Parks+Rec

Destin, Okaloosa County to break ground on new Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park on July 7

Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park will add 340 feet of public beach access, 49 parking spaces and four pavilions to the area.

Jared Williams

A groundbreaking ceremony for Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park will take place July 7 at 9 a.m. at 3310 Scenic Highway 98, kicking off the beginning of construction on a new public beach access point.

The partnership between the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners, the City of Destin and the Trust for Public Land will create a beachfront park offering 340 feet of additional public beach access.

The facility will include free parking with 49 standard spaces, three ADA accessible spaces, 29 low-speed vehicle spaces, bathrooms, four pavilions and 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 emphasized the environmental benefits of the project. “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,” Wagner said.

The future site of Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park sits between Scenic Highway 98 and the Gulf in Destin, Fla. The $16.75 million project will include free parking, bathrooms, four pavilions and additional public beach access. (Okaloosa County)

The Tarpon Beach project represents Phase II of a broader initiative to expand public beach access using tourism revenue. The total investment between the city and county amounts to $26.5 million. Phase I included expanded public beach access at nearby Crystal Beach, with a project cost of $9.75 million. The Phase II Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park project costs $16.75 million.

Trust for Public Land served as the lead agency in negotiating the purchase of properties for both the 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.”

The public is invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony next week.

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