Point Pleasant Park is situated at the southern tip of the Halifax peninsula. From the perimeter of the park many fine views can be obtained. The Black Rock Beach area overlooks the entrance to Halifax Harbour, with McNab's Island in the foreground, its lighthouse indicating the broadening expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The park comprises a tract of 75 hectares of land, with many miles of roads and paths available for leisurely walks, for dedicated runners, or for those who wish to sit quietly on one of the pleasantly situated benches and watch the birds or squirrels. Motor vehicles are not permitted in the Park, but there are ample parking areas at the eastern and western entrances. Large maps at each entrance show visitors the many points of interest.

One interesting historic monument in the Prince of Wales Tower, a Martello tower built as a fortification during the time that Prince Edward, son of King George III of Great Britain, was military commander of Halifax. It was completed in 1797, and is named after the Prince's brother, who later became George IV. The tower is maintained by the Canadian Parks Service, and is open to the public during the summer months. Throughout the park are other forts and batteries, showing the importance of the area in the city's military defence system. Fort Ogilvie was built to reinforce Halifax's defences after war broke out between Britain and France in 1793. It was strengthened in 1862, when the powerful rifled guns came into use, and the Cambridge Battery was built at this time. Its use was fairly short lived, but Fort Ogilvie served in both World War I and World War II, as a coastal artillery position and searchlight battery. Point Pleasant Battery, at the sea's edge, has frequently been altered or made stronger for defence against attack from the water.

The Quarry pond, near the Park lodge, was created when slate was removed for building stone. The lodge, at the Young Avenue entrance, completed in 1896, and built of native Nova Scotia stone, is occupied by the Park superintendent.

Various monuments stand throughout the Park. The Sailors' Monument, overlooking the Atlantic, commemorates those who lost their lives in the two world wars. Illuminated at night, it acts as a lighthouse for ships entering the harbour.

Throughout the park are picnic areas, with benches and tables. Along the eastern shore are barbecues. Black Rock Beach is sandy, and has canteen facilities in summer. The Park restaurant is at the eastern entrance.

The property is owned by the Crown of Canada and was leased to the Directors of Point Pleasant Park by Queen Victoria in 1866, for the term of 999 years. The rental of one shilling is paid annually at the Shilling Ceremony held in July.

The Board of Directors consists of nine members, seven citizens of Halifax, four of whom are permanent directors, plus the mayor of Halifax and one alderman.

The City of Halifax provides an annual grant for the operation and maintenance of the Park.

The Park has one of the very few heather patches in North America. History has it that a Scottish regiment that was stationed in the Park, probably the Black Watch, brought mattresses stuffed with heather from their native land. When they shook out their mattresses, seeds took root, and the very healthy heather is the result.

The Park is in use year round. Fall colours are spectacular in places. Cross country skiers are frequent winter visitors. There are many regular daily users, who come no matter what the weather.