Smaller and quieter than Fred Howard right next door, no entrance fee, and the locals like it that way. A short stretch of sand, a couple of shaded benches, and a wide-open Gulf view to the west, exactly the kind of spot that doesn't make it onto top-ten lists, which is why it's still good. Pelicans dive the bait schools offshore in summer, sometimes close enough that you'll hear the smack of them hitting the water. The west-facing aspect makes this one of the rare bay-area launches where the sunset actually happens *over* the water, not behind the mangroves. Pack a small light if you stay for the show. The road back can be dark.
Where do I park, and is it free?
- Cost
- Current paddlecraft cost unknown
- Parking
- Unknown
- Restrooms
- Listed in the checked source (checked 2026-08-20)
The city lists parking, restrooms, and a boat launch. Its 2026 paid-zone rules publish parking and trailered boat-launch permit prices, but daily mobile payment is not expected until September and the rules do not state whether carry-in paddlecraft need a launch permit.
Access sources: ctsfl.us (checked August 20, 2026), ctsfl.us (checked August 20, 2026).
How clear is the water?
Cleanest on incoming tide, especially after a few dry days
What will I see?
- Pelicans diving offshore: the show is the sunset
What's the fishing like?
Snook in the beach troughs, whiting and pompano from the sand, Spanish mackerel and ladyfish nearshore in season.
How do I share the water here?
In summer the pelicans dive the bait schools just off this beach, so when you see them working a patch of water, paddle around it instead of through it and let them fish. Walk your board out past the sand and shallows before you climb on rather than churning it up where birds are feeding.
See how it scores before you drive out.
Check Sunset Beach (Tarpon) on the live map