
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
Discover Florida's natural beauty at this 438-acre state park, featuring pristine beaches, mangrove estuaries, and abundant wildlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for snorkeling & fewer crowds

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
Best Time
Best for snorkeling & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Florida's natural beauty at this 438-acre state park, featuring pristine beaches, mangrove estuaries, and abundant wildlife.
"A true gem for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape with beautiful beaches and scenic trails."

🚶♀️ Walk or Ride to the Beach
Enjoy the scenic boardwalk or use the free golf cart shuttle to reach the beach. :athletic_shoe: :bus:
🚲 Bring Your Bike!
Exploring the park's trails by bike is a fantastic way to see more of the scenery. :bike:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine Beach
Atlantic Ocean shoreline
Unspoiled sands and clear, calm waters perfect for relaxation and swimming.

Boardwalk Estuary Trail
Through the park's mangrove estuaries
A picturesque 1,600-foot boardwalk offering stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Nature Center
Park entrance
Informative exhibits and knowledgeable rangers providing insights into local flora and fauna.

Snorkeling Rock Reef
Left of the boardwalk, ~30 yards offshore
Discover vibrant marine life in the shallow rock reef, especially during low tide.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Boardwalk Journey
Nature's Rhythms: Best Times to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Ride to the Beach
Enjoy the scenic boardwalk or use the free golf cart shuttle to reach the beach. :athletic_shoe: :bus:
🚲 Bring Your Bike!
Exploring the park's trails by bike is a fantastic way to see more of the scenery. :bike:
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The rock reef is great for snorkeling, especially at low tide. :mask:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Florida heat can be intense; bring plenty of water, especially for the walk. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Ride to the Beach
Enjoy the scenic boardwalk or use the free golf cart shuttle to reach the beach. :athletic_shoe: :bus:
🚲 Bring Your Bike!
Exploring the park's trails by bike is a fantastic way to see more of the scenery. :bike:
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The rock reef is great for snorkeling, especially at low tide. :mask:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Florida heat can be intense; bring plenty of water, especially for the walk. :water_wave:
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
The $5 per car entrance fee is a great value for a full day of nature and beach fun. :moneywithwings:
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Keep an eye out for sea turtles, especially during nesting season. :turtle:
⚠️ Jellyfish Awareness
Be aware of potential jellyfish in the water, especially during certain times of the year. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise John D. MacArthur Beach State Park as a hidden gem, highlighting its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and affordability. The boardwalk and Nature Center are frequently mentioned as enjoyable features, though some note the long walk to the beach and occasional restroom odors. Overall, it's highly recommended for a relaxing day immersed in nature.
"Hidden gem of a state park. Really great place to take kiddos for a fun day! There is a long walk to the beach on the boardwalk but they have a golf cart shuttle that will drop you off right at the stairs to the beach.
We loved the nature center. The rangers were very knowledgeable. Highly recommend."
Ashley Lain
"Beautiful place with a great park to enjoy. The bridge can be a little unsettling now and then, and the restrooms have a strange odor, but overall it's a safe and enjoyable spot. The beach is fantastic—peaceful enough to relax but still lively enough to meet new people without feeling overcrowded. Also, I’m a fan of turtles."
Lynn Hawthorne
"Beautiful, peaceful, and full of nature — the perfect day!
We started our visit at the Nature Center, which was really cool and informative. After that, we went on a bike ride through the park — such a great way to explore the trails and take in the scenery. Then we walked over the long wooden bridge to the beach, which was an experience in itself. The view was beautiful, and you really feel surrounded by nature the whole time.
Once we got to the beach, we spent the rest of the day relaxing. The water was the perfect temperature — calm, clear, and super refreshing. It wasn’t crowded, and the whole vibe was peaceful. This park is a true gem if you’re looking for a relaxing and nature-filled day.
Highly recommend bringing a bike, some snacks, and just taking your time here. We’ll definitely be back!"
DAE DREAM Renovations LLC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located on Singer Island, just 15 minutes from Jupiter. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors recommend using GPS to navigate directly to the park entrance.
While direct public transportation to the park might be limited, consider ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles.
The park is situated on Singer Island. From I-95, take exit 76 for PGA Boulevard East. Continue on PGA Boulevard until you reach US-1 North. Turn right onto US-1 North and then left onto Northlake Boulevard. Follow Northlake Boulevard to the park entrance.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the park for a fee of $5 per car.
Yes, kayaking is a popular activity. You can launch from nearby marinas like Lake Park Harbor Marina and paddle to the park, enjoying the scenic waterways.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is a very reasonable $5 per car, making it an affordable option for a day trip.
The park typically opens at 8 AM and closes at sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for any seasonal changes or specific holiday hours.
No advance booking is usually required for general park entry. You pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the $5 per car fee is already considered a great value by visitors.
Yes, kayak rentals are available at the park, allowing you to explore the estuaries and surrounding waters.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the beach, walk or bike the boardwalk trails through the estuaries, go snorkeling, kayaking, birdwatching, and visit the Nature Center.
The walk to the beach from the parking area is about 1,600 feet along a scenic boardwalk. A complimentary golf cart shuttle is available if you prefer not to walk.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic spot for families with its calm waters, nature center, and opportunities for exploration.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, marine life in the estuaries, and potentially sea turtles.
Yes, restrooms are available, typically located near the beach area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within the park. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks or dine in nearby Jupiter or North Palm Beach.
Yes, the park has picnic pavilions, making it a great spot for a family picnic. Remember to bring your own food and drinks.
Nearby Jupiter and North Palm Beach offer various dining options, from casual eateries to Italian restaurants.
While not a permanent fixture, the park sometimes hosts events like the Sunset Market, which may feature food vendors.
It's best to pack a cooler with sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water, as dining options are limited within the park itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk offers stunning views of the estuaries and wildlife, while the beach provides beautiful ocean vistas. The Nature Center also has interesting exhibits.
Yes, the park's diverse habitats make it excellent for birdwatching and wildlife photography. Early mornings are often best for spotting active animals.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for beach photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the park's specific regulations before flying.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a wide-angle lens for the boardwalk views, and a polarizing filter for reducing glare on the water would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Estuaries and Boardwalk
Many visitors highlight the boardwalk as a key part of their visit, describing it as a beautiful and peaceful walk. It's not just a path to the beach; it's an attraction in itself, offering a chance to connect with nature. The elevated perspective allows for excellent wildlife viewing, and the sounds of the estuary create a truly serene atmosphere. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the walk can be lengthy, though a complimentary golf cart shuttle is available for those who need it.
Beach Activities and Snorkeling
A significant draw for snorkelers is the rock reef located about 30 yards offshore to the left of the boardwalk. This reef is particularly good for exploring during low tide, where you can discover a variety of marine life. Visitors recommend bringing your own snorkeling gear to make the most of this natural underwater attraction. Be mindful of potential jellyfish, especially during certain times of the year, and always check local conditions before entering the water.
Kayaking and Water Sports
Kayaks can be rented directly at the park, offering a convenient way to experience the water. Many visitors suggest bringing your own kayak or paddleboard if you have them, as it allows for more flexibility. The calm waters of the lake and estuaries are perfect for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can enjoy exploring further afield.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit