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Black, rock-like formations mark this unusual stretch of beach. Kayaking the Intracoastal Waterway is one of the many popular recreational activities here. Wading birds pick their way through Spoonbill Pond. Bluffs picnic area is a shady spot near the water to sit and rest a spell.
Big Talbot Island State Park
The sunrise over Sarabay spreads soft red light over the marsh.
The old sign at Big Talbot Island welcomed guests to fishing, scenic trails and nature study, all of which are still available today. Old Sign
Boaters launch their craft from the boat ramp. Boat Ramp
The old bench at the Bluffs picnic area looks out on Nassau Sound. Bluffs Bench
Relaxed anglers lounge in their folding chairs at the Bluffs. Bluffs Fishing
Bone Yard Beach is scattered with interesting rock formations and bleached-white trees. Bone Yard Beach

History and Culture

Native Americans were the first humans to hunt and fish these barrier islands. In 1562, the French Huguenots arrived and named them the `Timucua". Over the next 200 years, the French, English and Spanish lived here. In 1735, General James Oglethorpe named the Talbot Islands in honor of Charles Baron Talbot, Lord High Chancellor of England. In 1845, Florida became the 27th state.

The old sign at Big Talbot Island welcomed guests to fishing, scenic trails and nature study, all of which are still available today.

Old Sign

Big Talbot Island today is a great place to go fishing, kayaking, boating or strolling along the undisturbed trails and beaches. Thousands of years ago, however, the island was home to Florida's most ancient people. By the time Europeans arrived in the 16th and 17th centuries, the Timucua people populated the island. Unfortunately, by the late 18th century, most of the Timucua had perished. The Talbot Islands, named for Charles Baron Talbot, Lord High Chancellor of England, were converted into lucrative plantations by the Europeans who settled here.

Boaters launch their craft from the boat ramp.

Boat Ramp

The boat ramp at Big Talbot Island offers access to the Intracoastal Waterway, Nassau Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Boaters can enjoy plying the waters or casting a line - the park is known for its good fishing.

The old bench at the Bluffs picnic area looks out on Nassau Sound.

Bluffs Bench

The area of Big Talbot known as the Bluffs has been subject to many years of erosion. As a result, the amenities of the spot are constantly changing. Although this old bench is no longer here, folks can enjoy the Bluffs and the beautiful views from the picnic area.

Relaxed anglers lounge in their folding chairs at the Bluffs.

Bluffs Fishing

Anglers in search of a good catch often take to the waters in their boats and canoes. Those who prefer to remain on land, however, might enjoy casting a line from the Bluffs, which have always been a good, yet quiet spot for fishing.

Bone Yard Beach is scattered with interesting rock formations and bleached-white trees.

Bone Yard Beach

Big Talbot Island has eroded over time, creating 30-foot bluffs and toppling trees onto the beach. After years of being washed by salt water and bleached by the sun, these trees become white and bone-like, leading to the name Bone Yard Beach.