Roam Salty Blog
Welcome to St. Andrews State Park!
Welcome to one of Florida’s most breathtaking hidden gems, where adventure and nature collide, offering the perfect escape from the everyday. This family-friendly park is designed with explorers in mind, featuring all the essentials—showers, restrooms, kayak rentals, food, drinks, and plenty of shaded spots to unwind after a day of discovery.
With its crystal-clear blue waters, powdery white sand, gatherings of stingrays, it’s clear why this destination embodies the essence of the Emerald Coast. The water’s color can shift depending on the weather, adding a touch of unpredictability to your adventure. For those seeking pristine, clear waters, I recommend heading to beaches with a jetty nearby—the steady flow of water tends to keep things looking picture-perfect. While I can’t promise flawless conditions, this approach has worked for me during my summer travels, allowing me to capture the stunning beauty of this coastal paradise.
As you can see, the water here is undeniably blue throughout the summer. However, it's important to note that drones are not allowed in state parks. The reason for this is simple: birds frequent these areas for breeding, and drones are seen as predators, which can drive them away and prevent them from returning. Over time, this disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Birds play a crucial role in the environment by eating fruit from trees, which helps the natural landscape thrive. So, if you're looking to capture beautiful photos like these, I highly recommend using a regular DSLR camera, just like I did! I also used a polarizing filter and an ND filter to enhance the shot. For my fellow photographers, I’d also suggest a UV filter, as the sun here can be intense, and protecting your eyes while using the viewfinder is key.
Lastly, a friendly reminder: please avoid climbing the dunes. I’ve seen this happen a lot, especially with young tourists, and many don’t realize the long-term environmental impact. The sand dunes protect the land, so let’s all do our part to leave this place better than we found it. :)
