Soaking up the Sun: A Guide to Popular Beaches in and Around Tampa, FL
Published by Holly Hooper on March 24, 2023 Updated on April 14, 2023
Tampa, FL better known as the Gulf Coast gem of Florida, is renowned for its laid-back vibes and year-round sunshine, making it a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Florida’s beach culture. Whether you’re already living in Tampa, vacationing, or possibly moving to the area and looking for houses in Tampa, FL, just know the beaches in and around the area offer a range of experiences that cater to every preference, from peaceful and secluded to vibrant and bustling.
With so much to see and explore, let’s take a tour of the unique and exciting beaches that make Tampa a must-visit destination for beach lovers everywhere. So, get ready to feel the sand between your toes and dive into some of the best beaches in and near Tampa.
Unexplored and distinctive beaches to visit in Tampa, FL
Egmont Key
“A personal favorite is Egmont Key. It feels like a secret island retreat as it’s secluded and only accessible by boat,” recommends Tierra Verde Boat Rentals. “The island has some of the most deliciously silky sand your feet will ever touch, and it’s sprinkled with gorgeous shells and abundant wildlife. Plus, the island’s landmark lighthouse makes for extra memorable photos.”
Cypress Point Park Beach
Cypress Point Park Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located in the Westshore area of Tampa. This beach offers breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Cypress Point Park Beach is also equipped with a fishing pier, walking trails, and a playground. Here, you have a clear view of planes taking off and landing at a nearby airport, which adds to the unique charm of this beach.
“We love Cypress Point Park Beach,” suggests Tampa Bay FIT4MOMs. “Not only is it the home to some of our local FIT4MOM Stroller Strides classes, but it’s also the perfect beach vibe for Tampa moms without making the trek out to the Pinellas Beaches. The water is shallow, making it great for toddler-aged children, and there’s a playground and bathroom on site. Plus, parking is easy. It’s a hidden gem in Tampa, just minutes from the airport and WestShore District.”
Sunset Beach on Treasure Island
“Our favorite beach to visit is Sunset Beach on Treasure Island,” suggests Bored and Yachting Club. “The beautiful blue water truly lives up to its name. There’s no better place to watch the sunset than by looking out at the Gulf of Mexico.”
Picnic Island Beach
Located on the southern tip of Davis Islands, Picnic Island Beach is a small but serene beach that’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the city. This beach offers beautiful views of the downtown Tampa skyline and calm waters for swimming or fishing. Visitors can also relax on the grassy areas nearby and enjoy a picnic or a walk along the shoreline. What sets Picnic Island Beach apart is its quiet and secluded atmosphere, making it the ideal spot for those who want to unwind in a tranquil setting.
Ben T. Davis Beach
Ben T. Davis Beach is a popular spot among locals who enjoy calm waters. Located on the Courtney Campbell Causeway, this beach offers stunning views of Tampa Bay and the city skyline, making it a must-visit for tourists. Visitors can rent paddle boards or jet skis, or simply relax and soak up the sun while taking in the picturesque views of the city. Ben T. Davis Beach is in close proximity to downtown Tampa, providing locals and visitors a beach experience without having to venture too far from the city.
Ballast Point Park Beach
Ballast Point Park Beach is a hidden gem located in South Tampa that offers beautiful views of the downtown skyline. This beach features a fishing pier, a playground, and a splash pad, making it a great place for all ages to enjoy. Take a stroll along the waterfront, go fishing, or have a picnic in the park. What sets Ballast Point Park Beach apart from other beaches in Tampa is its friendly amenities and stunning views of the city skyline, making it the perfect place to unwind with loved ones.
Set your eyes to Florida’s Coastline: Exciting beach escapes just outside Orlando
Passage Key
“One of our favorite beaches near Tampa is actually one that is less traveled and more secluded, providing a real island vibe. In fact, it’s an island that you can sometimes have all to yourself, with 360 degrees of private beach. The beach is called Passage Key and is part of the National Wildlife Refuge,” shares Rockon Recreation Rentals. “So, if you’re looking to get away and experience a peaceful, secluded island feel close to home, check out Passage Key. It is accessible by jet ski, boat, and kayak rentals, which can be found through Rockon Recreation Rentals.”
Indian Shores Florida
“My favorite beach is Indian Shores Florida,” says Southie Coffee. “If you are looking for a quiet place to enjoy the sun this is it. All the must-go restaurants and bars are near here, such as Salt Rock, Caddy’s and Dog and the Parrot.”
Fred Howard Park Beach
Fred Howard Park Beach is located in Tarpon Springs, a peaceful and serene destination just a short drive from Tampa. This beach offers soft white sand, clear water, and plenty of space to relax without the crowds of the more popular beaches in the area. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, fishing, and hiking in the nearby park, making it a great option for those who want to explore nature and enjoy some adventure.
Honeymoon Island
Honeymoon Island is a beautiful state park located just north of Clearwater Beach. This park offers four miles of pristine beaches, as well as hiking trails, a nature center, and a dog beach. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or take a ferry to nearby Caladesi Island State Park, which is another beautiful and secluded beach that’s perfect for a peaceful day trip. Honeymoon Island is the perfect destination for those who want to escape and immerse themselves in nature.
“Whenever I need to unwind and go someplace new, I love checking out the Sailo Community. It’s my go-to source for finding amazing destinations to cruise to,” suggests Magda Marcu, Co-founder of Sailo. “One of my recent favorites is Honeymoon Island, near Tampa, Florida. It’s just a boat ride away from Tampa, and it feels like paradise: the weather is always perfect, the powdery white beaches are endless, and every visit feels like a brand-new adventure. If you’re planning on going there, I highly recommend sailing along the shoreline or sharing a catamaran with your best friends – I think it’s the best way to explore this hidden gem. And don’t forget to set sail for Caladesi Island at sunset; it’s an experience that you’ll cherish forever.”
Three Rooker Island
“Everyone raves about Honeymoon and Caladesi Islands, which are amazing. But, if you happen to have your own boat and can make the trip, Three Rooker Island is just a little north and is an amazing sandbar island with a very private feel,” suggests Tampa Bay Moms Group. “If you are good with a more rustic and untouched vibe, this beach will easily be your favorite, with white sand and sparkling turquoise water, great swimming, fishing, and shelling.”
Pass-A-Grille Beach
Pass-A-Grille Beach is located on the southern tip of St. Pete Beach, a laid-back beach town known for its charming boutiques and restaurants. This beach offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and plenty of space to relax. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and explore the local businesses, making it an ideal spot for a low-key day trip.
“Pass-a-grille is one of my favorite Florida beaches,” suggests Luxe Day Spa. “It is so quaint and cute with calm, sparkling blue water, which is great for unwinding with a frozen rum runner while catching the sunset.”
Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a barrier island located just an hour south of Tampa, offering several beaches that each have their own unique charm. Visitors can choose from Coquina Beach, which is known for its soft sand and turquoise waters, or Bean Point Beach, which offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. Anna Maria Island is a beautiful and peaceful destination that’s perfect for those looking for a relaxing day trip with a variety of beaches to explore.
Unique and Scenic Beaches – Day Trips from Tampa, FL
Siesta Key Beach
Located just south of Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach is a world-renowned destination that’s consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the United States. This beach is known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a relaxing day trip from Tampa. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as paddleboarding and parasailing, as well as a vibrant beach culture with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.
Fort De Soto Park Beach
Fort De Soto Park Beach is a beautiful park located in St. Petersburg that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. This beach offers soft white sand and clear water, making it a great place to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails, campgrounds, and fishing piers, making it the perfect destination for those who want to immerse themselves in nature and outdoor activities.
Englewood Beach
Englewood Beach is a quiet and secluded destination located just south of Sarasota, making it the perfect place to run away and unwind in a peaceful setting. This beach offers soft white sand and clear water, making it a great place to swim, sunbathe, or go for a walk. Here, you can enjoy fishing or kayaking in the nearby Lemon Bay, which adds an element of adventure to the day trip. With its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, Englewood Beach is a hidden gem that’s well worth the journey from Tampa.
Caladesi Island State Park Beach
Caladesi Island State Park Beach is a pristine and secluded island located just north of Clearwater Beach. This beach offers soft white sand and clear water, making it a great place to relax on the shore. Explore the island’s hiking trails or take a ferry to nearby Honeymoon Island State Park. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, Caladesi Island State Park Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and secluded day trip from Tampa.
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