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Howell Park park in Atlantic Beach, FL
Photo: Robert Moore
View of Howell Park in Atlantic Beach, FL
Photo: Rob H
View of Howell Park in Atlantic Beach, FL
Photo: Clarkner

Howell Park

4.7(198 reviews)FreePark
🕑 1.5-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the playground equipment in a safe, contained area, while elementary-aged kids love the open fields for soccer, frisbee, and the basketball courts for shooting hoops.

About

Howell Park is a beloved Atlantic Beach destination where families can enjoy everything from active play to relaxed picnics under the shade trees. With well-maintained playgrounds, basketball courts, and spacious open fields, this neighborhood gem offers plenty of space for kids to run, play, and explore while parents take advantage of the comfortable picnic pavilions for snacks or full family meals.

Highlights

  • Well-equipped playgrounds for multiple age groups
  • Shaded picnic pavilions perfect for birthday parties and family gatherings
  • Basketball courts for older kids and teens
  • Large open fields ideal for running, sports, and active games
  • Beautiful mature trees providing natural shade throughout the park

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early on weekends (before 10 AM) to snag a shaded picnic pavilion, as they fill up quickly during peak times
  2. 2.Bring a soccer ball or frisbee to make the most of the spacious open fields,perfect for burning off energy
  3. 3.Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially in summer, as there are no food vendors on-site
  4. 4.The shaded areas are a lifesaver during hot Florida afternoons, so plan your visit to take advantage of natural cooling
  5. 5.Street parking along Seminole Road is usually plentiful, making drop-off and pick-up easy even with strollers

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (8-11 AM) or late afternoons (5-7 PM) are ideal to avoid peak heat and crowds. Fall through spring offers the most comfortable weather for extended outdoor play, with milder temperatures and lower humidity.

What to Know

This is a free public park with no admission fees. Parking is available along the street adjacent to the park, and while there are no on-site food options, the pavilions make it easy to bring your own picnic spread.

Seasonal Notes

The park is open year-round, but summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot and humid,visit during early morning or evening hours. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions for extended outdoor play. The park is especially popular for birthday parties on weekend afternoons.

Nearby Eats

Head to Beaches Town Center just a few minutes away for family-friendly options like North Beach Fish Camp (casual seafood with a kids menu) or Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar (excellent tacos and kid-friendly Mexican fare with a relaxed atmosphere).

More Activities Near Atlantic Beach

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Atlantic Beach Country Club

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Atlantic Beach Country Club offers families a well-rounded recreational experience with something for everyone. Kids can burn energy on the playground equipment while parents enjoy the peaceful neighborhood atmosphere, and the mix of tennis courts, basketball court, and open green space means multiple children of different ages can all find their fun at once.

Cafe

Junior League of Jacksonville

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The Junior League of Jacksonville's community cafe offers a relaxed, family-friendly spot where parents can grab quality coffee and healthy meals while kids enjoy nutritious, kid-approved menu options. This welcoming gathering space combines the comfort of a neighborhood cafe with a community-focused atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for breakfast or lunch when exploring the Jacksonville area with little ones in tow.

Activity

Atlantic Beach

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Atlantic Beach offers families a more relaxed coastal experience with its wide, sandy shores and calmer atmosphere compared to busier Florida beaches. The gentle waves make it ideal for young swimmers and beginner boogie boarders, while on-duty lifeguards provide peace of mind for parents. Kids will delight in exploring tide pools at low tide, discovering small crabs and sea creatures in these natural aquariums.

Museum

Beaches Museum

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The Beaches Museum offers a charming, bite-sized introduction to local history that's perfect for families exploring Atlantic Beach. Kids will be fascinated by the vintage railroad exhibits, old photographs showing how the beach looked decades ago, and hands-on artifacts that bring the area's heritage to life without overwhelming young attention spans.