the old bridge like something out of a dream.
It’s also a great spot in the Keys for spotting sea turtles, especially in the shallow, clear waters near Calusa Beach.
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