Discovering the Native Species of Crystal Beach, Florida

Crystal Beach in Destin, Florida is a paradise for vacationers and is also home to a wide variety of plants and animals that thrive along the shoreline and dunes. From resilient coastal grasses to endangered sea turtles, the wildlife plays a vital role in preserving the beauty and balance of the Emerald Coast.

Coastal Plants That Protect the Shoreline

The dunes of Crystal Beach are more than just scenic—they’re living ecosystems stabilized by native plants. Together, these plants form a natural barrier against erosion, while also providing food and shelter for wildlife.

• Coastal Panicgrass: Robust and long-lived, coastal panicgrass occurs naturally from Massachusetts to Texas. Its dense upright growth habit allows it to trap sand very effectively, making it a top choice for dune stabilization.

• Gulf Bluestem: A native warm-season grass, Gulf Bluestem builds and stabilizes dunes along the northern Gulf Coast. It provides habitat for migratory birds, small mammals, and shorebirds, as well as a food source for the endangered beach mouse.

• Sea Oats: Sea oats are found in coastal areas where they help stabilize the dunes and reduce erosion.

• Seaside Pennywort: This low-growing succulent herb is commonly found in coastal areas, spreading across dunes and moist, sandy areas.

• Rosemary: Rosemary is a dark green shrub with branches growing very close together. In the sun, the shrub smells of evergreen.

Sea Turtles of the Emerald Coast

Crystal Beach is part of the nesting habitat for several species of sea turtles. These turtles face challenges from habitat loss and human activity, making conservation efforts critical to their survival.

• Green Sea Turtle: The green turtle is the largest of all the hard-shelled sea turtles and feeds mainly on algae and seagrasses.

• Loggerhead Sea Turtle: Named for its large head, this reddish-brown sea turtle has powerful jaws which can crush the shells of its food.

• Leatherback Sea Turtle: Found worldwide in temperate and tropical waters, the leatherback is the largest of all sea turtles – and the only one with a soft shell.

Shorebirds Along the Sand

The beaches of Destin are alive with the calls and movements of shorebirds, many of which are small but mighty protectors of their nests. The Piping Plover and Snowy Plover are regular residents of Crystal Beach and are known for their protective instincts, chasing away intruders to safeguard their young.

• Piping Plover: Often mistaken for the more common snowy plover, the piping plover is distinguished by its yellow legs and shorter bill.

• Snowy Plover: A small shorebird, the snowy plover has a pointed black bill and moderately long, dark legs.

Why It Matters

The plants and animals of Crystal Beach aren’t just beautiful—they’re essential to the health of the coastal ecosystem. From stabilizing dunes to providing food sources and nesting grounds, each species plays a role in maintaining the balance of this fragile environment. To help protect the beaches and native species, stay on designated paths to protect dune plants, and keep a respectful distance from nesting turtles and shorebirds. Remember to always pick up trash, fill in holes in the sand, and leave no trace when leaving the beach. By doing so, you help ensure that future generations will enjoy the same natural wonders.  

Experience Crystal Beach

Visit the Crystal Shores Beach Access picnic pavilion to view the informational signs and learn more about these species. Then head down to the beach and see how many species you can spot--and even add others to the list. Looking for a place to stay in Crystal Beach? Consider the charming Beachside Inn across the street from the Crystal Shores Beach Access. With our on-site cafe, fresh-baked bread upon arrival and spacious guest rooms, Beachside Inn is ranked #1 B&B in Destin. View Beachside Inn guest rooms here. For those who prefer to rent a vacation home or Crystal Beach Condo, view Newman-Dailey's collection of Crystal Beach rentals here. Have questions or need recommendations, call our local office at 850-837-1071. 

See you @ the beach!

Published on Thursday, December 18, 2025