ExploreMacArthur Beach State Park

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is a beautifully preserved coastal park in Palm Beach County, Florida. It spans roughly 438 acres of diverse habitats, both on land and underwater, encompassing beaches, estuaries, tropical hammocks, dunes, and mangrove-lined waters. The park was established in 1989, though the land’s preservation dates back to the 1970s when philanthropist John D. MacArthur donated portions of it to protect the area from development. His foresight ensured that this natural barrier island ecosystem would remain a sanctuary for future generations.

One of the highlights of MacArthur Beach State Park is its network of pristine natural environments. A long wooden boardwalk stretches across the brackish estuary, offering views of mangroves, seagrasses, and wading birds. On the barrier-island side, visitors can wander through maritime hammocks where native trees like gumbo limbo, wild coffee, strangler fig, and cabbage palm thrive. Wildlife is abundant throughout the park — you might spot ospreys circling overhead, turtles nesting on the beach, or rays gliding through shallow coastal waters.

For recreation, MacArthur Beach offers nearly 1.6 miles of unspoiled Atlantic shoreline perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The calm estuary invites paddlers to explore by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, with rentals available on-site. Adventurers often make their way to Munyon Island, a small wilderness island accessible only by water, where they can picnic and observe rare coastal flora and fauna. Fishing is permitted in designated zones, and a 1.3-mile nature trail leads hikers through shaded hammock terrain rich with tropical vegetation.

The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, year-round, and welcomes visitors to experience its tranquil beauty. Entrance fees are modest — a small per-vehicle fee grants access for up to eight people (hours & fees info). Pets are allowed in limited areas on leash, though not on the beach or boardwalks (park rules & directions). Guests are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this delicate ecosystem for future visitors. Please complete the form below and I will be happy to send more information and homes near this fabulous location!