Additional public beach access in Destin is coming soon thanks to a partnership between the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners, the City of Destin and the Trust for Public Land. The public is invited to celebrate a groundbreaking ceremony for Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park on July 7, 2025 at 9 a.m. at 3310 Scenic Highway 98.

This new beachfront park will offer 340-feet of additional public beach access, free parking with 49 standard spaces, three ADA accessible spaces, 29 low-speed vehicle spaces, bathrooms, four pavilions and breathtaking views of the Gulf waters.

“This is a great example of how partnerships can benefit the public,” said Okaloosa County Commissioner Drew Palmer (District 5). “Our beaches are an amazing asset that should be enjoyed by both our locals and visitors. We are fortunate to continue to expand beach access to the public as a vital part of our efforts to create opportunities for families to make memories in the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area.”

Destin Mayor Bobby Wagner said, “Through initiatives like Tarpon Beach Park, we’re safeguarding our coastal ecosystems, ensuring that the natural beauty and biodiversity of our shores remain intact for future generations to experience and cherish.”

The Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park project is Phase II of a dedicated effort by the City of Destin and Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners to effectively use tourism revenue and expand public beach access for residents and visitors with a total investment of $26.5 million shared between the City and County. Phase I includes expanded public beach access at nearby Crystal Beach, with a total project cost of $9.75 million. The total project cost for the Phase II Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park project is $16.75 million.

Trust for Public Land was the lead agency that helped negotiate the purchase of the properties for both Crystal Beach and Tarpon Beach projects.

“Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park is the result of years of collaboration to ensure that everyone can enjoy walkable access to Florida’s iconic shoreline,” said Doug Hattaway, Land Conservation Director for Trust for Public Land. “This park not only reconnects the community with a beautiful stretch of waterfront and long-closed amenities, but also reinforces our shared commitment to protecting public access to nature and preserving the unique coastal character that makes Destin so special.”

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Contact:

Tamara Young, PhD | Public Information Director, City of Destin

850.837.4242 – tyoung@cityofdestin.com

Nick Tomecek | Public Information Officer, Okaloosa County

850.651.7321 – ntomecek@myokaloosa.com