by Jenn Heller
The quaint seaside community of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida is famous for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and prestigious golf courses. However, there is one hidden gem in this beach paradise that is often overlooked by tourists and locals alike: Bird Island Park. Bird Island Park is serene park perfect for quick outings for both locals and visitors of all ages. It offers areas for a wide range of activities such as small group gathering space, theater events, children's programs, picnics, bird watching, strolling and, of course, relaxation.
The park was thoughtfully designed by Bobby Weed to showcase the diverse ecosystems of northeast Florida and to feature the local flora and fauna. The park's landscape includes informative signs to help better understand the natural areas and animal life native to our area.The park's features include an entrance gazebo leading to a fun hedged Sea Turtle maze for visitors to explore. There are also beautifully crafted benches throughout Bird Island Park, a story-telling area with and a small stage, and a boardwalk surrounding the Bird Island pond. For those looking for a quick lunchtime walk, pop over to Bird Island Park and take 3 laps around the trail for one mile of afternoon exercise. The park also boasts a second waterfront gazebo, a play area for children, and a handicapped accessible sidewalk that winds around the entire park.
Bird Island Park came to fruition when a few Ponte Vedra Beach residents worked with the county to identify a vacant land between the Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library and Fire Station 10. While the county allocated some funds for the park's construction, the community was tasked with raising the majority of the necessary funds. The volunteer Board of Directors formed a non-profit 501c3 organization, and with the support of numerous businesses and individuals, they raised over $400,000 in seven years allowing construction of the park to begin in early 2009.
Four Great Features of Bird Island Park
- Nature trails: The park features a network of short nature trails that wind through the the park.
- Boardwalk and observation areas: The park has a long stretch of boardwalks surround the pond as well as observation areas that provide perfect shade to enjoy the Florida weather.
- Playground: The park has a small playground for children to enjoy perfectly situated under the shady canopy of oak trees.
- Birdwatching: As the name suggests, Bird Island Park is a popular destination for birdwatchers, who come to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Overall, Bird Island Park is a lovely and peaceful place to spend a few hours enjoying nature and take in the scenery. It's also the perfect spot to enjoy quiet time with a good book since the Ponte Vedra Branch Library is just steps away.
Video Tour of Bird Island Park
About the Author
Jenn Heller is the Operations Manager for The Volen Group, Keller Williams Luxury International, a top real estate team in Ponte Vedra Beach. Jenn has over 20 years experience of real estate experience and is a resident of Atlantic Beach.
Posted by Gwinn Volen on
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