Frank Butler Beachfront Park East

Frank Butler Beachfront Park East, located just two miles south of St. Augustine Beach, offers a quiet beach with full facilities and room for many activities. The park is dedicated to preserving the sensitive dune system, which is home to the endangered Anastasia Island beach mouse and the gopher tortoise.

The park's expansive shoreline and location on scenic A1A, south of the Mary Street Ramp, make it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

History of Beachfront Park East

Butler Beach, Florida, played a significant role in the struggle for civil rights in the 1960s. The beach is named after Frank B. Butler, a local African American businessman and leader in St. Augustine's Civil Rights Movement. Though St. Augustine beaches were desegregated by law at the time, the reality couldn't have been more different. The "wade-in" that was held at St. Augustine Beach in June 1964 led to a violent confrontation and several arrests, which attracted national media attention. It also influenced Martin Luther King Jr. to come to St. Augustine, all of which led to the signing of the Civil Rights Act later in the year.

Amenities at Beachfront Park East

• On-beach driving ($)
• Restroom facilities
• Shower facilities
• Picnic facilities
• Boardwalk
• Lifeguards on duty (seasonally)
• Horseback riding ($)

Note: Dogs on leashes are allowed at Butler Beach.

Visit Beachfront Park East

Admission: FREE. See "Reservations" section below for what amenities require fees.

Address: 5860 A1A South, St. Augustine, Florida 32080

Parking: There is parking in front of the site.

Reservations: To make picnic reservations or if there are further questions about additional fees/permits at Beachfront Park East, call (904) 209-0331.

Other Parks Near Beachfront Park East

Frank Butler Park West, Fort Matanzas, Matanzas Inlet, and the Matanzas State Forest are only a short drive away. Check our local Parks Directory for other options in the surrounding area.

This map shows beach access points on all the beaches maintained by St. Johns County, and will note the walkover points and footbridges that are currently closed.