Beach season will be here before you know it

St. Johns County spokesperson Karen Pan reminds Historic City News readers of the many opportunities available for beach recreation along 41 miles of beautiful coastline.

As March 1st and the beginning of beach season nears, remember that the St. Johns County beaches offer something for everyone — whether it is a family picnic on the beach or driving to a favorite surfing spot with friends.

Visitors may wish to camp overnight at Anastasia State Park, walk on miles of undeveloped beach at Guana Reserve or fish off the end of the St. Johns County Fishing Pier. In all, St. Johns County has eight beachfront parks that offer year-round free parking and beach access.

Multiple pedestrian access points are also located throughout the County. These sites host a variety of programs and events, with facilities that may be reserved for public or private events through the Recreation and Parks Office.

Additionally, St. Johns County is unique in permitting beach driving on more than 14 miles of beaches.

Residents and visitors enjoy nine vehicular access points and beach driving ramps along the St. Johns County coast.

Beach driving is free of charge October 1st through February 28th of each year, with paid access permitted March 1st through September 30th.

Paid parking and access to the beach are also available at Anastasia State Park and the Guana Tolomato Matanzas Reserve.

Beach driving passes are available now at pre-season prices of $30 for St. Johns County residents and $40 for non-residents. The passes may be purchased at the St. Johns County Pier, Tax Collector’s Offices and Recreation and Parks Office. The price increases by $10 beginning March 2nd.

Photo credit: © 2010 Historic City News freelance photographer Dave Macri