St. Johns County Ocean Pier & Courts Park

Okay, let’s talk about the St. Johns County Ocean Pier. It’s…a pier. Hear me out!

Don't get me wrong, the views are nice. But are they pier-fect? That's debatable.

Here's my unpopular opinion: all piers are basically the same. You walk. You look at the ocean. You maybe see a tourist wearing socks with sandals. It’s a pier experience.

Pier-fectly Average?

Seriously, how many seagulls can one person admire? And yes, I know people fish there. I just think there are other better things to do.

Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm a pier Grinch. Maybe I’ve just seen too many seagulls pooping on railings.

But honestly, if you've seen one pier, haven't you seen them all? I'm just asking the real questions here!

The Pier Toll: Is It Worth It?

Let’s also discuss the toll. You need to pay a fee to walk on the Ocean Pier.

I'm a cheapskate at heart. I'd rather save that money for ice cream. Or maybe a fancy beach towel with a picture of a seagull on it, just to be ironic.

For the same price, I could get a bucket of seashells. A whole bucket of ocean treasures! Decisions, decisions…

Courts Park: The Real Hidden Gem

Now, let's shift gears and talk about Courts Park. This place gets way less attention, and that’s a shame.

It’s like the overlooked middle child of St. Johns County attractions. I think it's way cooler and more underrated.

You can picnic, play games, and soak up some sun. All without paying a toll to walk on a wooden structure!

Tennis, Anyone?

As the name implies, they have courts. I'm personally terrible at tennis.

But I appreciate the option. And I enjoy watching other people sweat and struggle, even if it does make me feel slightly guilty.

Plus, tennis whites are undeniably stylish. Even if I'm just wearing them ironically. Again.

More Than Just Courts

Don't think it's just tennis courts. There's green space galore! Perfect for frisbee throwing. Or avoiding the crowds at the pier.

Bring a blanket, a good book, and maybe some snacks. Instant relaxation. It’s my kind of place.

You can even bring a portable speaker and play some music. Just don't be that person who blasts death metal at a picnic.

My (Probably Wrong) Conclusion

So, here’s the deal. The St. Johns County Ocean Pier is fine. It really is.

But Courts Park is where it's at. It's the unsung hero of St. Johns County.

Don't get me wrong, I might visit the pier again someday. Maybe when I have a serious craving for saltwater taffy. Or when I'm feeling particularly charitable toward seagulls. But I will always have the Courts Park as my number one go-to location.

Think of it as my secret. Okay, maybe not so secret anymore.

But hey, at least I'm being honest. Unlike those tourists who pretend to enjoy wearing socks with sandals.

"A pier is a pier, but Courts Park is a feeling."

- Me, just now.

So, next time you're in the area, give Courts Park a try. You might just thank me later.

Or you might disagree completely. That's fine too. Just don't tell the seagulls I said all this.