We found Fred! Fred Howard Beach Park serendipitously found off Sunset drive in Tarpon Springs near the sponge docks. This beach park makes for the perfect impromptu beach get away on a Sunday morning. You’ll drive through winding back neighborhoods that bump up to the Tarpon and Kreamer Bayou, then round the corner across a very slow Howard park cause way. There you’ll drive past fisherman wading in shallow waters before you come upon the actual beach park. $5 measly bucks to park and parking is abundant. Grab some shave ice, rent a kayak, kick back and enjoy the beautiful palm tree lined sunset.

This beach is lined with Palm trees so find yourself amongst professional photographers in the middle of a session with families and newly weds. In the waters you’ll find paddle boarders, jet skiers, and kayakers but no surfers or boogie boarders because the waves are non existent.

The sponge docks are just a hop, skip, and a jump away if you’re up for a quick stroll through charming mom and pop shops or a seaside view at one of the local bars for a beer and some Florida famous stone crab claws. Might I suggest Rusty Bellies. Expect a wait so make it worth your while and finish with a slice of decadence, a.k.a. the pecan brownie cheesecake.