This Secret Florida Seaside Is Hauntingly Lovely With Driftwood That Appears Like ‘Skeletons of Timber’

Florida’s seashores are legendary. You might have these with pristine sugar-white sand and vibrant blue waters, and others are recognized for rugged, wild nature. The preferred seashores for swimming and lounging are dotted with brightly coloured umbrellas and chairs, however there are additionally these which are a bit extra distant and undeveloped. Boneyard Seaside in Massive Talbot Island State Park,  positioned simply outdoors Jacksonville, falls into the latter class.

One of many most stunning locations in Florida and one of many state’s “secret seashores,” Boneyard Seaside is the kind of vacation spot that pulls photographers and nature lovers alike. Monumental driftwood timber are scattered alongside the shore, producing a scene that’s typically in comparison with an elephant boneyard. It’s fairly much like what you’ll discover at Driftwood Seaside on Georgia’s Jekyll Island or Boneyard Seaside on Bulls Island in South Carolina; all of those barely eerie, beautiful stretches of shore have been created by a mix of water, solar, sand, and the passing of time.

Because the water channels and sand shifted round Florida’s Boneyard Seaside over the previous few hundred years, the shoreline retreated and the timber fell. Primarily dwell oak and cedar timber, the fallen giants endured the solar, sand, and wind, finally reworking into the bleached, smoothed items of artwork they’re at this time. However they’re not simply artifacts to be admired and photographed.

As they lie up and down this 3-mile stretch of shoreline alongside the Nassau Sound, they play an vital position in defending the Jacksonville space. The driftwood timber assist to blunt the results of hurricanes—and, thus, decelerate erosion—on the remaining woods and uplands. If the foundation techniques didn’t stay in place, the world can be extra uncovered to sea degree rise and the influence of storms.

To see this stunning sight in particular person, you’ll must arrive to Massive Talbot Island State Park between 8 a.m. and nightfall, ready to pay the $3 parking charge. From the Bluffs Scenic Shoreline Picnic Space, there’s a roughly half-mile hike all the way down to Boneyard Seaside—however you possibly can decide to extend your step rely as you stroll alongside the shore. If potential, attempt to time your go to for low tide, as extra of the driftwood might be uncovered; you’ll have extra room to stroll and can seemingly get higher photographs.

Whereas it’s a good suggestion to deliver water, a digital camera, and sunscreen with you, go away your pets at residence. In line with park supervisor Michelle Waterman, Boneyard Seaside is a “vital nesting habitat for sea turtles and shorebirds,” and your canine might scare them away. Swimming can also be not really useful; the Nassau Sound has sturdy currents, and there are not any lifeguards current.