Manatee Sanctuary Park
701 Thurm Blvd., Cape Canaveral
Phone: 321-868-1220
Once again, we are facing hatefulness, illness and any other ‘ness that burns into our hearts. Myself and most everyone I know are sending prayers and whatever other help we can to those facing the horrible circumstances that are still going on overseas and their families. We invite all of you reading this to please join us.
It’s been a while since I visited Manatee Sanctuary Park and I was very pleasantly surprised when I made an unplanned stop recently. Things could not have been more perfect…sky perfect Florida blue, coolness in the air and just a wisp of a breeze.
The first thing you notice is how lush everything is. The grass was just begging for bare toes. The trees didn’t seem to have much cold damage and were offering abundant shade. Flowers were growing in. Various areas seemed to be trying to out-do each other.
I walked the half mile fitness path and plan to return again when I have more time, and perhaps more vigor, to try a couple of the ten exercise stations. There’s a small bridge over the pond. I looked for the swans but didn’t see any this time.
The playground is well padded with mulch and sits between the exercise path and a large covered pavilion complete with BBQ grill. There are several smaller covered pavilions with BBQ grills also.
The best part of the park in my opinion is the covered boardwalk following the river’s edge. I spotted a school of mullet and a beautiful hawk diving for lunch. I’m sure there’s wildlife making their homes under the boardwalk. I wouldn’t be surprised if one of our state reptiles cools in the shallow water.
It’s worth spending a moment perusing the information board. I spotted info on the park events and the monthly Friday Fests.
There’s ample parking, including an electric vehicle charging station, and only service dogs are allowed, I advise sun block and insect spray.
As always, please take only pictures and leave only footprints.
~Rose Padrick
