Bay and Lake Access

Experience the best of Florida’s Emerald Coast with Travel Life Vacations, where your stay places you steps from not only the Gulf’s sugar-white beaches, but also the region’s unique bays and rare coastal dune lakes. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water or a peaceful spot to unwind, Destin, 30A, and Miramar Beach offer a variety of public access points for every kind of waterfront escape.

Destin: Where Bays and Beaches Meet


Destin is famed for its emerald waters and vibrant harbor, offering easy access to both the Gulf and Choctawhatchee Bay. Enjoy calm bay waters perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing, or explore the scenic East Pass connecting the bay to the Gulf.

  • Norriego Point Beach Park: Overlooks the East Pass and Destin Harbor, with parking, showers, and upcoming restrooms. Its calm waters are ideal for families and paddlers.
  • June White Decker Beach Park: Offers over 70 parking spaces, showers, and restrooms, with quick access to both the Gulf and nearby bay areas.
  • Henderson Beach State Park: A pristine stretch with boardwalks, pavilions, and nature trails, providing a natural backdrop for both beach and bay exploration (small entrance fee applies).


30A: Rare Coastal Dune Lakes and Gulf Access

The 30A corridor is home to some of Florida’s most unique natural features—coastal dune lakes, found in only a few places worldwide. These lakes offer a tranquil setting for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife watching, with easy access to the Gulf just steps away.

  • Eastern Lake Beach Access: Enjoy the best of both worlds as Eastern Lake meets the Gulf. The shallow lake waters are perfect for kids, paddlers, and nature lovers. Launch your paddleboard or kayak from the boat ramp and enjoy a leisurely trip across the lake to the beach.
  • Dune Lake Access Points: Several public access points along 30A provide entry to rare dune lakes, including Western Lake (Grayton Beach), Deer Lake, and Eastern Lake, each offering a peaceful alternative to the beach crowds.
  • Santa Clara, Ed Walline, and Inlet Beach Regional Accesses: These major access points offer parking, restrooms, showers, and ADA accessibility, making it easy to enjoy both the Gulf and nearby lakes.


Miramar Beach: Effortless Access to Gulf and Bay

Miramar Beach blends classic beach town charm with modern amenities, featuring multiple public access points to both the Gulf and bay waters.

  • Miramar Beach Regional Access (Pompano Joe’s): The main public access features free parking, restrooms, wash stations, and direct access to the Gulf’s emerald waters. It’s a hub for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
  • Scenic Gulf Drive Regional Beach Access: Newly built with a picnic shelter, restrooms, parking, showers, and ADA-accessible dune walkover, this spot is perfect for families and groups seeking convenience and comfort.
  • Nearby Bay Access: Several bay access points in South Walton offer boat ramps, parking, and playgrounds, making it easy to launch a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay.