Lovers Key State Park
Manatees and dolphins in the back bay, a two-mile beach reached on foot, and a five-mile mangrove paddling trail through the tunnels.
Lovers Key is four barrier islands with a back-bay estuary that reliably holds manatees and bottlenose dolphins, both visible from the water and often from the bridge. The five-mile mangrove paddling trail is protected and shallow, and the tunnels are the kind of thing children remember. The beach is a walk from the parking areas - roughly a thousand feet over the mid-beach bridge - which keeps it quieter than the drive-up beaches nearby, but it also means carrying everything, so pack light with small children. The park took storm surge from Ian in 2022 and Milton in 2024 and services have not all come back the same: the tram is gone for good, and on-site rentals have changed hands. Bring your own boat, or ring ahead.
Pricing
$8 per vehicle (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Lovers Key State Park cost?
- Lovers Key State Park charges admission. $8 per vehicle (verify)
- What ages is Lovers Key State Park good for?
- Lovers Key State Park is best for kids ages 3 to 18+.
- Is Lovers Key State Park stroller friendly?
- No, Lovers Key State Park is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Lovers Key State Park?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Lovers Key State Park.
- How hard is Lovers Key State Park?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 4 hours.
- Is Lovers Key State Park free?
- No, there is a cost to visit Lovers Key State Park. $8 per vehicle (verify)
- What should I bring to Lovers Key State Park?
- Everything you need carried on foot - shade, water, sunscreen, binoculars
- How long does Lovers Key State Park take?
- Most families spend about 4 hours at Lovers Key State Park.
- When is the best time to visit Lovers Key State Park?
- Morning for flat paddling water and wildlife. Check what is open before a long drive.