Phil Foster Memorial Park is a waterfront park located in Riviera Beach, Florida. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. From swimming and sunbathing to fishing and boating, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Phil Foster Park.
One of the main attractions of the Phil Foster Memorial Park is its beach, which offers stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Peanut Island. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the ocean, or play a game of beach volleyball. The park also features a playground for children, as well as picnic areas for families and groups to enjoy.
In addition to its beach and recreational facilities, Phil Foster Memorial Park is also known for its fishing pier, which extends out into the Intracoastal Waterway. The pier is a popular spot for anglers to catch a variety of fish, including snook and tarpon. Visitors can also rent boats or kayaks from nearby vendors to explore the waterways surrounding the park.
Location and Accessibility
Phil Foster Memorial Park is situated on an island in the Lake Worth Lagoon at the center of the Blue Heron Bridge. The park is just a mile from the Palm Beach Inlet and thus gets a steady flow of crystal clear water from the Atlantic along with all sorts of fish and other marine life. It is also a popular destination for snorkeling, diving and fishing enthusiasts.
The park is located at 900 E. Blue Heron Boulevard, Riviera Beach, Florida 33404. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and visitors can access the park via car, bike, or foot. There is also a playground and a beach area, making it a great destination for families with children.
Parking is available at the park since it can get busy during weekend and holidays, visitors should be aware that parking can be limited.
Park Facilities
Recreational Areas
Phil Foster Memorial Park offers a variety of recreational areas for visitors to enjoy. The park has a beautiful beach area with crystal-clear water and soft sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The beach also features a designated snorkeling area with an artificial reef and snorkel trail, where visitors can observe a variety of marine life.
In addition to the beach, Phil Foster Memorial Park has a playground area for children, complete with swings, slides and climbing structures. The playground is conveniently located near the beach so parents can keep an eye on their children while they play.
The park’s boat ramps are open 24 hours a day and boaters should be aware that a Boat Trailer Parking Permit is required to use the boat ramps. The $10 daily permit is available onsite or an annual pass can be purchased from the Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department.
Restrooms and Amenities
Phil Foster Memorial Park has several restrooms and amenities for visitors to use. The park has two restroom facilities, one located near the beach and the other near the playground area. Both restrooms are clean and well-maintained, with multiple stalls and sinks.
In addition to restrooms, Phil Foster Park has several amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park features picnic tables and grills available for use, making it a great spot for a family barbecue or picnic. The park also has two individuals boat ramps and a large trailer parking area, making it easy for boaters to launch and park their boats.
Phil Foster Memorial Park is a great destination for families and individuals looking to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather and scenery. With its beach, playground, and amenities, visitors are sure to have a fun and memorable experience at this park.
Activities and Attractions
Water Sports
Phil Foster Memorial Park is a great place for water sports enthusiasts. With water temperatures averaging around 80 degrees, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling, diving, swimming and fishing.
The park has a man-made reef and snorkeling trail that is perfect for exploring the underwater world. The trail is 800 feet long and located in 6 to 10 feet of water, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced snorkelers – a divers flag is required. Maximum water depth is approximately 18 feet and visibility is typically very good during incoming tides.
Divers can also explore the nearby offshore dive sites that offer unique wildlife encounters. Guided day and night dives are available for viewers and photographers. The park also has two fishing piers that are great for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can fish for snook, tarpon, and other species.
Picnicking
Phil Foster Memorial Park is a great place for picnics and family outings. The park has a large playground, picnic areas, and pavilions that are perfect for family gatherings. The pavilions can be reserved in advance for a fee.
Events and Programs
Phil Foster Memorial Park offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year, catering to visitors of all ages including educational programs to recreational activities.
One of the most popular events at Phil Foster Memorial Park is the annual Blue Heron Bridge Gala which takes place in the fall. This black-tie event includes dinner, entertainment, and a silent auction, and raises funds for the park’s conservation efforts.
Visitors can also participate in guided snorkeling tours, led by knowledgeable guides who will point out the diverse marine life that can be found in the park’s waters.
For those interested in learning more about the park’s unique ecosystem, the park offers a variety of educational programs throughout the year. These programs cover topics such as marine biology, conservation, and ecology, and are led by experts in their respective fields.
Overall, Phil Foster Memorial Park offers a wealth of events and programs that cater to a wide range of interests and ages. Whether you’re looking to learn about marine biology, enjoy a day on the beach, or participate in conservation efforts, this park has something for everyone.
