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Community Corner

The Great Escape: Robert K. Rees Memorial Park (Green Key Beach)

Just a short distance away from the hustle and bustle of U.S. 19 in New Port Richey is an oasis of sun, fun and relaxation

Less than two miles west of the traffic that buzzes along U.S. 19, and behind the motels and strip malls that border it, is a piece of heaven where one can take a moment or spend a day away from a busy life.

Drive down Green Key Road, past the small concrete block homes and single-wide homes and past the more luxurious canal-front homes, and you'll start to get glimpses of it between the mangroves.

The Gulf of Mexico creeps in on both sides and then, straight ahead, a small but charming beach beckons to you. This is Green Key Beach, and it is much more than New Port Richey's only public beach.  It’s an entire county recreational area named

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Whether you're alone or with your honey, this hidden gem offers a multitude of possibilities for relaxation, solitude and fun. The most obvious choice, of course, is soaking up some rays, taking a swim or walking hand-in-hand along the shore.  But keep the stroll going and a 650-boardwalk that snakes through the mangroves will lead you to a two-story observation deck overlooking the water. This is perhaps the most serene spot of all because it's far enough away to escape what can be a busy beach.

Listen to the surf rolling in. Bird lovers should bring along their binoculars. Ospreys, blue herons and sea cranes, to name a few, migrate in the park. Along the boardwalk are plenty of nooks with benches, too, so grab a seat and curl up with a favorite novel. Or tote along a sketch pad or camera to simply enjoy nature or record your surroundings.

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The salty fresh air is good for the body and the soul, but if it's sustenance you're looking for, pack a lunch, grab an ice cream or hotdog from the on-site vendor or cook up some burgers on the park-provided grills. A couple of large pavilions allow for some escape from the sun's powerful rays if a picnic blanket isn't your thing.

If you're into a more active lifestyle, bring along a canoe or kayak and launch it from one of two rock-bottom ramps. And don't forget to have a couple of bills on hand. Parking is $2 for a permit.

And when you're ready for family time, bring back the kids. The beach also has a full sandy playground for them to enjoy. But until then, relax and enjoy adult time at this gorgeous county park.

Address: 4835 Green Key Rd, New Port Richey, FL

Hours: Dawn to dusk

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