Fred Howard Park

Sheila Kinzer

Really nice park with areas for swimming, fishing and picnics. Pavilions are clean and well shaded. I wish dogs were allowed at the beach, my mastiff loves the beach.

Courtenay O'Connell

We started visiting this beach more than a dozen years ago to walk our daily 2 miles (from the beach side of the Causeway and back to the beach is 2 miles) after we got off work. We always had a cool breeze as we walked. When we finished, we’d get out whatever we packed for dinner, and sit on the beach, eating our meal and watching the sunset. I don’t remember when the park system started charging $5 a day for the beach portion of Howard Park. But when they did, we stopped coming. We found other places to see the sunset that did not require a parking fee. It is a 20-30 minute drive home, and the other beaches we found were closer. This morning I met a friend here, and she comes every Monday. Both of us are considering the annual park pass as it is less expensive than the daily $5 fee IF you plan on visiting at least twice a month. And it’s good for Sand Key Beach and Fort Desoto Park. The pass is also good for two cars. Since the pass I paid for this morning was good until closing, Husband & I returned this evening (6/30/22) for the cool breezes & sunset. We both like this park for its soft, even sand, the clean restrooms, and plenty of parking. The parking fee is the worst part of the experience, and $5 is not that much to keep the area and restrooms clean!

Sue Heaney

Lovely area. Nice park with lots of shade. The beach is an island with a one-mile causeway to get there. Crystal clear water and mostly sandy beaches on the ocean side. Trees and bushes also on the island providing shade. Two bathrooms, but no changing rooms. Also no food stands, so bring food and beverages with you.

Rhonda Richardson

Love this little beach! The drive through the park and over the causeway is beautiful. Once you get to the beach you’ll find plenty of parking. All day parking is available for $5. Two restroom areas are available on the beach and there’s almost always kayaks, bikes, big wheel water trikes to rent. The water is beautiful but there is sea grass a short way off shore. Most people don’t mind wading into the grass but I prefer staying in the sandy water. It can get crowded during peak season (March) but it’s worth it if you’re looking for a getaway for the day. You can’t beat watching the sunsets!