Philippe Park, Safety Harbor FL

Philippe Park is definitely the park that I visit most often when I am in Florida. Average 3 times a week. It is about 7 km North from our condo to the park South entrance. This is where I like to do my cycling exercises. One loop, back and forth, is about 3.5 km. There is one decent hill on the North side.

Wooden bridge provide entrance to the South side of the park (not for cars).

The entrance for cars is on the North side.

This park was once where the earliest known Florida native American, the Tocobago, settled. Some artifacts were found as recent as 2010.

Around 1842 Mr. Odet Philippe acquired the land and established a plantation. His remains was buried in this park.

Odet Phillippe grave.

A private beach front picnic area. Good spot for fishing.

The East side of Philippe park is Tampa Bay. At the North end there is a motorized boat launching area, while the launching area for canoe and kayak is at the South side.

Motorized boat launching ram.

A large sheltered picnic area with barbecue grill overlooking Tampa Bay.

There are more than 10 sheltered picnic areas scattered around the park. Also several children playgrounds and washroom facilities.

This park is beautiful and well maintained. No entrance fee and free parking, except for the motorized boat launching area. There is a fee to park the boat trailer and towing car. I have enjoyed a picnic with the local Indonesian community here. I have also attended the early morning Easter mass in this park. The mass started at 6:00 AM. It was pitch dark as I entered the South entrance with my bicycle; I could hear footsteps and people talking but not see anybody. The sun rose around communion time behind the priest, it was a unique experience.

Branches reaching out from both sides of the trail provide shelter from the hot sun.

Learning to do SUP (Stand Up Paddle-board)

Kayaking and SUP, they are on my my to do list. New challenges....-:).
Those who have followed my blog are familiar with my view on 'How to enjoy life' - "Seek new challenges".

The Ladies at Indonesian community picnic, Philippe park 2011

After cycling 4 to 6 loops around the park, I found myself a quiet place to enjoy the scenery, have a snack and do some reading before heading back home. It was always time well spend.


  

Philippe park is one of my favorite park.