Frank Butler Park West

Frank Butler Park West, located just short of a mile from the beach, offers scenic views of the Matanzas River and a boat ramp — great for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts.

History of Frank Butler Park West

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 Frank Butler Park West

• Boat ramp
• Grills
• Restroom facilities
• Picnic facilities

Visit Frank Butler Park West

Admission: FREE

Address: 399 Riverside Boulevard, St. Augustine, Florida 32080

Parking: There is parking in front of the site.

Other Parks Near Frank Butler Park West

Frank Butler Beachfront Park East, Fort Matanzas, and the Matanzas Inlet are all close by. 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.