Activity Overview
Explore the wilderness at the Big Talbot State Park, located a few miles east of Jacksonville. The quiet and deserted beach is a pleasant surprise especially when compared to Florida's highly commercial beaches. However, since this is a protected area, visitors are not allowed to swim but you can dip your toes and wade in the water. Big Talbot is known for fallen cedar and oak trees lying in the area aptly called as the Boneyard Beach.
Things to Do
- Go for a hike or bring your bike. From the parking area, you'll find trails leading to the beach. There's also a paved path perfect for biking. The trails will lead you to a dirt path, through the greenery, until you reach the beach.
- Make your way towards the beach and explore the Boneyards Beach, the Bluffs Beach Walk, and the Blackrock Beach. Take photos of the amazing driftwood strewn by the beach due to erosion. Kids are specially astonished with the tree trunks that look like elephant tusks.
- Spot wildlife and go birdwatching or fishing. You might see herons, pelicans, and egrets by the shore and the marshes. If kids are tagging along, they will surely love walking by the beach and finding shells.
- Have lunch at one of the pavilions in The Bluffs overlooking Nassau Sound. Visitors can use the picnic tables and grills.
Big Talbot Island State Park Insider Tips
- Dogs are not allowed.
- No restrooms in the area. Plan accordingly.
- Pay $3 per vehicle for the parking fee.
