Palm Island Park — Attraction in Mount Dora

Such a pretty spot in Mount Dora. A lovely boardwalk runs along (above,) the water. Cypress trees with beautiful knees line the water's edge along with other trees and plants. There are plenty of places to pause and sit for a while on benches. There are even a couple of covered areas with seating. At each end of the boardwalk, there are well-traveled paths with lush vegetation on each side. Huge trees and a tropical plants bring one to feel that they're in a little piece of paradise.

A must for bird watchers/lovers. I saw coots, loons, and a lovely Great Blue Heron. If I recollect correctly, I believe I saw an egret, too.

This park is one I think would appeal to all ages. One could even navigate a stroller or wheelchair well through the paths. I cannot remember if there were ramps to access the boardwalk.

This park is dog friendly, though I only knew that because of signage and adorable dogs I saw with their owners. It is clear that people take cleaning up after their pooches seriously, as I saw no "evidence" left behind.

This is a great spot to watch the sunset and enjoy either solitude or good company. The evening I visited, I had run an errand to Mount Dora and decided to spend rush hour at the park rather than on the road home (which is over an hour away in light traffic.)

I look forward to returning with my family and exploring Palm Island Park and Boardwalk and also the other parks that are within walking distance. Perhaps we'll pack a picnic, as there are many tables available to enjoy a meal.

Kudos to Mount Dora Parks and Recreation Department for maintaining such a lovely spot. It is clear that they strive to keep their parks beautiful...

Wow! This is a hidden gem!! To say it feels like a bayou jungle adventure at a Disney park is to on one hand show how little of true old natural Florida we have experienced and also to allude to the magical discovery of every step of this charming boardwalk path! While we were not comfortable venturing into the side trails so very near alligators, there were picnic tables and intriguing trails scattered off the raised path you could try! Dogs seemed to be welcome but we were not comfortable with that either as we observed the wildlife throughout! The birds were majestic!! Several bird varieties to our untrained eye and some new ones to us. There was an elusive turtle and an incredible rookery of birds roosting at days end. So many places to stop and rest if you need and shelter from the sun. The path was excellent for a mobility walker or stroller. We admired the dramatic trees and fading sunlight. Boats passed by and a jet ski. All of us loved this short excursion and could imagine the joy of returning again and again at different times of day and seasons. An absolute must see if anywhere nearby for the whole family. Mount Dora itself is a sweet destination of historic homes and darling cafes and shoppes. Include Palm Island Park on...

Really nice. Boardwalk walking along the lakefront and beautifully wooded areas. The boardwalk goes in and out of the forest section and the lake front. Lots of wildlife to see. Gators water, birds and treetop birds. There is parking available and there is now a new kayak launch that is free. There's also a covered open-aired gazebo area so that you can get your kayak or paddle board set up. There's also a hose to rinse off when you're done and there is electricity. However, it's standard not 12 volt so bringing adapter or bring your own mini compressor if you need to inflate kayak or SUP.

The sidewalk also continues on the other way along towards the boat ramp and to the marina and you can even walk to the historic area of Mount Dora where all the beautiful shops and restaurants are. They also do an absolutely magnificent job of lighting the marina area at Christmas time. It's also only a one block walk to the playground which is kitty corner from Palm Island. There is a bathroom located at playground. Which is relatively near the parking lot. There is also parking over the...