South Florida's Hidden Gem -- MacArthur Beach State Park

Want to be let in on a special secret? There is a State Park plus beach in South Florida which no one seems to know about. And it's called John D. MacArthur Beach State Park. It is a little-known gem north of Singer Island plus south of Jupiter Beach on the Atlantic Ocean. It's got gorgeous surroundings and a stunning sun-washed stretch of beach...that you might have all to yourself.

Where is this secluded Florida park and beach? It's really easy to get to!

This thoroughly amazing Florida State Park boasts a tropical dune path and a stunning beach. Urban sprawl hasn't reached its tentacles here, so the beach and the park is quiet nearly all of the year. You may not even see anyone other than the park staff!

The beach itself has a quite fascinating history, dating back when it was known as Air Force Beach during World War II. What's now Palm Beach International airport was an Air Force base years and years ago. Apparently servicemen had some pretty wild beach parties, so it was (unofficially) named Air Force Beach!

Some time afterwards, John D. MacArthur bought the island, wanting to keep an unspoiled piece of South Florida safe. He subsequently donated the land to the State during the 1970s and the park (named after him) opened to the public in 1989.

MacArthur Beach State Park is found on a barrier island, which is long and slender, separating the mainland from the ocean. Though condominiums and resorts have taken over a lot of Florida's beautiful barrier islands, not this one - it's still "au naturale"!

Be looking for sea turtles! Scarce species of sea turtles are known to make their nests here, including the endangered loggerhead and the much rarer leatherback. You likely will not catch sight of the turtles themselves however you may see proof which they actually have been around. If you'd really like to detect the turtles, there are ranger-led walks in May and June. Call for advanced reservations thru the office -- the tours are filled up early.

You could see several roseate spoonbills at MacArthur Beach State Park. What are they? Roseate spoonbills are interesting birds; their feathers are rose tinted ("flamingo pink") and the overall bottom of their bills are spoon shaped.

Birding walks are also occasionally offered, for the ornithologically inclined.

The most wonderful single factor regarding this superb Florida state park is because not many individuals come here. Possibly for the reason that there are masses of public beaches just a little to the north and also the south, MacArthur Beach State Park is quiet. Serene. And you possibly could have the entire stretch (2 miles) of beach to yourself!

By the way, you can rent single or double kayaks here, as well as paddle along with ranger-led kayak tours in the lagoon areas.

Swim the waters, snorkel the reef or maybe try one of the park's surfing clinics -- the beach holds all sorts of wonders!

South Florida's Hidden Gem: MacArthur Beach State Park

Want to know a secret? There's a State Park and beach in South Florida that no one seems to know about.

Beautiful surroundings, a gorgeous sun-splashed beach...that you might just have all to yourself.

Where is this secluded Florida park and beach? It's actually within easy reach!

Introducing...

...John D. MacArthur Beach State Park. It's a little-known gem north of Singer Island and south of Jupiter Beach on the Atlantic ocean.

This totally amazing Florida state park boasts a tropical dune trail and a beautiful beach. Urban sprawl hasn't reached here so the beach and the park is quiet most of the year. You might not even see anyone else!

The Park's Interesting Past

The beach has some interesting history, dating back when it was called Air Force Beach during World War II. What is now Palm Beach International airport was an Air Force base back then. Apparently servicemen threw some pretty wild beach parties, so it was (unofficially) named Air Force Beach!

Some time later, John D. MacArthur bought the land, wanting to keep a pristine part of southern Florida safe. He donated the land in the 1970's and the park (named after him) publicly opened in 1989.

Barrier? What Barrier?

MacArthur Beach State Park is located on a barrier island, which is long and narrow, separating the mainland from the sea. Although condominiums and hotels have taken over many of Florida's beautiful barrier islands, not this one - it's still "au naturale"!

Be on the Lookout For...

...Sea turtles! Rare species of sea turtles are known to nest here, including the endangered loggerhead and the much rarer leatherback. You probably won't see the turtles themselves but you might see evidence that they have been around. If you'd really like to see the turtles, there are ranger-led walks in May and June. Make advanced reservations through the office -- these tours are popular.

You might see some roseate spoonbills at the park. Huh? Roseate spoonbills are fascinating birds; their feathers are rose tinted ("flamingo pink") and the end of their bills are spoon shaped.

Birding tours are also occasionally available, for the ornithologically inclined.

Beaching It!

The most amazing single thing about this glorious Florida state park is that very few people come here. Possibly because there are loads of public beaches just to the north and the south, MacArthur Beach State Park is quiet. Serene. And you are likely to have the two miles of sandy beach all to yourself!

Swim the waters, snorkel the reef or even try one of the park's surfing clinics -- the beach holds all kinds of possibilities!

Want to find out more about this surprising gem (and see photos)? Check out MacArthur Beach State Park