Sand Key Park

Sand Key Park is a 95-acre public park located in Clearwater, Florida. Situated on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and the Florida mainland, the park offers visitors a combination of natural beauty and recreational facilities.

The park is divided into two distinct areas: a beach section and a park section. The beach area features a half-mile stretch of white sandy shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, providing ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The warm Gulf waters average 76 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it comfortable for water activities in most seasons.

In the park section, visitors can explore nature trails that wind through small hammocks and scattered patches of trees. These areas provide habitat for various wildlife, including seabirds and migratory species. A salt marsh within the park offers opportunities for bird watching and wildlife observation.

From May through October, Sand Key Park serves as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles. During this period, visitors may have the chance to observe nesting activities or hatchlings making their way to the sea, though it's important to respect these protected animals and their habitats.

The park is equipped with various amenities to enhance visitor experience, including picnic areas, a playground, and a dog park. Lifeguards are typically on duty from mid-March to mid-September, enhancing safety for beachgoers during peak seasons.

Sand Key Park is open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset, providing visitors with ample time to enjoy its offerings. While entrance to the park is free, there is a daily parking fee for vehicles.