James Lee Park
My favorite beach!

Although James Lee Park is the farthest from my home, it is worth the drive. It became my favorite beach more than 30 years ago, and even though there has been tremendous development up and down Scenic Highway 98, it has retained its place of honor. This beach park (like many around here) uses a little commercial development to make the park better. An on-site good quality restaurant ensures the area is clean and neat.

Crystal clear water gently lapping the snow white sand

It just seems that the water is always the best there. The general area is known as Crystal Beach. I honestly do not know how it came to be known as Crystal Beach, but even when other beaches have too much seaweed (generally a day after a big storm in the gulf), this place will have very little or none. I love to snorkle here because of the clarity of the water.
You can find my favorite park on old Scenic Highway 98 at the eastern edge of Okaloosa County. You can pull into one of the 166 parking spaces, and immediately enjoy the scenic view.
You can pile your stuff on one of the 41 picnic tables under one of the 3 large pavilions, or use one of the 9 dune walkover paths to get closer to the water. There are large well maintained restroom facilities with great changing rooms available.
We generally bring our own beach chairs, blankets and coolers. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas, but I have never done so.

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