Operating Hours:
Highway 399 (J. Earle Bowden Way): 24 hours a day, year-round
Parking Lots along Hwy. 399 are closed from sunset to sunrise.
Opal Beach Facilities: 8:00 a.m. to sunset
Things to Do:
One of the most popular places to spend a summer day at Gulf Islands National Seashore. At the area, visitors can see wildlife including birds and sea turtles, picnic, swim. Picnic shelters are available for general use on a first-come, first-serve basis, but Clusters A and E can be reserved.
Entrance Fees:
Visitors must pay an entrance fee when entering the Opal Beach facilities, other beach access points do not require an entrance pass.
Safety:
There are no lifeguards at the Santa Rosa Area, except at the Opal Beach facilities during the summer months. Pack-it-In and Pack-it-Out principles is practiced at the national seahsore, so there are no trash receptacles. Glass containers and pets are not allowed on the beaches.
Directions:
From Interstate 10: Take Exit 12 for I-110 South, exit 1B Gregory Street East, merge onto 30 E Chase Street, turn left onto Bayfront Parkway /Hwy 98 East, merge onto Hwy 399 to beaches, cross toll bridge ($1.00), continue along Hwy. 399 for 6 miles, the area continues for an additional 7 miles after entering.
For more information call (850) 934-2600
Visit Gulf Islands National Seashore's other areas in Florida and Mississippi.