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    Fred Howard Park

    4.5 (150 reviews)

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    Kimberly A.

    What a beautiful state park. It's almost a hidden gem. Perfect for relaxing for the day. Perfect spots for fishing. Great day trip for the family. Perfect date day trip. Affordable prices for activities. White sand beach almost. Can't wait to return :)

    Carrie S.

    We loved this beach! It's a great family friendly spot- shallow spots for kids to play, parking is easy and bathrooms close. We found all kinds of critters in the water and just had the best day!

    Fred Howard Beach
    Martha D.

    Fred Howard Beach is an awesome locals hangout. A great beach that is less known about by those vacationing in FL. Easy parking, clean beach, fishing, grilling, kids park, water activities, outdoor showers.

    More sunset
    Nicole M.

    Perfect Sunset Spot with Gulf Views (and a Touch of Wildlife Comedy) Fred Howard Park is a beautiful slice of Florida coastline and an ideal place to catch a Gulf sunset. We visited in the evening with beach chairs and Subway sandwiches, and it made for the perfect low-key outing. The beach was definitely busy, but there was still space to relax and take in the view. At one point, a seagull swooped down and stole a bite of my friend's sandwich right from her hand--it was hilarious and a reminder not to get too comfy with your food! The sunset itself was absolutely spectacular, dipping directly into the Gulf with vivid colors and a peaceful breeze. We even spotted a mermaid on the beach (someone dressed up, of course), which added to the whimsical atmosphere. The park is large, with a scenic causeway leading out to the beach, and it offers lots of amenities like picnic shelters, playgrounds, a butterfly garden, and trails--though we didn't use any of those this time. There were plenty of trash and recycling bins, which helped keep things tidy despite the crowd. We didn't check if the bathrooms were open (they may still be closed), but the rangers were out after sunset gently encouraging folks to head out, which was appreciated. A gorgeous, family-friendly spot for sunsets, beach time, or just soaking in Florida's natural beauty. We'll definitely be back!

    Apple S.

    It is worth the drive to check out this piece of land, taking out in the ocean. Your first drive through a beautiful park and then come out on it just a road surrounded by water which provides lots of parking which is paying.

    Crystal clear water and blue skies at Howard Beach located
    Andie S.

    There's something magical about starting your day at Fred Howard Park--nothing beats watching the sunrise over the Gulf with your toes in the sand. This spot has become our go-to for peaceful mornings, salty air, and wide-open views that reminds us how lucky we are to live here! The water is crystal clear and perfect for floating, kayaking, or just letting your pup splash around. There's free parking in the park and along the causeway, or it's just $5 for all-day parking at Howard Beach located at the end of the causeway. Totally worth it, especially since that's how much you would pay hourly at other gulf beaches. At the park you'll find multiple pavilions, clean restrooms, and lots of space for grilling, gathering, or picnicking with a view. The walking trails are shaded and great for getting your steps in. Fred Howard Park isn't just a beach--it's a gem in our little community. It's one of my favorite places, and it will be one of yours too.

    Rick S.

    Fred Howard is a top highlight of this area! The park is full of beautiful winding banyan trees and is great for walking, biking, or driving through. There are several shaded play structures and quite a few pavilions that can be rented out for gatherings. The top highlight, though, is the causeway and extremely underrated beach! Tons of pay by plate parking, which is $5 for the entire day. Perfect if you need to sneak out for lunch and then come back. The causeway is great for walking the pups (no pets allowed at the beach) and the beach itself is phenomenal. Features full structural bathrooms which are temporarily under construction from the hurricane last year (temporary arrangements in place). And on busy days there is often a food truck serving snow cones and snacks. Great for a longer beach and also one of the best spots to watch a sunset over the gulf!

    Sky Palm Sunset
    Rachel Macie H.

    Now this is what I would call one of the most random chill places I've found in a hot minute. One random afternoon I just decided to charge over here to see the sunset and what I found in as a park with a ton of trees then a causeway which took me to an island! The island was chill I found some rocks to post up on on the far left and just relaxed and watch the beautiful sky do the thing it was cool because everyone took off like right as the sun dipped leaving the whole island to myself for about the next hour until it got pitch black outside as there is little to no light here which just made for a really unforgettable night! Overall this is a radical spot I really hope to venture here again one day as it was just that much fun in soo many ways!

    Valerie W.

    Another BEAUTIFUL regional park we "discovered" on my recent trip down to FL. If you want lighter crowds, (even on a weekend!!) AMAZING scenery, and clean, convenient facilities, this gem is a GREAT choice!! Lots of shaded spots, lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent, and more... Hope to be back for future visits, to catch those AWESOME sunsets!! ENJOY!!

    Shoreline
    Liane B.

    I'm updating my review. We visited the park on 02/09/2025. I was thrilled that the park facilities were finally reopening after Hurricane Milton however the restroom facilities were not. They had outdoor Johnny on the Spots that were beyond disgusting. We arrived around 11:30 am. I have never been inside something so gross. To my left was a urinal filled with 8" of pee. The toilet had a mountain of toilet paper that extended beyond the seat. I don't understand that there is no one on duty to maintain this and why are the existing facilities closed?

    Causeway to beach
    Courtenay O.

    We started visiting this beach more than a dozen years ago to walk our daily 2 miles (from the beach side of the Causeway and back to the beach is 2 miles) after we got off work. We always had a cool breeze as we walked. When we finished, we'd get out whatever we packed for dinner, and sit on the beach, eating our meal and watching the sunset. I don't remember when the park system started charging $5 a day for the beach portion of Howard Park. But when they did, we stopped coming. We found other places to see the sunset that did not require a parking fee. It is a 20-30 minute drive home, and the other beaches we found were closer. This morning I met a friend here, and she comes every Monday. Both of us are considering the annual park pass as it is less expensive than the daily $5 fee IF you plan on visiting at least twice a month. And it's good for Sand Key Beach and Fort Desoto Park. The pass is also good for two cars. Since the pass I paid for this morning was good until closing, Husband & I returned this evening (6/30/22) for the cool breezes & sunset. We both like this park for its soft, even sand, the clean restrooms, and plenty of parking. The parking fee is the worst part of the experience, and $5 is not that much to keep the area and restrooms clean!

    Tammi. B.

    Wonderful park and beach. Has a long causeway with several areas to fish. The beach is clean and beautifully landscaped. The sand is not the pure white like other beaches, but it's a great place to swim and catch a sunset or just spend the day. Kayak rentals are available as well as chairs and umbrellas.

    Breezy Day, I was trying to keep my hat from flying off, lol!
    Scott W.

    An awesome park with beautiful views and many ways to stay active in a relaxing environment. We spent most of our time walking the trails and watching windsurfers enjoy the breezy day out in the Gulf. Along with peaceful walking trails, Fred Howard Parks amenities include Howard Park Beach, a baseball field, numerous pavilions, two playgrounds, multiple restrooms, and an on-site rental provider; of bicycles, kayaks, water trikes, pedal boats, and more. It cost $5 to park all day here. We did not incur any charges upon entry or while parking in the main section of the park. It seems you can park just about anywhere for free until you cross the causeway and enter Howard Park Beach. I highly recommend a visit to Fred Howard Park if you are in Tarpon Springs. The park is a wonderful place to enjoy the day with family, friends, and loved one's. If you do visit, be sure to stay until sunset, you won't regret it.

    causeway parking strip

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    1 year ago

    Sweet little park. Really liked the little beach and walking trail. It was a beautiful place

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    3 years ago

    Amazing place to relax, the nicest local spot. I love the quiet mornings, with my dog & meeting lovely people.

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    Fred Howard Park Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Fred Howard Park

    Is this park dog friendly?

    Dogs are not allowed.

    Is it legal to drive on the wrong side of the street on Fred Howard Causeway after the fireworks on the 4th of July?

    Not unless the police or park rangers were there directing the public to do so. Unfortunately some people make their own rules,some people don't clean up after themselves and just don't appreciate the beauty and the privileges given to us by nature… Read more

    Are there beach cabana or umbrella and chair rentals?

    http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/06_Howard.htm

    Is this park dog friendly?

    Dogs are only allowed in the entrance picnic area and causeway of the park, not on the beach. They must also be on a leash.

    View All 7 Questions

    Review Highlights - Fred Howard Park

    The causeway is great for walking the pups (no pets allowed at the beach) and the beach itself is phenomenal.

    Mentioned in 38 reviews

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    Wall Springs Park - Another beautiful sunset at the park!!

    Wall Springs Park

    4.6(61 reviews)
    3.3 mi

    Revisiting this park after a few years, while in the area again. Sad to see the many tree stumps,…read moreremnants of trees that didn't survive the hurricane a couple years ago. For that reason there's less shade in the park, but otherwise it is well maintained and restored as much as possible. There is the historic spring, that was once a paid attraction in the area, but now the park is totally free. Usually there is an abundance of fishes near the circular spring. We enjoy walking along the trail. There's an observation tower that gives a nice view of the area, plus seveal decks to admire the Gulf. To the right side of the entrance there's a other trail, longer and more for bicycles, that takes you along the paved road to another observation deck. As walker I prefer the other trail, more natural, better shades, and less hot than walking on asphalt. There is a butterfly garden, and a little free library as well, near the parking lot.

    What an incredible park. No fee. Plenty of parking. Great trails, boardwalks and a magnificent…read moretower about four stores high. There is a spring and plenty of wildlife. We were fascinated by numerous jumping fish launching themselves out of the water over and over again. They do close a few minutes after sunset so it is difficult to watch this from the tower and get back to the car before they close for the night. A park ranger was coming out to clear people out before the sunset. Not sure this is a daily occurrence but was on the Sunday night we were there. Park is pretty clean. Trash cans are emptied. Need some more signs showing where the trails are located. When you park by the main bathroom there is nothing telling you where to go for trails. Cute butterfly garden that could use a tiny bit of care and surprisingly had no live butterflies around it. The spring has several signs around it that explain it's history and made this more interesting. Look for the female silhouette in the bottom of the spring. There is a sign that helps you see it. Numerous picnic areas. They are rolling out a new reservation system but it was down for a week. The Pinellas Trail connects right to the park and several spots had bike racks. Only thing that was frustrating was numerous visitors not following signs for "no dogs" especially in the tower where leashes get in the way on small walkways. The sign right on the boardwalk leading to the tower clearly indicates no dogs so why do you feel entitled to walk your dogs up and down the tower? Hopefully no dogs peeing through wood slats down on people below. Definitely be back to this park when in the Sponge Docks area. The beauty is so evident here... There are some sections that smell like sulfur probably due to decaying swamp material but this is nature!

    Photos
    Wall Springs Park - More views!

    More views!

    Wall Springs Park - Walk down from the platform!

    Walk down from the platform!

    Wall Springs Park - Best view in town!

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    Best view in town!

    Eagle Point Park - beauty!

    Eagle Point Park

    5.0(5 reviews)
    5.5 mi

    LOVE LOVE LOVE! What a beautiful place! So serene, very…read morevery Zen place. Gorgeous old wild Florida scenery. Absolutely Magical. A must visit. Beautiful open tropical green spaces, Picnic areas with BBQ's & Shelters, lots of shady areas & small green forestry areas. A lovely playground area for the kids, very nice restrooms, trails, fishing piers, lookout towers, wildfire all over, gorgeous views of the mangroves. A nature lovers paradise. Photo ops in every direction. Birds everywhere, perfectly preserved natural habitats, the sounds of nature all around, trickling water sounds in the distance. No signs of civilization. Not another human in sight. You would not think that this kind of hidden, almost untouched, natural treasure exist so close to the city, but it does. And it's very well maintained. While I was there a single gardener came briefly, checked things out, weed wacked around the edge of a sidewalk & left. As it already looked perfectly manicured when he showed up. I was there for a long time & there was no one else there except the brief visit from the landscaper & one other gentleman I had a brief but lovely conversation with. When I first got there, I ran into this one single gentleman that was bow hunting. He had a great big bow & arrows. I asked him if he had seen any of the Flamingos & he said "not today" I took that as a good sign to keep exploring as I must be close! haha. Later on, as I was leaving that same gentleman went back to his truck put his bow away & got out his fishing pole & gear. I thanked him for his time again & wished him luck fishing. He then wished me luck on my hunt for the wild flamingos & quickly, silently, vanished back into the woods. New Port Richey is a gorgeous place that has it all. It's quickly becoming my favorite playground on Florida's iconic Nature Coast. Highest Recommendations.

    Well groomed park with inlet all around. If you love birds this place is your park. Newer play area…read moreand lots of piers. A great find to visit and Im sure nice to live by.

    Photos
    Eagle Point Park - Entrance..

    Entrance..

    Eagle Point Park - Beautiful mangrove waterways..

    Beautiful mangrove waterways..

    Eagle Point Park - Beauty!

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    Beauty!

    Key Vista Nature Park - Pair of osprey

    Key Vista Nature Park

    4.4(32 reviews)
    3.3 mi

    We love to be outdoors. We are visiting Tarpon Springs and decided to go for a nature walk. This…read morecame up on a few different sites as being a good place to begin. I cannot tell you the amount of wildlife we saw. It was absolutely amazing. We saw Osprey and Ibis and tricolor Heron. The list goes on and on. We also saw a pair of osprey in a nest. We also saw a black vulture, a ring, neck, snake and various ducks not to mention a bald eagle juvenile. The water is beautiful. You can walk out on the dock and get a Birdseye view of the golf. They have clean bathrooms and plenty of parking. Bring your sunblock.

    This is a very strange park. It has some very strange "rules" for being right on the Gulf of…read moreMexico, the water is not very clear & there is a very large creepy plant in the distance. The sign upon entering clearly says: "No swimming allowed here" and I wondered why is that? This park is clearly on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico with a large beach area, so why no swimming? That is a great question. As you enter the park, even from my photo of the park sign at the entrance you can see this very creepy plant in the background. So I wondered if that had anything to do with the "no swimming" rules. So I did some digging & this is what I learned. The very creepy plant adjacent to this park is a power plant called the "Anclote Power Plant" owned by Progress Energy (located near Holiday, Fla. in Pasco County) It generates more than 1,000 megawatts (MW) from two steam units. "Progress Energy Florida" says it's to convert the Anclote Power Plant to CLEANER natural gas. Their webpage says that the Emissions-reducing conversion will "ALLOW" the company to comply with "NEW" federal standards. Hua? (Not good word salad folks) yikes. BECAUSE, "Currently, the plant uses oil & natural gas. The change is required to "ALLOW" the company to comply with "NEW" federal emission standards for coal & oil-fired generating units, including the EPA's new "MERCURY and AIR TOXICS STANDARDS" (MATS) rule." YIKES. (Nope, not good word salad folks) No wonder there is no swimming allowed. Do not recommend.

    Photos
    Key Vista Nature Park - Ibis

    Ibis

    Key Vista Nature Park
    Key Vista Nature Park - Park tower looking southwest (three way split trail section; N- beach access canal, S- anclote pier, NE turtle cove

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    Park tower looking southwest (three way split trail section; N- beach access canal, S- anclote pier, NE turtle cove

    Discovery Playground - Climbing area

    Discovery Playground

    4.3(8 reviews)
    3.2 mi

    Park is newly renovated and completely fenced in. There is ample parking. I love that it has a good…read moreamount of benches and picnic tables surrounding the park but inside the fenced in area. Lots of options for lunch or just to eat a snack. There is also a bathroom, which is really convenient as you don't have to leave the play area or walk very far. It can get pretty busy on the weekends but is quieter during the week. They have multiple swing options, a small playground for younger kids, a larger playground for older kids, and various climbing/play structures. It is completely turf but is surrounded by a concrete walkway- so pretty wheelchair and stroller friendly. It is pretty shaded as well so you aren't being blasted by the sun. I would say this park is more suited to 2+. There are multiple climbing components that are pretty challenging and just require more coordination/strength.

    Yelp needs to update the key photos for this park. We came here anticipating it to be an awesome…read morewooden playground (hard to find) with mulch and dirt and an adventurous outdoorsy vibe, which is what the pictures reflect. My young boys and I were disappointed to find it had been Renovated for some time now with toxic Turf and plastic/metal playgrounds. Playground felt much smaller this way than when it had been wooden with plank beams running throughout. It is also incredibly packed, but I think that's also because there is a sports complex here and I'm assuming many younger kids are here playing on the playground while older ones play sports. The upside is that it's still a public playground and an outdoor activity for kids. There are bathrooms in the playground area so that's a convenience.

    Photos
    Discovery Playground - Swing area

    Swing area

    Discovery Playground - Swing area

    Swing area

    Discovery Playground

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    Fred Howard Park - parks - Updated May 2026

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