Beautiful, Close, and SECLUDED!
One of the best remedies for the kickoff of the summer is to visit a local attraction that just so happens to be stunningly beautiful, close to home, and completely free of charge. That place is known as Fort Island Gulf Beach!
Located at the end of the nine-mile-long West Fort Island Trail off Route 19, this little gem is not a tourist attraction.
This type of beach is enjoyed by locals throughout Citrus County. It is about twenty minutes from the Villages of Citrus Hills, making it perfect for a quick trip to the beach, even if you only have a few hours to enjoy your time there!
The Beach
The beach is an excellent locale for families, especially those with younger children. And, because it is located at the end of a long, windy road, this area is usually not very crowded, even on holiday weekends!
When you arrive at the beach, you will notice well-maintained restroom facilities with showers.
You will also see several covered picnic pavilions located right on the beach. Even if you have no plans to swim or even hang out at the beach, these beachfront pavilions are excellent for an afternoon picnic.
If you plan to hit the beach, you will notice that it has the type of white powdery sand that you think of when you hear about the Gulf Coast. This little beach tends to have fewer rocks and shells than other local beaches.
the Fishing
Fort Island Gulf Beach is also a great location if you are looking for a salt-water fishing spot close to home. Many kinds of fishing techniques are observed in this area.
You will see people venturing out onto the breakwater rocks that jut out into the Gulf to find the perfect spot to cast their lines.
There is also a pier that provides an even better fishing location. This is great if you want to get your line out into a bit deeper water!
the Boating
If boating is your thing, the park also has a boat ramp where you can launch your boat, wave runner, canoe, or kayak. Once again, this is one of the best locations for the Villages of Citrus Hills residents because it is so close to home. Launching your boat from here will allow you to explore the mouth of the Crystal River, the Crystal Bay itself, and, of course, the Gulf of Mexico!
The SUNSET
Like many beaches along the Gulf Coast, Fort Island Gulf Beach is a great location to watch a dramatic Gulf Coast sunset. With nothing but open water to the west of the beach, you will be amazed by how the sun sinks right into the water in the evening. There is also an excellent chance to see dolphins off the coast!
Whatever beach activities you are looking for, Fort Island Gulf Beach is an excellent option because it is close to home and somewhat secluded. If you are looking for an easy trip to the beach that won’t take an entire day, this is a great place to visit!
