Don Pedro Island State Park

Placida, FL

One of the coolest beaches on the west coast of Florida is at Don Pedro Island State Park. I love it because it’s unspoiled, offers bayside dockage, has epic water, is inexpensive ($2 honor box by boat) and has an entrance hidden in the mangroves.

DON PEDRO ISLAND STATE PARK

The State Park is located in between Little Gasparilla Island to the south and Palm Island to the north. It’s a beautiful spot because it’s quiet, unspoiled and boat-friendly. The park has restrooms, a shower, a picnic pavilion, grills, is pet friendly and offers kayak access as well as daily storage racks. More information about Don Pedro Island State Park can be found HERE.

HOW TO ACCESS THE BEACH

To access the beach you dock in one of the 11 slips offered. The additional slip on the left-hand side of the dock is usually reserved for the small ferry from the mainland. You can also access the beach by anchoring just off the shoreline.

WHERE TO PARK YOUR BOAT

During the months when the water is warm the ideal spot to park your boat is anchored just off the shoreline. Conversely, when the water is cooler it’s best to use the docks located on the bayside.

THE BEACH

The beach is beautiful and quiet due to it’s limited capacity for visitors. In addition, the sand is soft and white, the water is warm and inviting and the setting is completely natural.

MOST CONVENIENT BOAT RAMPS

The most convenient boat ramp to use is the ramp at Placida Park. Specific information on that ramp can be found HERE. Another good boat ramp to use is the ramp located in Englewood at Indian Mound Park.

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BOATING INFO

LAT/LONG:
26.84’62”N 82.30’36”W

SETTING:
Bay & Beach

SAND:
White, Soft Sand

BEST SPOT TO ANCHOR/BEACH:
Anchor just off the beach or utilize the public docks on the bay side

NEARBY RAMP:

Placida Park or Indian Mound Park

CURRENT:
Calm

DEPTH:
Bayside has a deep basin and channel with a narrow entrance through the mangroves.

Beach is shallow.

WAVES/WAKES:
Bayside is calm/gulfside has wind driven, small waves.

FAMILY FRIENDLY:
Yes