by Denise Gabbard

Created on: July 22, 2009

The Tampa Bay Area-Water, Water Everywhere!

Wherever you live or work in the Tampa Bay area, chances are there is a beach within very easy driving distance to you. This is truly a blessing that you shouldn't take for granted! Add in the fact that the water is calm, and almost always warm- what more could you ask for? The Tampa area has spring-break, party-animal beaches- sure. But, there are also laid back nature preserve beaches, and everything in between!

Even those who've lived here for a long time might not know about all of the area beaches and what each has to offer. By last count there are twenty area beaches between Tampa, St. Pete, and Clearwater, not even taking into consideration those out of Pinellas or Hillsborough Counties. It also doesn't include all the great spots that aren't actual parks- like the Gandy Causeway where people go with their four-legged friends to run, swim, and play!

Here are a few local residents' favorites:

Clearwater Beach Clearwater Beach is a beautiful, white sandy beach. There is something here for everyone- from the nightly music at Pier 60, to the artists selling jewelry and blown-glass, to boat rides of all kinds, a playground for the kids, and great seafood restaurants. (Do not go to Clearwater Beach without hitting Frenchy's on the water for some she-crab soup!) There are a few drawbacks to C.B.-the traffic on the Causeway is miserable at times, and it's a total zoo at Spring Break time.

Honeymoon Island Honeymoon Island is located at the end of Rt. 586, over a bridge and causeway that takes you to the island. There are several beaches, one of which is specifically for our four-legged friends. The park has nature trails, and lots of beautiful sea birds. If you go early in the morning, there are shells everywhere. Also, the water here is very calm, warm, and shallow- perfect for little ones and seniors alike.

St. Pete Beach Tourists and locals alike love the long, undeveloped stretch of beach at Pass-a-Grille. There is nothing between you and the sand and surf. Park your car at a meter on the street, walk right onto the beach! Other parts of St. Pete Beach have lots of shops, galleries, and restaurants, so when you come for the sunset you can stay for a late dinner or nightcap right near the water.

Ft. Desoto Park Fort Desoto has several different beaches. The South Beach sits in the shadow of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and is usually really empty and laid-back. The North Beach is more crowded, with a concession stand and a cool sand bar out in the water where you can set up your beach chairs. The park also has an old fort, a boat ramp, an area where you can rent kayaks, paved bike trails, fishing areas, and a campground.

Ben T. Davis Beach It's small, and there is Causeway noise- but you can't beat the location. You can get here from downtown in ten or fifteen minutes. It's not as wide or sandy as the beaches on the barrier islands, but you can take your lunch here and make it back to work on time!

The challenge is to get out and explore all of the local beaches-until you decide which your favorite is!

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