10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive (A1A)
North Palm Beach

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John D. MacArthur Beach State Park has the distinction of being the only state park in Palm Beach County. Like other coastal state parks in South Florida, it is a natural oasis — in this case, a 325-acre natural oasis — situated in the concrete canyon that our barrier islands have become. The focus is on the beach, of course, and the Lake Worth Lagoon. Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and fishing are the major draws.

But the hammocks, mangroves, estuaries and beach are sanctuaries for plants and animals. Shore and wading birds can be found year round within MacArthur's confines. Migratory birds in the cooler months make their way here. The Great Florida Birding Trail has made the park a stop. A boardwalk across the Lake Worth Cove connects the main part of the park with the beach — and the Dune Nature Trail, which cuts through a marine hammock. Mangroves abound on the west side of the trail. There are gumbo limbo trees, cabbage palms, wild lime, strangler figs, bays, paradise trees, poisonwood trees and more. The understory includes wild coffee and rougeberry. Crabs abound under the mangroves.

A free tram is available during certain hours to cross the boardwalk. The park is open 8 a.m. until sunset seven days a week, throughout the year. The nature center has limited hours. There are restrooms and drinking water throughout the park. Kayak rentals are available on site.

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