Manager's Message
Sea turtle nesting season at John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is underway once again and already we’re seeing impressive numbers of Leatherback sea turtle nests. Hopefully, this is an indication of another good season. With over 1,200 sea turtle nests last season, we’re hoping for great success once again.
As the season progresses, the wave energy should subside and the water temperature will rise, bringing ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions. Snorkelers will find schools of brightly colored tropical fish, crustaceans, the occasional sea turtle and much more just a short swim from the water’s edge. Ask any of the park staff for directions to the more popular snorkeling sites or set out on your own. Either way, please remember to bring a dive flag or rent one at the Nature Center.
Some additional activities for those not wanting to go to the beach include daily guided nature walks, a visit to the park’s Nature Center, kayak rentals, guided kayak tours, fishing and shopping at the Nature Center gift shop. For our younger visitors, don’t forget about our summer camps.
Check The Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park website for a complete calendar of events and programs at MacArthurBeach.org
- Don Bergeron, Park Manager
Welcome to John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
A unique mixture of coastal and tropical hammock and mangrove forest, this barrier island provides a haven for several rare or endangered native tropical and coastal plant species. The park's Nature Center shows visitors why the park is a biological treasure. Visitors can swim, picnic, and surf at the beach; scuba diving and snorkeling are also popular activities. Birdwatchers can see herons, brown pelicans, terns, sandpipers, and gulls. Anglers can fish in the lagoon by wading, kayaking, or canoeing. They can also fish from non-swimming areas of the beach. Located in northern Palm Beach County, 2.8 miles south of the intersection of U.S. 1 and PGA Boulevard on A1A.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, please call 561-624-6950.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is located 2.8 miles south of the intersection of U.S.1 and PGA Blvd. on A1A in North Palm Beach.
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$5.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
10900 S.R. 703 (A1A)
North Palm Beach, Florida 33408
Phone: 561-624-6950
Fax: 561-624-6954
Citizen Support Organization
Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park, Inc.
10900 State Road 703
North Palm Beach, FL 33408
Visitor Service Provider
Park Gift Shop
Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park, Inc.
P.O. Box 32395
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420-2395
