Memories of Ponce Inlet Florida-The Grand Old Lighthouse

As I've stated in previous posts, I'm a native of the Daytona Beach area, and am knowledgeable about many fascinating historical facts. But I still enjoy researching and sharing the new things I learn.

In a recent post, I was sharing some childhood memories of the time my family spent in Tomoka State Park, in Ormond Beach. As I let my mind wander to other pleasant memories of my childhood, I found fond memories of the lighthouse and park at Ponce Inlet. The best part about these memories are not just of my own childhood, but from a parental perspective as well. You haven't truly enjoyed life until you've witnessed something through the eyes of a child.

While I have fond memories of my own childhood days; of my grandmother buying me trinkets in the gift shop, and of running as fast as I could across the park, to stand and look up in awe, at the towering red lighthouse; then the wonder of looking down and across several cities, after climbing the 194 steps of the circular stairway all the way to the top, those memories pale in comparison to the memories of swinging on the swings with my own daughter when she was younger, and buying trinkets for her in the gift shop, then gasping for breath as I once again climbed 194 steps to the top of the lighthouse, and seeing the terrifying joy in her face and she stood in the open air and looked down over several cities, and out across the inlet toward the Atlantic Ocean.

If you've never been to the lighthouse park at Ponce Inlet, I highly recommend you do so, no matter what your age. It is a gorgeous tower, built in 1886 in what was once called Mosquito Cove. (I think Ponce Inlet is a much better name!) The Ponce Inlet lighthouse is the second-tallest in the United States and can be seen from 19 miles away. It was decommissioned in 1970, but in 1982 it was fitted with a new navigational beacon and is once again active.

You can also take a walking tour of the grounds, or walk down to the beach and climb out on the jetty rocks, picnic at the covered picnic tables and play in the dunes. (Only the ones that are allowed. See my post about beach conservation)

If you're considering investing in real estate in Ponce Inlet, Florida, visit my web site or call me for MLS listings. It's a great place to call your first or second home.

You may also be interested in my blog about the distinction between the different cities in the Daytona Beach area. or about the city of Port Orange which is just over the bridge, on the mainland side of the Intracoastal Waterway.