Activity
Conditions
Amenities
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp is a public boat ramp on Apalachee Bay near Saint Marks, Florida. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.
At a Glance
Water Body
Bay
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Fee
5
Hours
6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Activities
Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Limited
Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Launch into Apalachee Bay near Saint Marks, Florida. Beginner level with sheltered and tidal water.
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp sits on Apalachee Bay in Florida, providing a launchpoint where sheltered bay waters meet tidal currents.
Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. SUP enthusiasts will appreciate the sheltered conditions for flatwater paddleboarding. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.
Expect sheltered and tidal conditions on the water. The best time to visit is Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms and ada accessible.
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp sits about 10 min from Saint Marks, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm bay waters make St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.
- •Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.
- •Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.
- •Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp?
- St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp is a public boat ramp in Florida. The entrance fee is 5. Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- What activities are available at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp?
- St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp?
- The best time to paddle at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
- What are the water conditions at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp?
- Water conditions at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp include sheltered, tidal.
- Is St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp good for beginners?
- Yes, St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge - Lighthouse Point Boat Ramp is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 30.0786, -84.1779
Quick Facts
- State
- Florida
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~10 min from Saint Marks
30.0786, -84.1779
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