Shell Point Beach
Crawfordville, FL

Shell Point Beach looks out over Apalachee Bay, a quiet, uncrowded stretch of sand that recently got its first real parking signage and enforcement to organize the 82 free spaces along the shore. It's a low-key alternative to the busier beaches further from Tallahassee.
Free parking and genuine quiet make it a solid nearby option for Tallahassee day-trippers, though the recent parking enforcement changes and unclear pet rules are worth checking on ahead of a visit.
How we score beachesCheck current signage for the pet policy before bringing a dog, sources conflict and Wakulla County has been actively updating rules and enforcement here. There's no ADA parking, worth knowing ahead of time if that's a consideration.
Parking is free, with 82 spaces, though there's no ADA parking.
The beach is a short, flat walk from the parking area.
Dogs are allowed on a leash at this Wakulla County 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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