Things to Do ยท State Park / Nature Preserve

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Pristine 1,640-acre coastal preserve with towering dunes, three rare coastal dune lakes, and secluded beach access.

⭐ Rating

4.6 (600+ reviews)

📍 Location

7525 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

📞 Contact

(850) 267-8330

About Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Pristine 1,640-acre coastal preserve with towering dunes, three rare coastal dune lakes, and secluded beach access.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a hidden gem protecting 1,640 acres of pristine coastal landscape, including some of the highest sand dunes in Florida. This remarkable park showcases rare coastal dune lakes and offers a glimpse of what Florida's coast looked like before development.

Natural Features:

  • Towering Sand Dunes - Some reaching heights of 25 feet, among the tallest on the Gulf Coast
  • Three Coastal Dune Lakes - Rare ecosystems found in only a few places worldwide
  • Pristine Beach - Over a mile of undeveloped white-sand beach
  • Maritime Forest - Ancient coastal forest habitat
  • Wildlife - Sea turtles, shorebirds, and diverse coastal species

Activities:

  • Beach Access - Tram service to secluded beach (seasonal)
  • Hiking Trails - Explore coastal dune lakes and pine forests
  • Biking - Paved and natural trails
  • Fishing - Freshwater fishing in the dune lakes
  • Wildlife Viewing - Excellent bird watching opportunities
  • Photography - Stunning natural landscapes

Camping & Lodging:

  • Full-facility camping with RV sites and tent sites
  • Bungalows available for rent
  • Modern facilities with restrooms and showers

Park Information:

  • Hours: 8am until sunset, 365 days a year
  • Entrance Fee: $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 single occupant, $2 pedestrians/bicyclists
  • Location: Just east of Sandestin on Scenic Highway 30A

What Makes It Special:

  • One of Florida's most ecologically significant coastal preserves
  • Coastal dune lakes are found in only a few locations globally
  • Protection of rare and endangered species habitat
  • Peaceful alternative to crowded public beaches
  • Educational interpretive programs

Pro Tips:

  • Take the tram to the beach during summer - it's a long walk across the dunes
  • Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Visit early morning for the best wildlife sightings
  • Bring plenty of water - limited facilities once you're on trails
  • Check tram schedule if you're planning beach access

Visit Official Website

Where to stay

Two houses, ten minutes apart

Both walk to the sand. One has the private pool, the other takes the dog and the whole extended family.

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