The park was formerly known as John U. Lloyd Beach State Park before being renamed in 2016 to honor activists Dr. Von D. Mizell and Eula Johnson.
The site includes the West Lake Park mangrove system, which is part of a larger aquatic preserve.
It is a significant site for 'wade-in' protests that occurred in the 1960s to challenge racially segregated beaches in Fort Lauderdale.
The park contains one of the highest concentrations of sea turtle nests per mile in the region during nesting season.
The barrier island is separated from the mainland by the Dania Cut-Off Canal.
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park is a 310-acre coastal preserve situated on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. The park serves as a critical nesting ground for endangered sea turtles, including loggerhead, green, and leatherback species. Its unique geography allows for both oceanfront beach access and calm mangrove-lined tidal creeks suitable for kayaking and paddleboarding. The park is named in honor of two prominent Florida civil rights activists who led protests to desegregate local beaches. Mangrove trails and observation platforms provide habitat for diverse bird species, including herons and ospreys. The shoreline features natural sand dunes, which are protected to prevent erosion and preserve the coastal ecosystem. Visitors can access picnic pavilions and charcoal grills positioned near the water. The area remains one of the few undeveloped stretches of coastline in Broward County.
The elevated boardwalk overlooking the dense mangrove canopy near the West Lake section.
Bring polarized sunglasses to better spot marine life like manatees or fish in the shallow mangrove channels.
Pack bug spray, especially if planning to explore the hiking trails near the mangrove fringes.
Arrive early on weekends to secure a parking spot near the beach access points, as the park reaches capacity quickly.
Attempting to swim near the Port Everglades inlet due to dangerous rip currents and heavy boat traffic.
Leashed pets are permitted in designated areas; pack out all trash to protect turtle nesting sites; do not touch or disturb sea turtle nests.
