Henderson Beach State Park is located in the heart of Destin, Florida. It’s directly across the street from Super Wal-Mart (in case you forgot your sunscreen, beach towel, or need a skimboard) and Hooters ~ for those ‘after the beach’ wings that are a must.

Despite its proximity to civilization, I love going to Henderson Beach. It’s gorgeous, and because it’s a State Park and an entrance fee is required ($3-4 depending on how many people are in your car) it’s not nearly as crowded as the public beaches. The cost is well worth it.

The state has maintained a buffer of natural vegetation so once on the beach, you really don’t see or hear much of the bustle of the commercial enterprises just over the berms.

Forecasts for today call for temps to climb into the mid-70s, no clouds and a slight breeze. The tourists have gone home so you may only see a couple stragglers on the beach. Other than that, we should have the place all to ourselves.

Forget what you’ve heard about coming to the Sunshine State in the summer. Wait until after Labor Day. Our population can swell by tens of thousands during the high summer months. Inevitably they will all come on the same weekend you do.

By the end of September the crowds are gone, the locals are back in school or at work, and the weather is still glorious. You can also find Gulf view accommodations for less than 1/2 of peak season prices.

Fall is the time to visit Florida.