A Day at the Beach - Tampa Beaches

There are numerous public access beaches left in the Tampa Bay coastal area. Here's a quick list for you. Pick one, grab your towel, the sunscreen, head out there, elbow a few tourists out of the way, grease up and broil yourself to your heart's content.

Take a walk, a jog, a swim or all of the above. You too will know why everyone loves our beaches.

Anclote Key: A four mile stretch of beach near Tarpon Springs, Anclote can only be reached by private boat. Great anchorages and beautiful beaches make this a popular boating destination. More information is available from the State Preserve at 727-469-5918. 

Bellaire Beach: There are four public access areas along Gulf Blvd for this beautiful beach. Keeping in the Bellaire tradition, they are for Bellaire residents only. For more details, call 727-595-4646.

Caladesi Island Park:

You have to take a passenger ferry or your boat to get there, but well worth the trip. Caladesi is one of only a handful of underdeveloped barrier islands left on this part of the Gulf Coast. Contact the State Park at 727-469-5918.

Clearwater Beach: There are numerous public access areas located up and down Mandalay Avenue, most with somewhat limited parking availability. The main public access is located at Pier 60, found at the end of Rt 60. Parking is much more plentiful here, and is metered. (bring quarters) City offices can be reached at 727-462-6572.

Egmont Key: You gotta have a boat to get there, but it's a great day trip. Egmont is an island of over 400 acres of pristine beach, and boasts the only manned lighthouse left in the U.S. It is located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, just southwest of Fort DeSoto Beach. Call the park for more info at 727-893-2627.

Gulfport Beach: Located at Shore Blvd South and 55th Streets, you can purchase a daily parking permit for $2. Outdoor showers and public restrooms are available. Gulfport City offices: 727-321-1158.

Honeymoon Island: Located on extreme end of Dunedin Causeway, you will find tidal flats, mangrove swamps, and great beachfront here. Call the park for more info at 727-469-5942.

Indian Rocks Beach: You will find the main parking and access area at Tiki Park, 19601 Gulf Blvd. Parking is metered, and will pop you for $1 per hour. Other parking and access can be found in several spots along Gulf Blvd, but parking is generally at a premium. For more information 727-595-4020.

Madeira Beach: You have several public access points to choose from at Madeira. They are located between 128th and 154th Avenues West. You can also use public parking at South Beach, near Johns Pass. More information is available from Madeira Beach Parks and Rec, at 727-392-0665.

North Redington Beach: You'll like this word, Free parking available along Gulf Blvd. There are six public access trails down to the beach from the Boulevard between 164th Ave and 174th Ave. More info by calling 727-321-1158.

Pass-A-Grille: Public parking is available at Ninth Ave, with metered parking for $1 per hour. For your buck, you have restrooms, showers, and a snack bar at hand. (Snacks sold separately) There are also public accesses along Gulf Way between First Ave and 22nd Ave in St Pete Beach.

Redington Shores: Public parking is available at the County Park; 18220 Gulf Blvd, and is free. Other public accesses can be found along Gulf Blvd between 174th Ave and 183rd Ave. 727-397-5538.

St Pete Municipal Beach: Lots of sand here folks, 1/4 mile at it's widest point, you will find it at 11260 Gulf Blvd. right off Central Avenue on Treasure Island. Parking is cheaper here too at $.50 an hour. Public amenities include a snack bar, dressing rooms/showers, and 10 volleyball courts. Info available at 727-360-3278.

Spa Beach: This is a bayside beach located in Downtown St. Petersburg on 2nd Ave. NE. Free parking and public restrooms are available adjacent at North Shore Park, which also has a beach. Info available at 727-367-2735.

Upham Beach: Upham Beach is quite popular, but you won't find much sand there. Public parking and beach access are located along Beach Plaza from 68th Ave to 70th Ave. Restrooms available. Info at 727-367-2735.

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