Imagine sitting on a blanket with a basket full of snacks on a sunny, cool afternoon. The Emerald Coast calls you to a slower kind of day where you let the sound of the waves set the pace.
Picnic days at the coast stretch across seasons. With peaceful parks, quiet bays, and miles of open beach, this part of Florida is made for mellow moments—good food shared with good company. All it takes is the right spot and a few smart tips to pack like a local.
Best Picnic Spots
Here are five laid-back locations perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying the view.
Eden Gardens State Park – Santa Rosa Beach
Historic bayfront park with shaded tables, moss-draped oaks, and views of Tucker Bayou. Includes restrooms, grills, and garden access. It opens daily from 8 AM up to sunset.
Henderson Beach State Park – Destin
Popular beach park with covered pavilions, dunes, restrooms, and nature trails. This park is ideal for a full beach day.
Camp Helen State Park – Inlet Beach
Peaceful setting between the Gulf and Lake Powell. Enjoy a picnic near the lake with trails and beach access.
— Chef Jim Shirley
Fort Walton Landing Park – Fort Walton Beach
Waterfront park with open lawns, has shaded tables, a playground, and a pier. This one is great for casual lunches. It's free and open year-round!
Gulf Islands National Seashore – Okaloosa Area
Undeveloped stretch of beach with wide views and native vegetation. No shelters, so bring your own gear. The place is open from sunrise to sunset.
What to Pack?
- Cooler or insulated tote to keep seafood, fruit, and drinks fresh
- Beach blanket or low chairs for comfort on sand or grass
- Sunscreen, hats, and bug spray, especially in wooded areas
- Reusable utensils and napkins for a low-waste setup
- Trash bags to clean up after your meal
- Frozen water bottles that chill your cooler and double as drinks
- Portable games or a good book for lounging after lunch
Stop by local farmers markets in Seaside, Grand Boulevard, or Destin Commons to stock your basket with seasonal finds like fresh berries, local cheeses, baked goods, and more!
Plan Your Picnic with Rentalz
If you wish to stay close to your favorite picnic spot, Rentalz makes it easy to find vacation homes right near the beaches, parks, and bayfronts you'll want to explore.
Pack light, eat well, and let the day stretch out as long as the shoreline.
