AVALON STATE PARK
One of the state's newest seaside parks, Avalon has more than a mile of increasingly rare undeveloped beachfront. The park provides habitat for many species of wildlife. Threatened and endangered sea turtles, like the loggerhead, Atlantic green, and leatherback, nest on the beach during the spring and summer. Dune crossovers protect the fragile dune ecosystem. We welcome swimmers, snorkelers, fishermen and sunbathers for beach recreation.
Swimmers and snorkelers are advised to be cautious of underwater obstacles left behind by amphibious warfare exercises during World War II.
Visitors can enjoy a meal at sheltered picnic tables overlooking the beach.
Located along A1A on North Hutchinson Island in St. Lucie County, four miles north of Ft. Pierce Inlet State Park.
NATURE OF THE AREA
Plant Life
Several protected species of plants (listed by Federal, State or the Florida Natural Areas Inventory) may be found within the boundaries of the Avalon tract. These include: giant leather fern, inkberry, nakedwood and coastal vervain.
SWIMMING
Swimming
Swimming is permitted in the Atlantic; however caution should be exercised when entering the ocean in the vicinity of the park. Numerous underwater obstacles, made of concrete and steel, were deposited offshore by the United States Navy during World War II for training purposes. While some of these obstacles have been removed, those that remain can cause serious harm to the unsuspecting swimmer, snorkeler or surfer. Please swim at your own risk. No lifeguards are on duty.
BEACHES
Park visitors can enjoy the great beauty of our beach that we are well-known for. The beach offers a firm sandy bottom and a beautiful view of the Florida coastline. Take a leisurely stroll and find the 'gems' we call seashells in a variety of beautiful shapes and colors.
CANOEING
Canoe/Kayak
You can launch you canoe/kayak from the beach side. However, you must carry them 30-40 yards to the water. All water actives are conducted at your own risk. There are no lifeguards on duty
FISHING
Fishing
If you like to fish, this is one of the hottest places you can fish from land! At certain times of the year, you may see fish migrating along the coast. You can catch various species of fish including Bluefish, Snook, Red/Black Drums, Pompano, Permit and Whiting. All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season. Non-residents of Florida must purchase a Florida license to fish from shore.
SNORKELING
Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity, weather permitting. Snorkelers can enjoy the beautiful tropical sea life that awaits them below. Most of year, our waters are so clean you just might think you?re in the Bahamas!
Caution should be exercised when entering the ocean in the vicinity of the park. Numerous underwater obstacles, made of concrete and steel, were deposited offshore by the United States Navy during World War II for training purposes. While some of these obstacles have been removed, those that remain can cause serious harm to the unsuspecting swimmer, snorkeler or surfer. Please swim at your own risk. No lifeguards are on duty.
PICNICKING
Picnicking
The park offers four medium-sized pavilions with barbecue grills located off the main parking area. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Electric and water are not available.
TRAILS
Our coastal hammock, located on the west side of A1A, is open to visitors. You must park outside the gate and walk in because of the low marsh areas. This is an excellent place for bird watching. You can see many native trees including the Gumbo Limbo, Red Bay, Live Oak and Mangrove.
DIRECTIONS
The park is located four miles north of Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, via Highway A1A and the North Causeway.