If you want to get a parking space near the Gulf this summer, you better be an early riser. The city of Destin maintains nine public beach accesses, but parking spaces close to the dune walkovers are few and far between. Less than 20 spots are available on all of Holiday Isle, while Crystal Beach faces a similar shortage.
Parking is available, but the public has to make use of state or county facilities.
Henderson Beach State Recreation Area has parking for approximately 250 vehicles. Help is on the way, according to Destin Community Development Director Bob Franke. He said the new June White Decker Park will have significant parking as a result of the Silver Shells condominium development. The public will be able to use the five dune walkovers being built in front of Silver Shells to get to the beach. Another eight parking spaces will be constructed at the Shirah Street public beach access in Crystal Beach.