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4 Parks and Preserves in Tampa Bay You Need to Visit

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In addition to all of the attractions that the cities of the Tampa Bay region offer, the area is also home to numerous national and state parks and preserves. With pleasant weather almost year round, any time is a good time to visit the parks and preserves in Tampa Bay. Here are four that we think you should check out sooner rather than later.

DeSoto National Memorial

The National Park system is turning 100 years old this year and national parks are hosting events all year to mark the occasion. This memorial is located in Bradenton and commemorates the quest to settle Florida by Spanish Conquistador Hernando de Soto and the indigenous people who defended their homeland. The park features reenactments, walking tours, and kayaking excursions. | Website | Bradenton, FL

Hillsborough River State Park

This park became one of Florida’s first state parks when it opened in 1938. The park is home to a replica of an original Second Seminole War military fort called Fort Foster. The park features structures that are quintessential of the Civilian Conservation Corps who built many parks and natural preserves during the Great Depression. In addition to enjoying the history of the park, visitors can camp, hike, swim, bike, canoe, and kayak in the park. | Website | Thonotosassa, FL

4 Parks and Preserves in Tampa Bay You Need to Visit

via Flickr user Diane Bourgault

Little Manatee River State Park

The park is home to several unique ecosystems and can be enjoyed by hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, and camping. It highlights the Little Manatee River that is one of the few rivers in Florida that has not be altered by dredging or canals. The park boasts six and a half miles of hiking trails and fifteen miles of equestrian trails. | Website | Wimauma, FL

Egmont Key State Park

This state park is mainly a wildlife preserve and is only accessible by boat as it is an island located in the mouth of the Tampa Bay, southwest of the DeSoto National Memorial. In addition to the natural attractions, the park also highlights the history of the Seminole Indian tribe and activity of the U.S. Navy during the Civil War and Spanish – American War. The lighthouse on the island has stood since 1858. Visitors are reminded that the island is remote and they should bring their own supplies such as water, food, and sunscreen. | Website | St. Petersburg, FL

Editor’s note: This post was originally published April 2016. It has since been updated with the most recent information and edited for clarity & cohesiveness. 

The 5 Best Dog Parks In Tampa Bay

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There is so much to do in the Tampa Bay area; it’s one of the main reasons that brings residents and visitors to the area. We have playgrounds, state and national parks, beaches, shopping, restaurants, and concerts. Many of our families aren’t made up of just people though. Four-legged friends are also family members and they deserve a space to call their own as well. There are numerous areas in the Tampa Bay region that cater to dogs or allow owners to bring their dogs to public areas. We’ve rounded up a list of the best dog parks in Tampa Bay to help you plan a day outside with your favorite canine.

The 5 Best Dog Parks in Tampa Bay

  1. Logan Gate Dog Park. 7374 Monterrey Blvd., Tampa. This park is five acres with six-foot high chain link fences featuring double-gated entry. To help ensure a safe time for all, there are two separate areas: one for large dogs and one for small dog. The park also features water fountains for dogs and their owners, picnic areas, shelters, and dog washes.
  2. Davis Island Park and Beach. 1002 Stern Ave., Tampa. In designated areas, dogs are allowed off-leash to run in the sand and water. There is also a grassy area. The park features water fountains for drinking and rinsing and benches.
  3. Fort De Soto Park. 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde. Within the park is an area called the Paw Playground specifically for dogs. Dogs are allowed to run unleashed in this area and in the 3 acre fenced in area. Water fountains for both dogs and owners, doggie showers, and plastic waste bags are available to owners. The park is opened from 7:00 a.m. until sunset.
  4. Honeymoon Island Pet Beach. 1 Causeway Blvd. Dunedin. At the southern tip of the island is a beach set aside specifically for pets to romp in the sand and water. In addition to the beach, pets are welcomed along the nature trails. Pets must be leashed at all times. Park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset and fees are $8/car (2-8 occupants) or $4 for single entry.
  5. Al Lopez Dog Park. 4810 North Himes Ave., Tampa. Located in the heart of Tampa, this park is an urban oasis for both dogs and owners alike. Owners are encouraged to explore the massive park with their dog on-leash and let their dogs enjoy some unleashed time in one of the shaded fenced-in dog runs. There are separate areas for small and large dogs.

While you’re out enjoying what the Tampa Bay has to offer you and your pet, remember to keep your pet leashed unless in an area that allows for dogs to run free. Also, be mindful of the weather and your dog’s needs. Bring along a bottle of water for both you and your pet and protect your dog’s feet from hot surfaces lot asphalt and concrete.

5 Best Beaches in Tampa Bay

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Nothing is more quintessential than hitting the sand and surf when you’re in Tampa Bay. Millions of people flock to Florida every year to enjoy the white sands and clear blue water and there are so many to choose from in the area. So how do you choose which one to visit? We’ve rounded up the five best beaches in Tampa Bay that offer something for everyone.

Clearwater Beach

If you’re looking for a lively, younger crowd with plenty of amenities and nearby attractions Clearwater Beach is for you. The beaches are meticulously cleaned and groomed and was voted “Best Florida Beach” by USA Today readers in 2013. Visitors can enjoy dolphin watching, charter activities, and fishing. Restaurants, night-clubs, and hotels are all conveniently located nearby. Pier 60 is home to the daily sunset celebration.

St. Pete Beach

This beach was voted “One of America’s Top 10 Best Beach Towns” in 2013 by Parents magazine. The beach features the white sands you’d expect at a Gulf Coast beach but it also has a myriad of amenities including restaurants, cabana rentals, and jet ski rentals. There is also nearby Corby Avenue which is home to many historic attractions.

Treasure Island

Want a quieter beach day? Treasure Island is your beach. Want a busy day of shopping and sunning? Treasure Island is your beach. The beach is wide and offers something for everyone. The Sunshine Beach and Sunset Beach areas are more secluded and quieter than other areas of the island. St. John’s Pass offers a variety of shopping and eatery options. Alcohol is also allowed on some parts of the beach but be sure to check which areas before you pack up your cooler.

Fort DeSoto Park

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast Fort DeSoto is for you. Not only is it a beach but you can also camp within the park. The beach is protected by a lagoon and sandbars which makes for calm waters, perfect for families with younger children. There are also biking and walking trails and fishing piers.

Caladesi Island Park

There is no other beach as postcard perfect as the beaches at Caladesi Island Park. The sand is powdery white and the water is that aquamarine color that people expect when visiting Florida beaches. There are few amenities here since the beach’s main purpose is as a nature sanctuary. The downside to this beach is that it is only accessible by boat but to bask in the beauty of the island, it’s a minor inconvenience.

What are your favorite Tampa Bay beaches? Tell us in comments.

5 Best Parks in Tampa

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One of the best highlights of the Tampa area is the pleasant weather almost year round and Tampa offers some great public parks that can allow you to enjoy the weather in a variety of ways.  We’ve compiled a list of some of the best parks in Tampa, which feature something unique for everyone.  Make it a point to visit a few of the parks on this list and the other parks run by the City of Tampa this spring and summer.

5 Best Parks in Tampa

  • Ballast Point Park  5300 Interbay Blvd.  This park features boat ramps, grilling & picnic areas, playground and restrooms.  The park dates back to the early days of Tampa and offers spectacular views of downtown.  It’s also conveniently located to Bayshore Blvd and is home to Taste of Boston Restuarant.
  • Copeland Park 11001 N. 15th Street.  Located minutes from University of South Florida and Busch Gardens, this park is home to a seasonal pool, After School Activity Program, ball fields, fitness facilities, tennis/racquet courts & walking/jogging trails.
  • Davis Islands Seaplane Basin 864 Severn Avenue.  This park is a beach that offers a boat ramp and canoe launch, off-leash dog park, picnic area, and restrooms.
  • Gasden Park 6901 S. MacDill Avenue.  Adjacent to MacDill Air Force Base, this park features the 1.47 mile MacDill Trail which is part of Tampa’s Greenway Trails.  In addition, to the trail there is a fishing lake, canoe launch, dog park, grilling & picnic areas, and playgrounds.
  • Rowlett Park  2501 River Hills Drive.  This parks offers ball fields, dog parks, a canoe launch, play courts, playground, tennis/racquet ball courts, street hockey and wheelchair softball programs.

To find additional parks or get more information about renting pavilions or joining the many programs offered you can contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 813-274-8211.