WATER & COAST
Gulf Islands National Seashore Beach
Santa Rosa County · Panhandle & Emerald Coast
The undeveloped middle of Santa Rosa Island, on Highway 399, named J. Earle Bowden Way, which runs about six miles from the toll bridge and another seven beyond it. The road is open around the clock all year. The Opal Beach complex on it opens 8 a.m. to sunset, with restrooms, outdoor showers, parking, pavilions and summer lifeguards. Pavilions can be reserved ahead, and a gathering of more than 26 needs a permit. Park in the marked lots only: no roadside parking, no driving on the sand, no overnight stays, no room for motor homes. An entrance fee applies and the park takes no cash: $25 a vehicle for seven days, for up to six people and good at Opal Beach, Johnson Beach and Fort Pickens, $15 a person on foot or bicycle with children under 16 free, or $45 for the year. There are no stores. Bring what you need. No pets.
Not identified in this guide as an officially clothing-optional beach. This is a visit category, not a safety rating—check surf, lifeguards, water quality and posted rules.
BEACH CONDITIONS
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