South Patrick Park First is one of the older developments on the barrier island of Satellite Beach. The neighborhood sits midway between the Atlantic Coast and the waterway that separates that island from the Florida mainland. It is also one of the few neighborhoods that sits next to undeveloped land on its eastern edge.
Built in the 1960s when exploration into space was in its infancy, the street names honor that era. Gemini Drive, Atlas Lane, Apollo Drive, and Titan Drive are all named after rockets or space flight programs that were important NASA firsts. Because of this, walking through this neighborhood is a bit like walking through history. Most homes are single-level, ranch styles on large lots. Many have swimming pools in the backyard. Some houses are leased as rentals.
Spessard Holland Elementary, De Laura Middle School, and Satellite High School are all within a block or two of the neighborhood. East of the middle school and high school is Atlantic Plaza, a shopping mall across the street from the beach. It includes a food court, a Publix supermarket, and the Satellite Beach Cinemas with its multiple movie screens. A pathway to the beach is next to the Lung Pharmacy, which is located oceanfront across from the mall. The Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) also has stops along Highway 1A in front of the mall.
Also within walking distance along St. Patrick Drive is the post office and the David R. Schechter Community Center. The community center is part of the Satellite Beach recreation system and offers dance and exercise classes. It also serves as a rental space for meetings, birthday parties, and other celebrations. Volleyball and basketball tournaments are often held in the onsite gymnasium.