Sometimes you just need to clear your head. A quick destination, a breath of fresh air, and a glimpse of the water. A peaceful corner nearby where you can bring a warm coffee, appreciate a few quiet moments of nature, and then slide back into your day.
I’m often drawn to “old world” Palm Bay, and quite often, to the Captain’s House at the end of Bianca Drive on Turkey Creek. A better description would be Goode Park, but the main building overlooking the creek is called the Captain’s House, and for whatever reason, that’s the name that sticks with me.
This spot is perfect for a late-day visit. Venture onto the small pier, enjoy the views, and take a few pictures. Most times near dusk, I see small alligators, turtles, and various birds.
There’s a small island just off the pier where birds gather for the night—the early birds get the best spots! On rare occasions, I’ve seen manatees. And just one time, a few years ago, there was a massive, fat gator sunning on the grass, uncomfortably far from the water. Keep your Florida eyes on!
Turkey Creek was named for the wild turkeys that once roamed its densely wooded banks in great numbers before heavy settlement and development changed the area.
Quick Park Info
Boating & Parking: Goode Park features a concrete boat ramp and dock providing direct access to Turkey Creek and the nearby Indian River Lagoon. There’s usually plenty of car and trailer parking.
Amenities: The park features a large covered pavilion that seats around 50 people, complete with picnic tables, a grill, electricity, nearby restrooms, and a playground.
The Captain’s House: This on-site rental building is used for small private events, meetings, and parties. More information can be found here.
Some Fun History
Pre-1600s (The Ais Nation Era): The Ais (pronounced "eyes") people ruled the Indian River Lagoon and Turkey Creek for thousands of years. They used these brackish waters to harvest immense quantities of fish, oysters, clams, and small game.
1700s (Population Collapse): Diseases, warfare, and slave raids wiped out the Ais population, leaving the region largely uninhabited for decades.
1870s (The Tillman Settlement): Pioneer John Tillman established a homestead and a wharf near modern-day Goode Park, launching a profitable orange and banana grove operation.
1887 (Post Office Founded): The expanding river community was officially named Tillman in honor of its founding pioneer.
1925 (Rebrand to Palm Bay): Local residents petitioned to officially change the town’s name from Tillman to Palm Bay to highlight the scenic bay and native palm trees.
1980s (Mayor Goode’s Era): William A. Goode, Jr. served as the Mayor of Palm Bay during a major population boom, later becoming the namesake for the waterfront park.
2020 (Modern Park Upgrades): The city installed a brand-new playground at Goode Park using funds from an arson insurance payout at nearby Twin Lakes Park.
