Can you drive on the beach at WindMark Beach?

No

the permit area does not reach here

Gulf County only permits beach driving in two places, and WindMark is not one of them. The nearest is the Highland View access, just down Highway 98.

Here

Not permitted

Nearest

Highland View

Permit

Still required

The rule

Driving is granted, not assumed — and only in named areas.

Those beaches fronting on the Gulf of Mexico, running from Indian Pass to the East to the T.H. Stone Park in the North.

§ 8-70, Gulf County Code of Ordinances

Article III of Chapter 8 authorises beach driving only in the areas it lists, by section, township and range. WindMark is not among them, so there is no authority to drive there — permit or no permit. The same section separately includes the Highland View beach access and shoreline driving access, under the supervision of the Gulf County Sheriff’s Office.

Penalty: $500 for a first offence driving without a permit, $750 for a second, and a further $500 for obtaining access by a route other than a county designated access point.

Where you can drive

Two stretches, both a short drive.

Both need a Gulf County beach driving permit on the vehicle before you get on the sand.

Highland View — the beach access and shoreline driving access on Highway 98 towards Port St. Joe

The peninsula — from Indian Pass north-west to the entrance of T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

The permit is a numbered decal tied to one specific vehicle and runs to 31 December of the year it is issued

It comes from the Gulf County Tax Collector, by post or in person. There is no online purchase

On the sand here

What still applies even though driving does not.

The Leave No Trace ordinance covers the WindMark sand whether or not a vehicle is involved.

No glass containers of any kind on the county beaches

Holes must be filled in before you leave for the day

No overnight camping within 400 feet of any Gulf front or waterfront residence

Unattended chairs, tents and kayaks must be off the beach within an hour of sunset

More WindMark Beach rules

The other three, in the same shape.

Staying at WindMark Beach?

Rentals booked direct with the owner. No service fee.

Browse rentals

Official

Ch. 8 Art. III, Gulf County Code of Ordinances Gulf County Tax Collector — beach driving permit

Rules and regulations change. This page is intended as a general overview to help you plan your trip and is not a substitute for reading the current official rules yourself. Laws, permit requirements, and enforcement can change at any time, and this content may not reflect the most current version. It is your responsibility to verify current rules directly with the relevant city, county, or State of Florida agency. Book Direct Forgotten Coast is not responsible for citations, fines, accidents, or other consequences resulting from reliance on this page.