Pomona Park and East Palatka: Hidden Gems Along the St. Johns

Welcome back to Putnam Pathways, the blog from Coldwell Banker Ben Bates, Inc., Realtors—your essential resource for real estate and the undiscovered delights of Putnam County, Florida. Tucked along the eastern shores of the St. Johns River, Pomona Park and East Palatka are two of Putnam’s most serene and underrated communities, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town warmth. As of July 2025, these neighboring areas—with populations around 900 in Pomona Park and 1,700 in East Palatka—provide a peaceful retreat for families and retirees, all while being conveniently located in our “wagon wheel” network: just 10-15 minutes from Palatka, 45 minutes from Jacksonville, and under an hour from St. Augustine.

Pomona Park, founded in the late 1800s as a citrus-growing haven, and East Palatka, known for its historic ferry crossing and agricultural roots, share a deep connection to the St. Johns River. These hidden gems boast affordable homes (medians around $250,000 county-wide, with riverfront options adding premium value) and a slower pace that emphasizes nature’s restorative effects—reduced stress, fresh air, and mental health boosts through outdoor immersion. In this guide, we’ll paddle through kayaking routes, savor local eateries, and soak in the peaceful river views that make these spots ideal for relocators seeking Putnam’s “best of both worlds.”

Kayaking Routes: Paddling Through Pristine Waters

The St. Johns River and its tributaries define Pomona Park and East Palatka, making them prime destinations for kayaking enthusiasts. These areas offer calm, scenic routes that wind through cypress-lined channels, marshes teeming with wildlife, and open river stretches, perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.

Start in East Palatka at the East Palatka Kayak Launch on U.S. Highway 17, a free public access point with ample parking and easy entry into the river. From here, embark on the 6-mile East Palatka Loop, paddling south along the main channel before veering into side creeks like Rice Creek for shaded, intimate explorations. Spot alligators sunning on logs, herons wading in shallows, and manatees during warmer months—the river’s gentle flow ensures a relaxed pace, typically 2-4 hours round-trip.

In Pomona Park, the Pomona Park Boat Ramp on County Road 308 provides access to Dunns Creek, a 9-mile tributary connecting to Lake Crescent. This route is a kayaker’s dream: Narrow, tree-canopied passages open to broader views, with opportunities for fishing or picnicking on sandy banks. For a longer adventure, the 17.7-mile Crescent Lake Paddling Trail starts nearby, traversing from the lake through Dunns Creek to the St. Johns, featuring diverse habitats like hardwood swamps and pine flatwoods—expect 6-8 hours with stops for birdwatching or lunch.

Local outfitters like St. Johns River Eco Tours in nearby DeBary offer guided kayak trips (around $50/person), including equipment and expert narration on the ecosystem. Safety tips: Check tides (the St. Johns is tidal here), wear life jackets, and paddle in groups—manatee zones require slow speeds to protect these gentle giants. These routes not only provide exercise but also mental rejuvenation, aligning with Putnam’s health benefits of nature immersion.

Local Eateries: Savoring Riverfront Flavors

After a day on the water, refuel at the charming local eateries in Pomona Park and East Palatka, where fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and riverside ambiance dominate. In East Palatka, Corky Bell’s Seafood at Gator Landing stands out as a waterfront staple, offering fried catfish, shrimp boils, and gator tail with views of the St. Johns from outdoor decks. Open daily, it’s family-friendly with affordable plates ($10-20) and live music on weekends, capturing the area’s relaxed vibe.

For a cozy spot, try Musselwhite’s Seafood and Grill in East Palatka, known for its blackened mahi-mahi and crab cakes, sourced locally when possible. In Pomona Park, the Pomona Park Cafe serves up homestyle breakfasts and lunches like biscuits and gravy or club sandwiches in a quaint diner setting, perfect for post-kayak refueling. Don’t miss seasonal pop-ups or food trucks at community events, often featuring fresh river catches.

These eateries emphasize Putnam’s community focus—many are family-owned, supporting local economies and offering that small-town hospitality relocators crave.

Peaceful River Views: Tranquility Along the St. Johns

The true magic of Pomona Park and East Palatka lies in their peaceful river views, providing a backdrop for relaxation and reflection. In East Palatka, stroll the Riverfront Park with benches overlooking the wide St. Johns, where sunsets paint the water in hues of orange and pink—ideal for quiet evenings or photography. The historic East Palatka Ferry site, now a scenic overlook, evokes tales of bygone crossings, adding a layer of nostalgia.

Pomona Park’s riverfront access at Dunns Creek State Park offers shaded picnic areas and fishing piers with unobstructed views of the creek merging into the St. Johns—spot dolphins or manatees in calmer waters. Homes here often feature private docks, enhancing the daily serenity for residents. These views promote mental health benefits like reduced anxiety through nature’s calming presence, making the area a sanctuary for those fleeing urban stress.

Community spots like the Pomona Park Community Center host yoga sessions or stargazing events, capitalizing on the dark skies and river tranquility. For relocators, this peace translates to higher quality of life, with properties offering these vistas at accessible prices.

Uncover the Gems of Pomona Park and East Palatka

Pomona Park and East Palatka’s kayaking, eateries, and river views make them Putnam’s hidden treasures—serene spots for embracing Florida’s natural side. As local experts, Coldwell Banker Ben Bates is here to help you find a home that captures this essence.

Our team—including Richard Schwartz (knowledgeable Putnam County specialist guiding first-time buyers), Shelly Griffis (experienced in helping families relocate to quiet riverfront areas), and Hope Thomas (expert in matching clients to affordable homes with nature views)—knows these gems intimately.

Ready to discover? Call (386) 328-6716 or visit benbates.com. Subscribe to Putnam Pathways for more. Your river hideaway awaits!