One of the Best Coastal Dune Lakes - Big Redfish Lake on 30A

What Makes Big Red Fish Lake Special

Big Redfish Lake is one of the area's 15 rare coastal dune lakes. This small to mid-size lake ranks #3 for salinity. The lakes are brackish (salt and fresh water mix) and what truly makes them special is their relationship with the Gulf. They are mostly freshwater and filled from rain and water from the Florida aquifer. When the lake reaches a certain level, the water pushes through the sand at the outfall and spills into the Gulf, causing a mix of fresh and saltwater. The lake becomes home to both fresh and saltwater species. When the lake is open, anglers have the opportunity to catch freshwater bass as well as saltwater pompano in the same lake. When the lake is open, the tea-colored water, which is clean but stained due to tannins, spills into the clear waters of the Gulf, and is often mistaken as "dirty water." In reality, this clean, tea-colored lake water is a natural occurrence that has been taking place for hundreds of years. View video of outfall here. 

What You Can Do on the Lake

Big Redfish Lake offers a variety of opportunities for relaxation and fun on the water. From a leisurely paddle and peaceful wildlife watching to active paddling and fishing, Big Redfish Lake is the heartbeat of Blue Mountain Beach. Kayaking and paddleboarding are especially popular due to the lake's calm waters. Guests may rent stand-up paddle boards that are delivered to the lake, or Sanctuary at Redfish offers kayaks for guest use. Fishing is another popular activity. Within the lake, anglers can fish for mullet, bass, bream, and redfish. Note: A Florida freshwater fishing license is required. The lake is also a beautiful spot for wildlife watching. Herons, osprey, and cranes often stop at the lake for a meal. While deer, raccoons, opossums, and an occasional black bear visit the lake from nearby state forests and parks for a drink. Kids love grabbing nets and walking the edge of the lake to catch minnows, crabs, and snails. Early mornings are the most peaceful time of day to take in the scenery and enjoy the quiet, glassy water. 

Where the Lake Meets the Gulf

Big Redfish Lake outfall is the location where the lake winds its way to the beach. While the lake's depth ranges from 5 to 8 feet, the outfall is only 2-3 feet deep and gradually gets shallower as it nears the beach. The outfall creates an ideal spot for kids to play in the shallow water. Children are often seen with nets catching small fish & crabs or skimboarding on the shallow water near the outfall. The lake provides a haven for swimming and playing, especially on double red flag days when the Gulf is experiencing rough surf and the water is closed for swimming due to rip currents. In addition, guests of Sanctuary at Redfish may take a scenic pontoon boat ride to the outfall (March - October). While Sanctuary by the Sea offers direct beach access to the outfall. While exploring the area, staying on designated paths and respecting the protected dune vegetation helps preserve the fragile ecosystem that makes this stretch of 30A so special. Walking on the sand dunes and picking sea oats is prohibited by Florida Law. The calm, glassy water of Big Redfish Lake makes it especially welcoming for beginners, families, and anyone who prefers soft adventure. *Caution: Families should always be aware of their surroundings; Alligators and other predatory species also enjoy Florida's waterways & it's important to keep a watchful eye when swimming or fishing coastal dune lakes.

Beyond Big Redfish Lake: Lakes, Parks & Water Adventures

While Big Redfish Lake and the beach offer ample opportunities for enjoyment morning, noon and night, for those who wish to explore other outdoor adventures, the 30A area offers an incredible variety of natural experiences just minutes away. Several other nearby coastal dune lakes, each with its own personality, include Western Lake in Grayton Beach State Park--perfect for paddleboarding and photography, Oyster Lake in Dune Allen--quiet and scenic, and Eastern Lake in Seagrove Beach--popular for SUP rentals and calm, easy paddling. Two major state parks are also nearby. Grayton Beach State Park, which is consistently ranked among the top beaches in the country, features beautiful trails and lake access, and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, known for its pristine dunes, rare wildlife, and three additional dune lakes, offers more options to get out and commune with nature. For those who want to get out on the water with ease, local outfitters offer guided eco‑tours of the dune lakes, and Gulf fishing charters in Grayton Beach make it simple to add more adventure to your stay.

Plan Your Big Redfish Lake Experience

One of the best parts of experiencing Big Redfish Lake is its limited public access, ensuring it remains private and pristine. Plan your stay on 30A at either at Sanctuary at Redfish or Sanctuary by the Sea--both are gated condominiums with upscale amenities and luxury 30A condos--with direct access to Big Redfish Lake and the preserve. These private rental residences provide all the luxuries of home along with access to community pools, fitness center, firepit, grilling stations and more.  View rentals online or call one of Newman-Dailey's friendly, local vacation specialists at 850-837-1071 to assist with planning your stay. Remember to always book direct for our best rate guarantee. 

View Sanctuary at Redfish

View Sanctuary by the Sea

See you @ the beach!