A Favorite Destination for Locals and Visitors
Frank Butler Beachfront Park East, just two miles south of St. Augustine Beach along the scenic A1A, offers a peaceful coastal escape with full amenities and space for various outdoor activities. The park preserves the delicate dune ecosystem, providing a habitat for species like the endangered Anastasia Island beach mouse and the gopher tortoise.
Its expansive shoreline and convenient location make it a favorite destination for locals and visitors seeking a quieter beach experience.
Combining Historical Significance with Natural Beauty
The park's name honors Frank B. Butler, a prominent African American businessman and a key figure in St. Augustine's Civil Rights Movement. In the 1960s, Butler Beach became a landmark in the struggle for equality. Although beaches were technically desegregated by law, systemic racism and segregation persisted in practice. A moment occurred in June 1964, when a "wade-in" demonstration here sparked violence and multiple arrests.
The event gained national media attention and prompted Martin Luther King Jr. to come to St. Augustine. This helped galvanize support for the Civil Rights Act, which was signed into law later that year. The park is a tribute to that legacy, combining natural beauty with historical significance.
Where Pets and Owners Can Soak Up the Sun
Today, Frank Butler Beachfront Park East amenities are designed to enhance the visitor experience. These include on-beach driving, restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic facilities, and a boardwalk allowing easy beach access while protecting the dunes.
Lifeguards are present seasonally to ensure swimmer safety, and for those looking for a unique experience, horseback riding is permitted on the beach with the proper permits. The park is also dog-friendly, welcoming leashed pets to enjoy the sand and surf alongside their owners.