Place · 3.2 mi away
What it’s like
A true wilderness beach on the edge of Florida Bay: sand and marl shoreline backed by mangroves and coastal prairie. It feels a world away—open horizons, wind, and the hum of an undeveloped coast. Expect little to no shade and a primitive, leave‑no‑trace setup.
Getting there
- Hike: 7.5 miles one way on the Coastal Prairie Trail from Flamingo. The path can be narrow, brushy, and sticky‑muddy after rains, with deep mud near the end.
- Boat: Canoe or kayak along the Florida Bay shoreline. Powerboats can struggle at low tide when mudflats emerge.
Why go
- Solitude is the headline—very few people make it out here.
- Big‑sky views over Florida Bay and classic coastal prairie scenery.
- Birdlife along the shoreline can be excellent, with wading birds, shorebirds, and raptors cruising the bay.
What to expect
- No amenities of any kind: no toilets, no potable water, no tables—bring everything.
- Insects are a real factor year‑round (mosquitoes and sandflies), especially when the wind drops.
- Exposure to heat and sun; plan your day so you’re not hiking the prairie in the hottest hours.
Camping and permits
This is a designated backcountry beach campsite. A backcountry permit is required and obtained at Flamingo. Most campers paddle in; hikers should be comfortable with a long, flat but tiring approach and soft/muddy sections.
Best time to visit
Dry season (roughly winter) offers the most comfortable combo of temperatures and bugs. Start early to beat heat and to ensure daylight for the return hike. For photos, late afternoon light is beautiful across Florida Bay; sunsets are stellar and the night sky can shine—just be prepared to camp or carry headlamps for the trek back. Weekdays and weekends alike are typically quiet here.
Good to know
- Check wind and tide before paddling—Florida Bay can turn choppy and mudflats appear at low tide.
- There’s also an East Clubhouse Beach nearby; make sure you navigate to the correct site.
- Pack extra water, robust insect protection (including a head net), sun gear, and plan for total self‑reliance.
Pros
- Secluded backcountry beach with wide Florida Bay views
- Reachable by a serious 7.5‑mile hike or by paddle
- Excellent birding and dark night skies
Cons
- No facilities or water; full self‑sufficiency required
- Mosquitoes and biting flies can be intense; little shade
- Muddy, exposed approach and tricky mudflats at low tide
Tips
- Get a backcountry permit at Flamingo before you go.
- Carry all drinking water—at least double what you think you’ll need.
- If hiking, start at first light; it’s 7.5 miles one way with exposure.
- Check wind and tide forecasts if paddling; the bay can get rough and shallow.
- Bring serious bug protection—repellent plus a head net pays off.
