T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is a Florida State Park on the St. Joseph Peninsula near Port St. Joe. You want to go to this state park because this is one of the best-unspoiled stretches of coastline in the state. Among the many wonderful beaches of Florida, this one offers unsurpassed beauty, peaceful solitude, gentle wildlife, and an environment in which to unwind, relax and recharge.
Scenic Views
You can almost feel yourself saying “Ahhhh!” as you arrive, as you let the rest of the world fall away from you. You will quickly forget the workaday world. You will love wading out into the bay, where the water is so clear that at chest deep in the water, you can still count all your toes. There are more than five miles of white sandy beaches.
From the gently swaying sea oats to the sand dollars in the surf, you will discover delight upon delight. Shorebirds, songbirds, even owls, are easily seen. The wind-sculpted dunes, the towering pines, the evocative driftwood, the magnificent sunsets, all add up to a peaceful, calming retreat. This is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets; no wonder it has been dubbed “The Forgotten Coast.”
A Special Place
Your visit includes slow drives, that give you stopping points and sweeping views of the St. Joseph Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. By morning light and evening shade, the sensation you have is quietude. Think natural beauty and serenity. You will probably see some deer in the beachside thickets, or on the sugar white sands; their gentle presence only enhances what you have come to realize: This is a uniquely special place.
Outdoor Activities
There are places to boat, swim, snorkel, walk your dog, fish, picnic, and camp. Simple pleasures that offer seclusion and serenity.
No matter what roads you take, it is all back roads for miles to get to the park. The last stretch, on the peninsula leading to the park, is residential and undeveloped. Do not expect any high rises; the local zoning allows nothing taller than four stories. One of the hidden joys of this peninsula is Weber’s Little Donut Shop – stop on your way to the park and have some of their fresh baked goodness. Back on the mainland in Port St Joe, there is just enough of the main street to stroll and shop, including galleries and vintage stores. We like Sunset Coastal Grill on the Bay for a delicious traditional meal with sunset views and believe that you will, too.
Plan Your Trip
Have you taken a trip to this State Park before? If not these are breathtaking views you don’t want to miss. You can start planning your trip here. For those of you who have been here before, we’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
