Guess what everyone thinks about when they think about Florida (and especially the Tampa Bay area)? Calm, foaming ocean waves brushing up softly on white sand beaches, carrying shells and sand dollars to the shore as beachcombers stroll along without a care in the world. One might think that these tropical paradises can be found simply by driving to the west coast from any direction, but you might be surprised to know that there are parts of Tampa Bay that offer amazing beach experiences and some that…well…don’t.
But the votes have been cast for SerVacations’ best beaches in Tampa Bay! In this post, we list the top five! It admittedly is hard to go wrong visiting the beaches in Tampa Bay. Locals will tell you that you want to consider everything between Hudson Beach all the way down to Bradenton Beach (that’s about a 1.5 – 2 hour stretch).
Number 5: Treasure Island (south side of St. Pete Beach, Florida)
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Treasure Island is known for its funky, retro vibe, offering a beautiful white sand beach and multiple activities (as if the ocean wasn’t enough!). Unlike some narrow beaches, this one is extra wide, which is where the activities come into play. It involves a mile-long paved trail, restaurants, and shops. If you’re looking for a beach with lots of variety, options for more than just swimming, and possibly looking to fish – this is a great destination!
Parental Note: Drinking alcoholic beverages is allowed on this beach).
Number 4: Caladesi Island State Park (near Dunedin Causeway)
Caladesi Island is one of the most stunning stretches of sand you will find! This secluded beach offers a great deal for the ocean lover – from teal colored water to snorkel in, sea shells to hunt, white sand to relax, and small critters to observe. If you are planning on boating – don’t miss this beautiful island! A great alternative for land lovers is Honeymoon Island if you are driving.
Number 3: St. Pete Beach
This is one of the most popular beaches in the United States as it is another great variety beach with multiple activities, rentals, Tiki bars, and restaurants. Grab a cabana, ride a jet ski, and enjoy the sun on this large white sand beach where the ocean is always blue. As evening approaches, watch a beautiful sunset from the beach and then head one block off the beach to Mad Fish for dinner.
Number 2: Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto State Park is a 1,000 acre island refuge of wildlife, grasses, mangroves, wetlands, and palm hammocks. If you’re looking for the beach scene – this is the place. It’s an island that you can drive to by car and allows for dogs (in certain areas). Many locals love to come here to camp, ride bikes on the trails, kayak, nature watch – and, of course, use the beach! It was even voted the nation’s #1 beach back in 2005 and in 2011 it was named America’s best family beach.
Number 1: Clearwater Beach
You likely already have this beach on your list, and truly, you haven’t seen a sunset until you have witnessed it at this beach. But don’t just settle for the evening–the daytime is just as exciting! From fishing, to swimming, to visiting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (visit Hope, the dolphin – featured in the “Dolphin’s Tale II”). There are also many seafood restaurants to pick from, including the local favorite Frenchy’s and our personal favorite Palm Pavilion.
As long as you’re not here during Spring Break – this beach is fantastic for families, couples, or a large group!
Explore More
Want to discover more of what Tampa Bay has to offer? SerVacations offers exciting single-day and multi-day vacations for families, couples, groups of all ages, and seniors! We offer customized volunteer vacations that are designed to help you unwind from the daily grind and leave you feeling more connected to one another and the community. On our multi-day trips, you’ll even have the option for a flexible day to go visit one of these amazing beaches or Busch Gardens! To learn more, check out our Current Tours page or contact us about setting up a custom experience for your family, business, or church group!
Honorable Mention:
If you are attending one of our single day Tarpon Springs Family Adventures that includes an eco-tourism cruise, behind the scenes tour of the sponge docks, authentic Greek lunch, shopping, and a coffee and pastry tasting, and you want to stick around and catch the sunset, the beach at Fred Howard Park is just minutes down the road with plentiful parking, amenities, and concessions along with a gorgeous view. In fact, it’s always in the top tier of the locals’ beach list if they live in Pasco County or North Hillsborough.
