Spruce Creek Park - An Oasis at Your Fingertips

It doesn’t have to be all ocean all the time. Here on the Central Florida east coast, we are fortunate to have a few remarkable nature preserves and parks. Among them is the Spruce Creek Park, located at 6250 Ridgewood Avenue in Port Orange. You can get a dose of nature, some quiet beauty, recreation, and relaxation without a big production.

 This verdant park spreads over 1,637 acres. An extensive boardwalk takes you through lush nature and leads to a 15-foot observation tower overlooking the wetlands. You can see some of our fascinating wildlife, including an enormous array of birds. Continue along the boardwalk and you will discover the beautiful (and quite large) Rose Bay. 

Over three miles of low-impact walking trails allow for ample activities and include a playground, picnic tables, an interpretive trail, a fishing pier, and two docks to launch your kayak or canoe. There are fire pits, and dogs are welcome as well!

The park free to the public is open from 7am-7pm. It is a true find for anyone living in this area, as well as for our seasonal residents. Spruce Creek Park

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Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet

Alicia Keenon Photography

Ponce Inlet is one of the beautiful treasures of our Daytona Beach Area. There is, of course, the lighthouse, the lighthouse museum, the park, the jetty, and – the Marine Science Center!

The Marine Science Center plays an important role in rehabilitating, preserving and rescuing sea turtles, as well as other water animals, including mammals and birds. Since opening in 2002, Marine Science Center has cared for nearly 900 juvenile and adult sea turtles; more than 15,000 hatchlings and washbacks; and nearly 1,000 gopher tortoises, freshwater turtles and snakes. 

There are lots of fun and educational activities for children, which adults will also enjoy. For a very minimal entrance fee, you can visit the exhibit gallery that tells you all about flora, fauna, and habitats of our area. There are stingray petting tanks, the turtle rehab center, a nature walk, a bird observation tower, a variety of nature displays, and a very nifty gift shop.

Next time you are in Ponce Inlet or are showing your out-of-town guests around, visit the Marine Science Center for an educational good time for a mere $5 ($4 for seniors). Check out their website and activities here: Marine Science Center