A Florida Gem — MacArthur Beach State Park Near West Palm
Friday, January 8th, 2010
Want to know a secret? There is a State Park and beach in South Florida that no one seems to know is there. It’s called John D. MacArthur Beach State Park. It’s a little-known gem north of Singer Island plus south of Jupiter Beach on the Atlantic. It’s got gorgeous surroundings and a lovely sandy beach…that you just may have to yourself.
Where is this secluded Florida State Park plus beach? It’s truly close by!
This totally wonderful Florida State Park boasts a tropical dune trail and a beautiful beach. Urban sprawl hasn’t reached its tentacles here, so the beach and the park is quiet a good amount of the year. You may not even see anyone other than the park staff!
The beach has some interesting history, dating back when it was known as Air Force Beach throughout World War II. What is now Palm Beach International airport was an Air Force base back then. It seems that servicemen had a few pretty wild beach parties, thus it was (unofficially) named Air Force Beach!
Some time afterwards, John D. MacArthur bought the island, wanting to keep a pristine piece of South Florida safe. He subsequently donated the island to the State in the 1970s and the resulting park (named after him) publicly opened in 1989.
MacArthur Beach State Park is located on a barrier island, that is long and slim, separating the mainland from the sea. Although condominiums and hotels have taken over many of Florida’s gorgeous barrier islands, not this one – it’s still “au naturale”!
Be looking out for sea turtles! Rare species of sea turtles are known to nest here, including the endangered loggerhead as well as the much rarer leatherback. You probably will not see the turtles themselves however you might see proof that they have nested. If you’d really like to see the turtles, there are ranger-led walks in May and June. Call for advanced reservations thru the office — these tours are filled up early.
You might see several roseate spoonbills at MacArthur Beach State Park. Huh? Roseate spoonbills are intriguing birds; their feathers are rose tinted (“flamingo pink”) and the bottom of their bills are spoon shaped.
Birding tours are also sometimes offered, for those of you who are love watching birds.
The most amazing single thing about this wonderful Florida state park is that not many individuals come here. Possibly for the reason that there are hundreds of public beaches just to the north and also the south, MacArthur Beach State Park is quiet. Peaceful. Plus it’s possible you could have the beach to yourself, all two miles!
By the way, you can rent kayaks here in the park, as well as take part in ranger-led kayak tours in the lagoon areas.
Swim the waters, snorkel the reef or even try one of the park’s surfing clinics — the beach holds all kinds of fun!
Gimme More! More FREE Florida Beach Information, That Is!
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