Howell Park

Natural Features

Tucked away between Seminole Road and East Coast Drive in Atlantic Beach, Howell Park is a little glimpse of tranquility that feels worlds away from the typical Florida beach scene. This peaceful retreat has 2,500 feet of nature trails that meander through an ecosystem of freshwater streams, quiet ponds, and shady wooded areas.

What's really cool about this park is how it just fits into the coastal neighborhood around it - no fuss, no flash, just nature doing its thing. If you're lucky (and patient), you might spot some turtles sunning themselves by the water. The park doubles as a bird sanctuary too, so keep your eyes peeled for feathered residents that make this place their home.

Trails and Accessibility

Charming bridges cross the streams within the park, not only adding to the Instagram-worthy views but also making it easy to explore every corner. The mix of gravel trails and wooden boardwalks keeps things interesting while you walk, and they've done a nice job of making most areas accessible without sacrificing that natural feel.

The well-maintained paths are mostly shaded by a canopy of trees - a blessing during those hot Florida days. Many first-timers are surprised to discover there's actually much more to explore than what you see from the entrance. The back trails extend well beyond what you might expect, offering a longer adventure for those with time to spare.

Dog-Friendly Environment

Dog parents, rejoice! Howell Park offers dog-friendly trails that make for perfect daily outings with your four-legged friends. The paths strike that sweet spot between groomed and rustic, giving pups plenty of interesting smells to investigate without getting too wild.

The cork walkways are especially nice - gentle on both human and canine paws alike. While you won't find marathon-length trails here, they're ideal for those quick after-work walks when you and your pup need some green space but don't have time for a beach excursion.

Community Value

This park is popular with both locals and visitors looking for a peaceful escape. Regardless of whether you're in the mood for a contemplative stroll, some wildlife watching, or just need a quiet spot to clear your head, Howell Park is a good option.

There's some nice history here too - the park is named after former Mayor Billy Howell, giving it deep roots in the community. It's the kind of place where neighbors bump into each other on their daily walks, kids discover their first turtle, and nature photographers find that perfect morning light.

Amenities

The open grassy areas have hosted everything from weddings to family picnics, making this compact space work harder than you'd think. While it's not huge, the design makes effective use of the available space.

You'll discover benches and picnic tables scattered throughout, excellent for taking a breather or enjoying a sandwich among the trees. Just a heads up - there aren't any restrooms in the park, so plan accordingly if you're thinking of spending a few hours exploring.

Parking and Access

There is dedicated parking available, but it might take a bit of detective work to find it your first time around. If that lot happens to be full, you can always park at the skate park across the street - a handy backup during busy weekends.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 7AM to 8PM, giving you plenty of options whether you're an early bird looking for a sunrise walk or prefer an evening stroll as the day winds down.