Downs Park — Attraction in Riviera Beach

I have always loved coming to Downs Park with my brother and dogs to enjoy the beautiful scenery, and I recently purchased a year-round pass so I wouldn’t have to pay the $7 entry fee every visit. However, today’s experience completely changed my opinion of this park due to the unprofessional and outright disrespectful treatment I received at the entrance.

Since I just bought the pass last week and will be getting a new car soon, I hadn’t yet placed the sticker on my windshield. I’ve entered the park multiple times without issue, but today, the attendant told me that my pass was voided simply because the sticker wasn’t on my car. Although I understand that the park has its own policies, I calmly explained my situation and even offered to show my receipt as proof of purchase, but instead of listening, he laughed in my face and accused me of lying about getting a new car.

When I repeated that I wasn’t lying and asked if I could place the sticker on my current car but receive a new one when I switch vehicles, he laughed again and mockingly called me a liar. Even when I went to put the sticker on, he stopped me, laughed once more, and dismissively told me to “just go.” His attitude was completely uncalled for—there was no reason to be rude, dismissive, or disrespectful, especially when I was just trying to show proof of my legitimate purchase.

This experience ruined my day and left me extremely disappointed. I have always enjoyed coming to Downs Park, but after being treated so poorly by an employee, I no longer feel the same about it. A park should be a welcoming space, not a place where visitors are mocked and accused of dishonesty without reason. I sincerely hope management takes this issue seriously and addresses the behavior of their staff. No paying visitor should ever be...

Daws Park has become one of our favorite spots! The playground is fantastic for my kids – it’s safe, well-maintained, and has plenty of activities to keep them entertained for hours. I appreciate how clean and well-kept the park is overall; it’s clear that the staff takes pride in making it a welcoming place for families.

Beyond the playground, the park offers stunning views of the bay, creating a peaceful backdrop for picnics and walks. My partner and I often bring our fishing gear, as there are great spots to cast a line and relax. Whether you’re looking to entertain young kids, enjoy a scenic walk, or spend some time fishing, Daws Park has something for everyone. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and fun, and I’d highly recommend it to any family in the area!”“The dog beach area is a true paradise for pups and their owners! It’s a spacious stretch of sand where dogs can run freely, splash in the water, and play to their heart’s content. The area is clean and well-maintained, with plenty of room for both large and small dogs to feel comfortable. There’s a friendly vibe among the dog owners, making it easy to strike up a conversation or arrange impromptu playdates for the dogs. The view of the ocean adds to the experience, making it a scenic and joyful spot for everyone. If you’re looking for a place to let your dog burn off energy and socialize, the dog beach is...

Downs Park remains one of my favorites. Always clean, there are restrooms near the playground. New play structures were installed over the winter. My 4 year-old grandson loves the new approximately 2 story tall towers and slide; they have tops to keep the adventuresome children contained but like anywhere else you need to keep watch on your child. The paved walking trails on the backside of the park remain peaceful and enjoyable. There is a walking bridge from the waterside of the park to the backside however the paved approach is moderately steep and is likely difficult for those in wheelchairs.

June 2023 update the new stage has been completed and a shade canopy has been added to the the play structure for the the smaller kids!

June 2025 update Pleasant approximate 3.2 mile walk on a paved pathway through the woods. The path is relatively flat with the notable exception of the ramp to the bridge linking the two sides of the park. The ramp is steep enough to make it difficult to push a wheelchair up it with an 200 lbs. adult in it. The begining/end of the path is at the foot of the stairs near the gazebo. Parking is plentiful. There is an entrance fee $6 per vehicle for the park but at the time of this writing a military ID will gain you free admission.

The wooden walkway to the turtle viewing platform was closed when I visited the first week...