lake avalon
“This isn’t the beach!” My seven year old exclaimed.
“It’s a beach. See, they have water…and sand.” I told her pointing out the obvious.
“But what about the normal beach?” she asked staring up at me with big green eyes.
I guess it was hard for her to comprehend that a “normal” beach doesn’t have to be along the Gulf of Mexico. I was raised in Michigan where a normal beach was at a lake. Lake Avalon reminds me of the beaches where I grew up. And while it’s definitely not the Gulf, the yellow sand is soft and the water is clear, although it’s brown, not green. The lake sits in the middle of Sugdeon Regional Park located off of East Tamiami Trail. You could call it a tucked away paradise, and it is thriving with activities.
No two visits have ever been the same for our family. My daughter and I discovered the small sandy beach when she was just a toddler and spent a happy afternoon pretending to be mermaids. The beach has sand toys permanently fixed safely into the sand and provide a great source of entertainment for the kids. It’s a really cool way to make mud pies too.
On other occasions, I’ve brought my husband along for some quiet fishing. We’ve also been canoeing on the lake. Canoe rentals are available and provide a relaxing way to spend the afternoon. Pick your day right and you just may have the entire lake to yourself.
Nature abounds at Lake Avalon. Snowy white egrets and Blue Herrings hang out by the shores. Living in Florida, it’s always possible to sight an alligator although the rangers do their best to keep them away.
One of my favorite things to do is to take a brisk walk on the paved trail that leads around the entire lake while my daughter rides her bike. It would also be a prime spot for jogging or stroller walking.
A trip to the playground is always in order no matter what. The big bright slides and swings are an easy way for my daughter to burn off some excess energy. Depending on my energy level you may find me sipping a cold drink while watching or swinging along with her!
It doesn’t matter what you choose to do at Lake Avalon–there are options available for all ages. This truly is a treasure in the middle of Naples and it’s well worth a quick drive to east Naples to take advantage of everything it has ot offer!'
More about Sugden Park and Lake Avalon:
Collier County Parks & Recreation offers water skiing and sailing classes for able bodied and special needs individuals at Lake Avalon. Check out the current recreation guide for dates and times. The classes fill very quickly so plan accordingly.
Sugden Regional Park has a lighted playground and open play area, paddleboat and kayak rental, and butterfly garden as well as a 1.5 mile paved fitness trail. Beach lifeguards are on duty Memorial Day through Labor Day from 10am-5pm. Park Ranger programs include a Junior Anglers Fishing Club, Nature Tales in the Park and A Closer Look at Butterflies. Call 591-8596 for details.
Picnic pavilions can be used free of charge on a first come, first served basis or rented for parties and family gatherings. To rent a pavilion call 793-4414.
Sugden Regional Park is located at 4284 Avalon Dr. off U.S. 41 East. The park is open from 8 a.m.-Dusk. Call 254-4000 or 793-4414 for more information.