Florida is known as the Sunshine State, and for good reason. But the best way to soak in those rays is on one of the world-class beaches that line the shore along the Gulf Coast. Millions visit Florida annually, the majority of them looking for vacation property to rent, to buy or even deciding to sell timeshare property so they can stay as close to the beach as possible.
For those sun worshipers, there is really only one region in Florida to consider- the beaches of the Tampa Bay area.
Award-Winning Tampa Bay Beaches
Home to spectacular beach destinations such as Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach and Treasure Island, this 35 mile stretch of sand is continually highlighted by such leading outlets as TripAdvisor and USA Today. In fact, TripAdvisor's 2017 Travelers' Choice Awards named St. Pete Beach number 3 and Clearwater Beach number 4 as the best beaches in the entire United States.
The sugary white sand and warm Gulf waters combine for a wonderful beach experience. Accommodations range from holiday home rentals to 4-star resorts from major brands such as Hilton and Wyndham. There is just about every type of hotel and motel in-between, certainly enough options to fit anyone's budget.
While these are the primary attractions, there are some beach spots in the area that are not as well known, but just as impressive.
Pass-A-Grille Beach
With history going back to the beginning of the 1900s, this charming locale is a taste of old Florida in the shadows of the legendary Don Cesar Hotel. Located at the southern tip of the St. Pete Beach coastline, you won't find any high-rise hotels but plenty of hospitality, restaurants, shops and traditional holiday units that harken back to a more laid-back time.
The sunsets are breathtaking and can be seen from anywhere along this strip. Some prefer to watch from the beach, others from the comfort of their holiday unit, and still others from the bars and restaurants that line the location.
Fort De Soto Park
Honored as Parents Magazine's top beach in the U.S., the North Beach at this historic site is perfect for families with children. Protected by a sandbar which creates a lagoon-like swimming option, this spot can combine a terrific beach experience with a history lesson as this fort was originally built for the Spanish-American war.
Campsites provide options for tents and RVs, and there are food and beverage concessions plus canoe and kayak rentals.
For those traveling with their favorite four-legged family members, Fort De Soto Park offers a dog beach on the southern side of the park which looks out onto the entrance to Tampa Bay. While the park provides a great natural beach location, there is not much shade so you will want to bring your own umbrella, tent or beach canopy. Dogs must be on a leash but there is a separate fenced dog park area where they can run free.
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