Beach Please

The World- Famous Beaches of Greater Tampa Bay 

By Filippa Malmström  

Greater Tampa Bay’s beaches are world famous for a reason. From Clearwater Beach to Honeymoon Island, there is no shortage of sun, sand and saltwater to delight any beach bum. Hike through nature, relax by the sea, paddle canoes or explore sea creatures. No matter the preference, the perfect beach day exists here in GTB. 

The beaches of GTB are not only known as the best. They have the accolades to prove it. In 2024, Caladesi Island was listed as the No. 4 Best Beach in the Nation by Forbes, Clearwater Beach was ranked in the top 10 Best Beaches in Florida by U.S. News and World Reports and St. Pete Beach made an appearance on Travel & Leisure’s list of the 15 Best Florida Beaches for Families. 
 

With something for every member of the family, GTB beaches ensure that even pets can get in on the fun. Designated dog beaches and other pet-specific amenities are available throughout the bay. Furry friends are allowed at Honeymoon Island Beach, Davis Island Beach, Fort DeSoto Dog Beach and Pass-a-Grille Dog Beach.   

Caladesi Island 

For those who like hiking near the beach and exploring nature, Caladesi Island is the place to visit. Take the ferry from Honeymoon Island for an adventurous day. Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle through the mangrove waterways or through the canopies of Florida’s most iconic tree. It is a great way to explore the stunning nature of the island. Paddle onto land and hike the sandy trails of beach elders, sea oats and palm trees. There are also many species to explore. The island is full of secrets, so look up to see ospreys in the trees or gopher tortoises hiding in the sand. However, boaters should be careful sailing the waters off the beach, as it is full of oyster reefs. 

Clearwater Beach 

World famous Clearwater Beach is beach day perfection. It is a must-go for both locals and visitors. Beyond crystal clear water and stunning sunsets, there are cabanas available to rent close to top-ranked restaurants. With warm sun and beach fun, Clearwater Beach is also highly family friendly. On Pier 60 there is plenty to do, including playgrounds with waterslides for kids to slide down. If strolling through the natural beauty of the bay is more appealing, a walk down to Sand Key Park is a great way to clear the mind. One of the most famous activities is the opportunity to see real-life dolphins. Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers visitors the opportunity to get up-close and personal with their dolphins while they play in the waves.  

Fort DeSoto Beach 

Fort DeSoto Park is a place to visit for activities, exploring sea creatures and stepping into history. At the southern tip of Pinellas County, an old military base is open for visitors at Mullet Key. The park also offers diverse activities that fit everyone’s style, including nature trails, campsites, picnic areas, piers, playgrounds and boat ramps. Rent a canoe and paddle into a magical adventure. With more than two miles of canoe trails and seven miles of hiking trails, there is much to explore. The water is full of exciting surprises from dolphins, sea turtles and manatees. Beyond remarkable sea life, over 300 bird species can be found among the trees.  

The history of the former military base offers a unique adventure. With the old, shattered buildings, visitors can still stroll through to see the remains. The Quartermaster Museum contains war mementos, photographs, maps and more. Visitors can learn the history of the old military station and discover what life was like for the soldiers of wars from long ago. Down the waterways are the ruins of the park’s namesake fort. Going down to the bunkers, explorers can even get a peek at century old artillery weapons. 

Honeymoon Island 

Drive from the mainland through Dunedin Causeway to explore more than four miles of the beautiful Honeymoon Island, one of Florida’s best-loved beaches and state parks. In addition to a perfect beach day for family and friends, furry family members are also welcomed on the island’s southern end and nature trail. Home to Honeymoon Island are white sand beaches, cafes, restaurants and shopping. Its nature is full of mysteries to explore. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and paddle into the island’s 2.5-mile Osprey Trail and see what is hiding in the trees. Keep an eye out for rare birds, including the bar-tailed godwit, green-tailed towhee, long-billed murrelet and mourning warbler. After a sunny day at the beach, hiking, paddling, or all three, visitors can head to Rotary Centennial Nature Center to learn the island’s fascinating history. 

Indian Rocks Beach 

Indian Rocks Beach sets an even more leisurely pace. It still gives visitors a relaxing vibe like St. Pete Beach, but it is a quieter locale. Here, lying down in the sun, listening to the waves and reading a good book are enjoyable. Some stay for a few days at their popular bed-and-breakfast spots to relax. Indian Rocks beach is also known for its one-of-a-kind dive bars. Mahuffer is one of the most popular dive bars for its personality. The place features a collection of oddballs on the walls, mismatched furniture and bright-colored trinkets. Coining the nickname “Wurst Place on the Beach” the local favorite even has the silly moniker on their welcome sign. Locals express their love for Indian Rocks Beach, saying it is one of the most beautiful places with great water, location and sand.  

St. Pete Beach 

St. Pete Beach and Indian Rocks Beach are the ultimate seaside chill spots. Visitors will find laidback beach bars and lounges with live music. Local art, fashionable items and beach attire are found for sale on almost every block. At lunchtime, beach goers can walk up to Upham Beach Park to grab something to eat. The promenade along the dunes, Seaside Grill, is a favorite among the residents. St. Pete Beach is one of the best beaches in the country. Beach lovers highly appreciate the combination of a pristine shoreline with the perfect beach town vibe. 

Treasure Island 

As the name suggests, Treasure Island is a gem worth exploring. It is most famous for its wide, sugar sand beach. The Gulf waters lap the shore, perfect for those entranced by the gentle sounds of the shore. Kids can enjoy fun sliding down the giant inflatable waterslide on the west side. The more adventurous types can rent a kayak or paddleboard by the shore. Treasure Island also offers shaded cabanas to escape the sun for those who want to relax. Although it is very family-friendly, Treasure Island is still a great spot for some grown-up fun. Go to Sloppy Joe’s and drink unique cocktails while watching the sunset. 

St. Pete Pier 

St. Pete Pier offers a day of fun activities. The pier design fits all ages, and they are constantly hosting events for every lifestyle. The whole family can enjoy sunset yoga, movie nights, fishing spots and delicious restaurants. Feel free to bring a fishing rod, reels and bait to fish on the deck. Stroll by the public artwork “Olnetopia,” a water-like bronze sculpture worth visiting.  

However, do not forget to visit their historical attractions. The pier offers over 25 attractions, including monumental venues, museums and parks. Visitors will see the St. Petersburg Museum of History, which offers more than 100 years of stories about the city and much more. End the visit at the top to watch the skyline from the Pier Teaki rooftop bar. They offer a modern version of the classic tiki bar with incredible views. 

See Also

Gasparilla: A Festival of Fun and Excitement 

 Boating in the Bay 

Out on the waters of Greater Tampa Bay there are no problems, only beautiful coastlines and sparkling clear water. Boating and water sports are a big part of the culture and community here. Beyond its limitless marine world, boating in GTB is a great way to find new friends. Join any one of the bay’s anglers, boating or yacht clubs to find like-minded seafarers. The community loves to get together and share their passion for boat life.  

GTB offers multiple restaurants where boaters can tie up and stop in for a bite. Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro in St. Petersburg has beautiful views like no other. Look out at the marina by day or admire the string lights and sparkling waters at night. The menu is full of unique dishes for every taste. They offer plenty of land and sea options for brunch, lunch and dinner. Pair that with one of their special drinks, like the Dragonberry Bliss, Honeybee martinis, Cucumber Fizz and Spicy Jalapeno Margarita.  

Another local favorite in St. Petersburg is The Island Grille. Their turquoise blue interior gives visitors a feeling of being on a tropical island while enjoying good food. It is famous as one of the best places to get oysters. Other finds on the menu include fresh catch, island-inspired landlubber dishes, stir fry and pasta. Sit down and listen to live music while sipping tropical martinis, margaritas and daiquiris. Visitors can also swim in their private pool. 

Boaters will also find Tiki Docks Skyway Bar + Grill while sailing through St. Petersburg. Visitors get that tropical feeling with palm trees swaying in the breeze and tiki huts with tasty cocktails. Alongside the sea wall, boaters can tie their boat right in front of the tiki area. Sit in one of their Adirondack chairs and take in the views of white sand and beautiful nature. They are famous for their bloody Mary but also offer tacos, sandwiches and much more. 

Boat lovers can find multiple fishing spots with a variety of great catches. Right in the Gulf of Mexico, boaters can catch the most sought-after species. Some are tasty to take home for dinner, while others are a thrilling catch-and-release. Here is a list of species to take home and which are better suited for the thrill. 

Locals love to get out on the waters of Greater Tampa Bay. From modern Jon boats to luxury yachts, they sail through the water, sharing a common passion for the salt life, an irresistible love to push off the shore and traverse through the sparkling sea.