Hampton Beach takes its name from the Hampton family who donated this Lake Weir property to Marion County in 1981 as a public swim beach, creating one of Central Florida's most accessible freshwater beach destinations. Lake Weir itself carries the name of either Nathaniel A. Ware, a frontier-era state land official whose name was misspelled in records, or U.S. Army Lieutenant Weir, killed by Seminole Indians near the lake's banks in the early 1800s—historical accounts differ on the precise origin. The beach sits on the eastern shore of Lake Weir in southern Marion County, where the spring-fed lake's crystal-clear waters have attracted visitors since the steamboat era of the late 1800s. The community of Ocklawaha, named after the nearby Ocklawaha River, established its post office in 1884 and has served as the beach's nearest settlement for over a century.
The county-operated swimming beach provides picnic tables, charcoal grills, and restrooms for day visitors exploring Lake Weir's 5,700 acres of pristine waters. Swimming remains the primary activity on the designated beach area, with the spring-fed lake maintaining comfortable temperatures and excellent clarity year-round. Boaters and anglers launch from nearby facilities to pursue largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie throughout the lake's diverse habitat. The park operates April through October from 7 AM to 8 PM, and November through March from 7 AM to 5 PM, with a per vehicle entry fee. Private group rentals allow organizations to reserve the facility for gatherings. Wildlife viewing opportunities include observing wading birds, ospreys, and occasional bald eagles along the shoreline.
Gator Joe's Beach Bar & Grill, established in 1926 on Lake Weir's water's edge, serves island-inspired cuisine including chicken wings, burgers, and ribs with dining above the water where breezes drift across the lake. Eaton's Beach Sandbar & Grill on the lake's south side specializes in Florisiana cuisine, blending southern, Cajun, and Creole influences in dishes like shrimp and grits, gumbo, and Ybor chowder. Both waterfront restaurants provide casual, beach-friendly atmospheres with outdoor seating overlooking Lake Weir's tranquil waters.
