Mashes Sands Beach
Panacea, FL
Mashes Sands Beach sits on a small peninsula six miles south of Panacea, with Ochlockonee Bay on one side and Apalachee Bay on the other, surrounded by salt marsh that draws real numbers of wading birds. It's one of Wakulla County's few genuine swim beaches on a stretch of Big Bend coast better known for grass flats than sand.
Being a genuine sand swim beach on a coastline mostly made of marsh and grass flats makes it a real local favorite, though the bare-bones amenities and storm-damaged pier reflect its small, remote character.
How we score beachesAmenities are minimal, a mobile restroom is the extent of it, so come prepared with your own shade and water. The fishing pier has been closed and under rebuild since Hurricane Michael, check current status before planning a trip around it.
Parking is available at the beach and the adjacent boat ramp.
The beach is a short, flat walk from the parking area.
Dogs are allowed on a leash at this Wakulla County park beach under the county's general leash ordinance.
Winter is mild with the thinnest crowds on this remote stretch of coast. Summer brings the warmest water and hurricane season, June through November.
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