Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, containing coastal dunes, hardwood swamps, and mangrove forests. These different habitats create a mix of land and water environments across the grounds.

Chicago lawyer Hugh Taylor Birch purchased the beachfront property in 1893 and later built his Art Deco residence Terramar in 1940. These structures remain as records of how this coastal area developed over time.

The park serves as a place where locals and visitors connect with coastal nature through daily activities like walking and fishing along the water's edge. People use the shoreline and trails to experience the rhythm of living between ocean and waterway.

Visitors can use walking trails, bike paths, fishing spots, and canoe rentals with beach access throughout the day until sunset. The various activities spread across the grounds, so comfortable shoes help with exploring different areas.

More than 200 bird species live in the park, including wading birds and hawks, while gray foxes returned to the area in 2015. These animal encounters show how nature is reclaiming this place.

Location: Florida

Inception: 1941

Website: http://floridastateparks.org/hughtaylorbirch

GPS coordinates: 26.14500,-80.10500

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:52