Shadow Bay brings tennis, trails to MetroWest
The sound of bouncing tennis balls can be heard from all corners of 111-acre Shadow Bay Park, which makes sense considering the space has 17 courts for players to test their skills.
The sport is the focal point of the Orange County public land, which has tennis court rentals and ball machines, plus a pro shop and lessons. In addition, the park contains opportunities for playing basketball and softball or casting a fishing rod.
Visitors to the MetroWest area green space can also work on fitness when exploring paved walking trails or outdoor exercise stations. Cyclists, walkers and joggers are commonly seen taking advantage of these features.
A number of pavilions, some equipped with charcoal grills, present opportunities for having a picnic with family and friends or sitting in the shade to read a book.
Crossing to the north side of the park, the sound of tennis balls fades into the background as a short network of hiking trails await visitors who wish for more natural exploration. A sand pine scrub habitat is under restoration and only accessible by foot. Bicycles, pets and fishing are not allowed in this section.
Walking along a ridge with sandy dunes, spot colorful wildflowers in bloom, blue jays and the occasional gopher tortoise. It’s also possible to see eastern cottontails, squirrels and yellow-throated warblers.
Important information
■ Location: 5100 Turkey Lake Road in Orlando
■ Hours: Open daily 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
■ Amenities: Tennis courts, basketball court,
softball field, trash cans, water fountains, pavilions, charcoal grills, restrooms, playground, hiking trails, parking
■ Activities: Hiking, cycling, fishing, tennis, basketball, softball, picnicking, wildlife viewing
■ Accessibility: Shadow Bay Park has accessible parking spaces and paved sidewalks and trails, all of which serve to make the park approachable for people who use wheelchairs or powered scooters.
■ What to bring: Bring a tennis racket and make a court reservation to take advantage of the park’s main amenities. Basketball can be a fun choice for active recreation. Anglers with a freshwater license can opt to bring a fishing
rod to catch up to one channel catfish, five bluegill and 25 black crappie per day.
■ What not to bring: Alcohol is not allowed at Shadow Bay Park. Rules and regulations for individual courts and areas are posted within the park, as are fishing regulations.
■ Pets: Leashed pets are allowed at Shadow Bay Park, except on hiking trails where habitat restoration is in progress.
■ Pro tips: An online reservation system is available for tennis courts. Rates are between $4-$6 per hour of play time. Call 407-2549170 or visit mgtennis. com for more information. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy getting away from the courts and exploring nearly a mile of sandy trails on the
north side of the park.
■ More information: 407-836-6200 or orangecountyfl.net
Find me @PConnPie on Twitter and Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel. com. For more fun things, follow @fun.things.orlando on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.