WATER & COAST

John Beasley Park Beach

Okaloosa County · Panhandle & Emerald Coast

1550 Miracle Strip Parkway on Okaloosa Island, opened in 1960, and during segregation it was the only beach in the area open to Black residents. It is named for John C. Beasley, a civic leader. Boardwalk access down to the sand, two pavilions with the west one reservable in two-hour blocks for a fee, restrooms, and 200 parking spaces with eight accessible ones. The lots fill in season and the county asks people to share rides.