Situated under the shadow of the historic Ponce De Leon Light Station, this park was named in honor of Ayres Davies, the town’s first Mayor, and his wife Kay. The Davies were long-time residents and very active advocates for the incorporation of the Town of Ponce Inlet in 1963. In addition, Mr. Davies was also a founding member of the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse Preservation Association, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that has restored, preserved, and managed the historic light station since the town of Ponce Inlet acquired it from the federal government in 1972.
This three-acre park is situated on land that was once part of the lighthouse reservation. Sections of the park also served as a staging area for much of the equipment and supplies used to construct the light station. These building materials were shipped to the inlet by boat and then transported up from the river on a simple tramway that utilized a mule-drawn cart. Although the tracks and mule are long gone, the tramway’s footprint survives to this day in the form of a narrow concrete path that extends south through the park from the base of the tower.
The modern park features a playground and picnic area along with a gazebo and public restrooms. The Ponce Inlet Veterans Memorial in this park was dedicated on November 11, 2011. A public boat ramp is located across the street from the park along with limited boat trailer parking to the east.
Town sponsored events are held in the park throughout the year and the pavilion can be reserved for group and family. Information regarding upcoming scheduled events and pavilion reservations can be found on the Town’s website at www.ponce-inlet.org.
Kay and Ayres Davies Park Amenities:
- Playground Equipment
- Veteran’s Memorial
- Walking Paths
- Benches
- Public Restrooms
- Covered Pavilion
- Picnic Tables
- Water Fountains
- Public Boat Ramp w/Trailer Parking
- Limited Public Parking
Description Sources: Town of Ponce Inlet & Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
