BLOWING ROCKS PRESERVE | FLORIDA’S WILD COASTLINE

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• THE ULTIMATE FLORIDA DAY TRIP TO HOMOSASSA, FLORIDA
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What Makes Blowing Rocks Preserve So Unique?

Most of our Florida beaches are postcard-perfect stretches of white sand as far as the eye can see. But here, craggy rocks and jagged limestone cliffs create the dramatic effect you’d expect to see in Hawaii, not the Sunshine State. It’s TRULY a special place!

When the tide is high, rough seas, and there are larger waves, the “blowing rocks” live up to their name; geyser-like sprays erupt to the heavens, making you gasp and grin at the same time.

On a GLORIOUS, sunny Florida day, you’ll find tide pools brimming with sea life and native species with a shoreline perfect for finding that perfect shell. When we visited, we played in the rain and explored the beach. No matter the weather, this is truly a Florida gem.

A Glimpse Into Blowing Rocks Preserve’s History.

Long before Blowing Rocks Preserve became one of Florida’s natural theme parks, it was just part of the barrier islands protecting Jupiter Island and Hobe Sound from one of the Atlantic’s infamous summer storms. The preserve’s dramatic limestone shoreline is made of Anastasia limestone, a type of rock that formed years ago from ancient shell and coral deposits and used as building material.

Like ALL progress in the early 20th century, and tourism booming in the Sunshine State, much of Florida’s coastline faced heavy development pressure. Resorts and condos began to creep closer to our beautiful coastlines, and natural dunes and mangroves were demolished. 

But in the late 1960s, The Nature Conservancy had enough and began protecting this special stretch of coast. Their purchase of Blowing Rocks Preserve was one of their earliest big conservation wins in Florida.

Conservation initiatives at the preserve are actively restoring mangroves, dunes, native habitats, and coastal hammocks, so this slice of Jupiter looks the way Florida’s barrier islands did long before beachfront condos showed up. That tiny $2 donation? It’s basically a backstage pass to help keep Florida WILD!

Sea Turtles & Conservation: The VIPs of Blowing Rocks.

While the waves do their thing, the real ROCKSTARS of Blowing Rocks Preserve arrive after dark. From March through October, mama sea turtles, loggerheads, greens, and the occasional leatherback, haul themselves out of the surf to dig nests in the sand. It’s our coastal maternity ward!

The Nature Conservancy keeps a close watch on these nests, protecting hatchlings on their high-stakes sprint to the sea. Be sure to check out the yearly hatching totals when you first arrive at the walk.

Pro tip: if you’re visiting during nesting season, skip the flashlights and night photography. To a baby turtle, a phone light looks like the moon, and nobody wants a lost turtle wandering toward the parking lot.

Plan Your Visit To Florida’s Wild Coastline. 

Does It Cost to Go to Blowing Rocks Preserve?

The suggested donation is $2 per person, which directly supports conservation. Honestly…it’s cheaper than your morning Frappuccino latte, and infinitely more rewarding.

Is Blowing Rocks Free?

Not exactly. While it’s not 100% free, the suggested donation makes it feel like it is. And trust us, watching the Atlantic Ocean shoot skyward through ancient rocks and adventuring on the trails is worth every single penny. We promise!

What Is the Best Time of Day to Visit Blowing Rocks Preserve?

The best time to visit is during mid- to high tide, when the waves create the dramatic spray show the preserve is famous for.

• Morning: Peaceful walks, wildlife spotting, and fewer crowds.
• Afternoon: Stronger waves = bigger sprays.

 Pro Tip: Always check the tide charts before you go. Low tide offers more tide pools but less dramatic “blowing.”

Does Blowing Rocks Preserve Have Bathrooms?

Yes! There are restrooms located near the preserve’s entrance, along with a small nature center. But keep in mind: this is more wild sanctuary, less resort. No snack bars, no showers, no cute cabana boys, so pack water and snacks.

Best Time of Year to Visit Blowing Rocks Preserve.

Blowing Rocks is open year-round, but each season brings something special:

• Winter Months & Spring: Strong surf = epic water sprays.
• Summer: Turtle nesting season (plus hotter temps).
• Fall: Fewer crowds, cooler weather, and gorgeous sunrises. 

For the PERFECT location to snap an envy-worthy INSTAGRAMMABLE pic, aim for a breezy winter morning at high tide for that perfect water spray!

Things to Do Beyond the Rocks.

There’s more to Blowing Rocks Preserve than just watching waves…EVEN though THAT’S crazy cool:

• Nature Trails: Walk shaded boardwalks through a mangrove forest, hammocks, and coastal dunes.
• Snorkeling: On calm days, the rocks are perfect for spotting fish and marine life.
• Wildlife Watching: From pelicans and ospreys to manatees and gopher tortoises.
• Photography: Sunrise + limestone cliffs + crashing waves = pure Florida magic.

Pair your trip with a stop at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse — another must-see Florida gem. Read more here.

Know Before You Go:

• Parking: Limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early.
• Shoes: Skip the flimsy flip-flops. The rocks are sharp, and your cute flip flops won’t make it!
• Tides: High tide = big sprays. Low tide = tide pools. Both are equally amazing.
• Amenities: Bathrooms + nature center. No food or drink sales.
• Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, pack out trash, and never disturb turtle nests. Snipers are watching…just kidding…maybe.

Why We Think You’ll Love It!

Blowing Rocks Preserve is one of those rare Florida spots where nature doesn’t just whisper, it roars. It’s raw, untamed, and unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing crashing waves, looking for sea turtles, or just wanting to swap a crowded beach for something spectacular, this Jupiter gem delivers.

574 S Beach Rd, Hobe Sound, FL 33455 Open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Last entry is 4:15 pm. All preserve trails and parking lots close at 4:30 pm. The preserve is closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

SAVE IT FOR LATER!

A Little Wild Is Good for the Soul.

Florida is known for its soft sandy beaches, but Blowing Rocks Preserve proves rocky edges make the best memories. Bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and two bucks for conservation. The ocean will take care of the rest. HAPPY WANDERING!