T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park - Port St. Joe, Florida • Cape San Blas

 

There is something special about finding a beach that still feels wild and untouched, and that is exactly how we felt visiting T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. If you love uncrowded shorelines, wildlife sightings, and that peaceful “old Florida” charm, Cape San Blas might quickly become one of your favorite places. We spent the day wandering miles of bright white sand, spotting deer, and watching fish dart through the clear bay water — the kind of simple moments that make you slow down without even trying. It is the kind of place where you linger for sunset and leave already looking forward to your next visit.

The St. Joseph Peninsula is famous for its powder-white sand beaches and towering dunes along the Gulf side, while the bay side features quiet marshes and shallow waters rich with marine life. The park supports an impressive range of wildlife and serves as an important habitat for beach-nesting birds like the snowy plover, several species of sea turtles, and one of the last remaining core populations of the endangered St. Andrews beach mouse.

The water here is often crystal clear, making it easy to spot fish, crabs, and other sea creatures — especially along the calm bay shoreline.

There’s plenty to do here, from camping and hiking to snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and some of the best shelling along the coast.

The bay side is shallow and calm, making it ideal for kids and for spotting sea life up close. The Gulf side is known for excellent shelling and long, scenic walks along the shoreline. Keep your eyes open — deer are commonly seen roaming the park.

Hiking Trails

If you’re in the mood to stretch your legs, the park has a couple of great trails that let you experience a different side of the peninsula beyond the beach.

Bayview Scenic Trail (1.6-mile loop)
This easy-to-moderate loop on the bay side takes you through peaceful pine flatwoods with an open canopy, low vegetation, and seasonal wildflowers. Along the way, you’ll find access points to the shoreline of St. Joseph Bay, making it a nice mix of forest and water views.

Wilderness Preserve Trail (6 miles out-and-back)
For something a little more adventurous, this trail in the northern part of the peninsula offers a longer, more challenging hike through deep, powdery white sand. The landscape here feels wild and untouched, with coastal plants like twisted sand pines, rosemary, and saw palmettos lining the path.

Visitor Information

Location:
8899 Cape San Blas Road, Port St. Joe, FL 32456

Phone:
850-227-1327

Hours:
The park is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. until sunset.

Entrance Fees:
Admission is $6 per vehicle for up to eight people, $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, and $2 for pedestrians or bicyclists.

Pets:
Pets are welcome in the park but are not allowed on the beaches.

Whether you are planning a camping trip, a family beach day, or simply a peaceful walk surrounded by nature, St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is one of those places that still feels wild, quiet, and wonderfully untouched — the kind of Florida many visitors do not realize still exists.