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    Pondhawk Natural Area

    4.6 (21 reviews)

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    Lisa H.

    I enjoyed my walk at this nature park. It was on the grounds of the library which was open to the public and absolutely beautiful inside ; 2 stories with huge windows and large open space. There were several paths to walk and one which lead around the lake. We saw water birds, iguanas and wonderful natural landscape including a non venomoblack snake. . Parking was easy in a large free lot.

    Osprey
    Emily H.

    Beautiful nature walk. Saw lots of wildlife today on my walk. It is extremely hot, not a lot of shade, so plan accordingly with water, a hat, sunscreen, etc. the area is beautiful. Not too crowded on the walk. Getting there was a little confusing, but I figured it out (park at the library). Would definitely recommend.

    Ariana L.

    This is my go to park for walks in Boca! In general, the path is clean and not too crowded. There is tons of parking whether you park on the library side or the park side. The full loop that I walk is around the lake by the library, around the nature trail (green trail) and then under the road and around the lake in Patch Reef Park. It is about 2.5 miles and very easy to navigate. You will not get lost here! Both lakes are picturesque. My only complaint is that the red and yellow trails (woodsy paths in the nature trail) are not maintained enough, and it's hard to see the paths. There is a bit of wildlife - the occasional snake and gator, and lots of birds and iguanas!

    Ariel W.

    I have been to so many natural areas lately looking for the right one for me and I have finally found it! It's Pondhawk Natural Area. I just wish I lived closer. This area provides the size that I need to get a work out in. Located behind the magnificent Spanish River Library and Community Center you cross a bridge to enter the natural area of Pondhawk. The area is divided into three walking/ jogging trails. The first area I explored to the right of the bridge was the natural scrub area. You cross over a small boardwalk into the area where there is a wide paved path that loops around the area. It looks pretty much like every other scrub area I have been in lately. There is a lookout pavilion that looks out onto basically nothing. The path is easy to traverse and impossible to get lost on. Once you leave the scrub area the path continues on the left around the lake. I really enjoyed the lake path. I saw so many wading birds diving for fish. I also met the friendliest pelican. He let me come so close to take his picture. I loved meeting him. On the back side of the lake path I met the friendliest black cat. The ear was notched so I knew it was fixed. I had so much fun petting my new friend. The cat was well fed so it looks like it is enjoying it's life at Pondhawk guarding the path and greeting all the walkers and bikers. This trail let's out behind the Spanish River library. I had to cross the bridge again and this time turn left to reach the final path. You go down a paved path that takes you under the roadway and around another large lake. There are benches for sitting provided around both lakes. Again I saw an assortment of wading birds. Everyone in Boca seems to know about this place as I saw all kinds of people walking, running, biking, and inline skating. If you visit when the library is open you can use their restrooms and they even have a cafe inside the library if you want a snack or a drink. I didn't wear my exercise clothes the first day I came so I came back the next day properly dressed and with my daughter for company. Between all of the paths I got 5 miles in on my fitbit. The area is so beautiful. I highly recommend a visit.

    Ahmed S.

    Anyone looking for a scenic, beautiful quiet morning walk/hike, this is your place. At every time of the day this place amazes me. It's vast so you have a lot of ground to cover but it's very easy to navigate once you understand the layout. People bike, rollerblade, run, walk, jog, etc... it's honestly a great stress relief plus it truly is a great place for exercise and photography! Please keep in mind this area isn't necessarily safe especially during night. I would recommend to only go during daytime. I am the occasional night person and I go very well equipped with proper lighting (32,000 lumens) and self defense. During night either nobody is there...maybe you'd see people gathered to smoke weed etc... if anyone planned to rob you or attack you, there is nobody that will hear or save you. Plus there are warning signs for alligators. Heed my warning.

    Beautiful paved pathway
    Cayla S.

    I had passed by this reserve multiple times wondering how to get in. Finally, I made the short drive and entered the Spanish River Library parking lot where I saw a small sign for the reserve. There is plenty of parking which is nice. I went in the evening so many of the spots were open. At first, I was a little apprehensive when I first started walking because of the sign for alligators in the area. But I think as far as you follow the guidelines, you'll be good. The area is absolutely beautiful as you pass by a residential area, multiple benches and picnic areas. The paved concrete is suitable for biking and skating. Be mindful as you walk through the shaded vegetation areas, I spotted several feral cats. I can't wait to come back here to exercise and just think as I stroll around the pond.

    Flora on the trails.
    Naty K.

    This is more of a residential community pond and nearby forest than a nature preserve, which is what I was expecting, so it was a letdown. Located next to a library, you cross a bridge over this pond and end up in a forested area which contains many paved walking paths. I'm not a fan of cement walking paths, only because it means the area is no longer undisturbed, which leads to a loss of fauna and flora habitat. As a result, I did not see a single creature, not even a dragonfly. Pets are not allowed, so this isn't even meant to be a place to walk your dog. I saw a couple of people out here and they also left disappointed. Most of what you see in terms of flora is coontie, scrub, and pines. In terms of fauna, you may get lucky enough to see some ducks and egrets at the pond, but what bothered me most is that there was no sign of life within the natural area, not even a lizard. It felt rather apocalyptic, like something out of a sci-fi movie. If you live within walking distance, you might as well check it out to see for yourself, but I don't recommend wasting your time driving out here. There are many better areas in Palm Beach County to drive to and explore, like Loxahatchee, Green Cay or Wakodahatchee and you'll get more than enough of your fill of wildlife.

    Such an awesome park! Huge area for walking. There's multiple loops you can take around the park and lake (all paved with a wide sidewalk). Then you can take some nature trails that are part sidewalk with off shoots of sand trails. So much to explore. We've gone a few times and it's never been overly crowded. Bring your own water and a hat as there is partial shade for some of the walk but not all. The perfect place for a run or walk! Such a great spot.

    Visit the .07 mile Storywalk Trail!

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    2 years ago

    What a lovely little spot to walk and enjoy nature. It feels very safe and is very clean

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    4 years ago

    Great walking trail around a lake. Good for all levels, also there is plenty of parking

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    Review Highlights - Pondhawk Natural Area

    I scouted it a little so I knew the right move was to park at the Spanish River library.

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    Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

    Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

    4.6
    (262 reviews)
    3.5 mi

    This place is so great! Completely free. We did donate some money because we had a great time…read more Mostly shaded which was great for my mom who can't stay out in the sun for long. The nature walks are short too. And it's very accessible. Even a ramp all the way up to the look out point so people in wheel chairs can view too. It's shaded from all the mangroves and palms. And the tree that it's named after gumbo limbo! Which is a red tree that peels We attended the free 10:00 am tour which lasted an hour. It was mostly the tour guide talking who is a volunteer and very nice. Very enthusiastic. It was a little drawn out and we stoped every 10 steps but worth it. I took the stopping moments to take everything in and even spotted huge spiders. I forgot what they are called but there are the biggest ones I have seen and they are all over. He said they can bite but it's like a bee sting and not poisonous. And they stay off the path anyway. There are huge tanks of really big fish. The barracuda is huge and has the cleanest teeth. These fish are fed well. The place is kept very clean, there are a lot of staff to answer your questions. And there is someone even cleaning the outside of the tanks. They also have a sea horse tank. The butterfly garden is small, saw some zebra butterflies and I think a cardinal bird. You can walk towards the inlet and there is a small peaceful beach and picnic area that is covered. Parking lot is small but plenty of parking on a Tuesday morning at 9:30, but the time we left at 11:30 it was filled and there was a school bus. Figure 1.5 to 2 hours here. They also have a fish feeding at 12:30 but we were done before then. Would come back again!

    I'm not sure how I've never been here before but leave it to social media to hype up the new…read moreJacob's Overlook and prompt a visit. This small but mighty facility rescues and researches turtles and other marine life but turtles mainly. Staff/volunteers are very friendly, informative, and eager to help. They have fish feeding and turtle talks not sure if daily or just weekends but check their website for schedule. Also check the weather because if there is lightning, they will close. This spot is free but you can make a donation in the main building to help support the education and research provided here. There is free parking but it gets full quick. However the place is not that large and it may take only a couple loops to line up with someone leaving. If not there is paid beach parking across the street along the road there. There isn't a food or beverage but maybe bring a water bottle if you plan on doing the overlook (especially as it gets hotter). They have a butterfly garden but we only saw one butterfly at the time. They have two tall tanks where they do the feedings that have fish, rays, and a couple turtles. They also have two smaller tanks, one with really large fish and another with smaller. There are some outdoor tortoises as well as a college Marine research area where you can watch them being studied and ask questions of the students there. The overlook is beautiful and provides a nice view of the intracoastal and a slight view of the ocean. There are a few interactive educational boards along the walk up the ramp. If you want a more direct route up or down, they also have stairs. The path also extends into the mangroves and along the way back to the main building.

    Photos
    Various sea life tanks
    Various sea life tanks
    Info guide on new overlook
    Info guide on new overlook
    Large fish tanks

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    Large fish tanks
    Patch Reef Park

    Patch Reef Park

    4.6
    (43 reviews)
    0.6 mi

    This park truly had a glow-up -- and I mean a serious one…read more About a year ago, I wasn't the biggest fan of Patch Reef Park. The playground used to feel a bit unsafe, especially for younger kids. There were tall play structures (including a ship-style area) with spots lacking proper railings, and some slides ended too high off the ground, which made landings uncomfortable and even risky. The splash area was a fun idea, but the flooring was worn out, and the restrooms definitely needed an upgrade. Fast forward to now -- everything has changed. The renovation completely transformed this space into one of our favorite family spots, especially during hot Florida days. The playground is now fully enclosed with a fence and has a single entrance, which makes it much easier to keep an eye on kids The layout is circular, so visibility is great from almost any angle There's a shaded splash pad area (huge plus in the summer!) A separate, safe toddler zone -- thoughtfully designed and much more secure Soft ground (similar to artificial turf) -- very comfortable for kids The splash area has rubber flooring, and the play structures for older kids are still fun but noticeably safer now. There are also two swing areas and a basketball court. Small note: I personally think the basketball area should be fenced off -- balls can occasionally fly into the playground (we've experienced that ourselves). There are benches and picnic tables, but they fill up quickly on weekends. Pro tip: bring a picnic blanket and lunch -- it turns into the perfect cozy family setup. Other great features: * Clean, spacious restrooms (with very large changing stations) * Drinking water fountain * Easy parking * A cute little free book box -- bring a book, take a book * Walking trails with lots of greenery -- perfect for scooters and relaxed strolls One tiny aesthetic note -- some of the flooring colors (bright red/blue) feel a bit intense visually, but the green areas look beautiful and natural. Overall: an amazing upgrade. Safe, clean, well-designed, and very family-friendly. We come here often now, and the kids absolutely love it.

    A beautiful public park with a community center, ballfields, playgrounds, basketball courts,…read morepickleball courts tennis courts,, picnic areas, and lots of free parking. A huge new indoor Pickleball center is being constructed. They have a practice wall, which I absolutely love. I checked in at the pro shop and was assigned with my team three courts. They are beautifully maintained and in fabulous shape. There are lots of clean well stopped restrooms. There were benches, tables and water fountains on each court.

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    Patch Reef Park
    Patch Reef Park
    Patch Reef Park

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    Lake Wyman Park

    Lake Wyman Park

    4.6
    (8 reviews)
    3.2 mi

    I was recently in the Boca Raton area and I drove past this park and decided to check it out and go…read morefor a stroll. The park is big (over 8 acres) and it has a lot of amenities for locals and visitors, here you can enjoy Baseball / Softball, Basketball Courts, Volleyball, Tennis Courts, Soccer Fields, walking tracks (almost half a mile with nice exercise stations), and several playgrounds... For those not so much into active life and sports, you can still enjoy the park by using their grills, pavilion, picnic areas, picnic shelters. There is plenty of parking and nice clean restrooms. The park is open from 8 a.m to Sunset, every day of the week. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the park.Pets are not permitted in the park, either. Come by and enjoy this nice green space !

    Cute, little well maintained park in Boca Raton. The parks contains balls fields, a basketball…read morecourt, and volleyball court. In addition there are several playgrounds and pavilions. Everything was open. I enjoyed the running/fitness track which circles the park. The track is made of a squishy like material which at first I felt like I was sinking into, but by the second day I got used to. There were plenty of people using the park but it did not seem over crowded, it looked like parking may be an issue if there was a game or too many visitors. it was a pleasant place to spend some time while my son was practicing!

    Photos
    Some times just get on the swing and relax
    Some times just get on the swing and relax
    Lake Wyman Park
    Lake Wyman Park

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    Wakodahatchee Wetlands

    Wakodahatchee Wetlands

    4.8
    (334 reviews)
    6.3 mi

    Such a great spot. This was my first visit here... wow, such a peaceful and wonderful place to be…read morewith nature. I'm just beginning to explore the parks and sanctuaries in the area and this one is so perfect... well designed and maintained, a lot of birds, and other wildlife, including aligators. Love the boardwalk layout. I got caught with it closing at 7pm, as I thought it closed at sundown. Look forward to returning early morning when they open... as well as early evening... so see the activity at both times of the day. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

    My first time here, and I saw my first gator! This place has a long wooden walkway making a giant…read morecircle throigj the park, allowing you to go on a nice little walk filled with tons of creatures doing their own thing, oblivious of the humans meandering about. I was very happy to see very few instances of litter and pollution inside the park. It was very clean. Everyone here on this particular day was very courteous, and it wasn't crowded on a holiday. Like birding? This spot is for you. The avian influence is strong in this park. The trees are filled with nests of cheerful, impatient, and angry birds. The glades have little chicks hopping around, looking for food, or taking bath. Mother ducks leading their flock, and Great Blue Herons majestically creeping around. There are plenty of iguanas climbing around looking for easy snacks in the branches, and you'll see some really big ones just wandering the open pathways too. And when you're lucky, there's a gator or two soaking about. I'd get there early, because it can get hot later in the day, and parking can be a limiting factor.

    Photos
    Nesting
    Nesting
    Wood stork
    Wood stork
    Great Blue Heron at Wakodahatchee Boardwalk

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    Great Blue Heron at Wakodahatchee Boardwalk
    Parque Placido

    Parque Placido

    4.2
    (9 reviews)
    3.5 mi

    This "serene" park would have been a much better place if it weren't private to the local…read morehomeowners. The no trespassing sign makes it pretty clear. And you can't drive through the small park. Just walk. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. It says "no climbing" on the bridge, but while we were there, we saw some kids fishing off the bridge. There are nice vibrant green grassy areas and tall trees for shade. We saw lots of birds on the grass while we there including a large group of white ones on the edge of the lake and in the lake. I hope the local residents take full advantage of this peaceful bit of greenery. I know I would, if I lived nearby.

    The name of this park translates to English as Placid Park. It is considered a private park because…read moreit is owned and maintained by the Boca Del Mar HOA and they let you know it with multiple no trespassing signs. However no one bothered me while I was there and I was free to explore. The park is very beautiful with flowering trees set alongside a half mile long paved path that winds around a lake where there is a gazebo and benches. The trail also leads out to W Palmetto Road. The lake has a lot of ducks swimming around. I also saw iguanas and squirrels in the park. I wouldn't go out of my way to visit Parque Placido but this is a great amenity for the Boca Del Mar community to have as basically their backyard. It gives them a place to exercise, walk their dogs, and enjoy the outdoors.

    Photos
    Parque Placido
    Parque Placido
    Parque Placido

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    Pondhawk Natural Area - hiking - Updated August 2026

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