Tampa Bay's warm climate and long shoreline make it one of Florida's best areas for getting outside. Gulf beaches, freshwater springs, paddling routes, hiking and biking trails sit within an easy drive, along with manatees, dolphins, sea turtles and hundreds of bird species.
These guides cover where to go, the best time of year for each activity and what to know about the local wildlife before you head out.
- Best Beaches Near Tampa, FL: A Local Guide to Gulf Coast Shores
From Clearwater to Fort De Soto, discover the best beaches near Tampa, FL, with tips on parking, timing, and where to catch the best Gulf sunsets. - Parks in the Tampabay area
Tampa Bay has long been celebrated for its sunshine, waterfront beauty, and endless outdoor activities, but nothing captures the heart of the region quite… - Best Springs Near Tampa, FL: A Local Guide to Crystal-Clear Swimming Holes
The best springs near Tampa, FL, offering crystal-clear, 72-degree water for swimming, snorkeling, tubing, and manatee viewing within easy driving distance. - Best Kayaking and Paddleboarding in Tampa Bay: A Local Water Guide
Where to go kayaking and paddleboarding in Tampa Bay, from mangrove tunnels and spring-fed rivers to calm bayous perfect for beginners. - Best Hiking Trails Near Tampa, FL: A Local Guide to Nature Trails and Preserves
The best hiking trails near Tampa, FL, from shaded preserve loops to scenic boardwalks, with tips on what to bring for Florida trail conditions. - Best Bike Trails in Tampa, FL: A Local Guide to Paved Paths and Scenic Rides
The best bike trails in Tampa, FL, from the Tampa Riverwalk and paved rail-trails to scenic waterfront routes for cyclists of every level. - Best Dog Parks in Tampa, FL: Where Your Pup Can Run and Play
Explore the best dog parks in Tampa, FL, including bayfront swimming at Davis Islands, shaded fields, and tips for a safe, fun visit with your dog. - Fishing in Tampa – Your Ultimate Guide to Angling in Tampa Bay
Your ultimate guide to fishing in Tampa Bay, Florida—covering the best spots, target species, charters, and tips for both inshore and offshore angling. - Rattlesnake Point Tampa: Exploring One of Tampa Bay’s Hidden Waterfront Gems
Rattlesnake Point Tampa is one of Tampa Bay's hidden waterfront gems. Discover its trails, views and wildlife in this local guide to a scenic escape. - Wildlife in Tampa Bay: Discover the Natural Wonders of Florida’s Gulf Coast
Explore wildlife in Tampa Bay, from manatees and dolphins to wading birds. A local guide to the natural wonders of Florida's Gulf Coast and where to see them. - Best Places to See Manatees in Tampa Bay
Discover the best places to see manatees in Tampa Bay, from the free Big Bend Viewing Center to spring-fed rivers, plus tips for when to go and how to watch responsibly. - Dolphin Watching in Tampa Bay: Ultimate Guide
Your ultimate guide to dolphin watching in Tampa Bay: best tours, kayak spots, and piers to see wild dolphins year-round, plus responsible viewing tips. - Sea Turtles of Tampa Bay: Nesting Beaches and How to Help
Meet the sea turtles of Tampa Bay: nesting beaches, when nesting season runs, responsible viewing, and simple ways you can help protect these threatened turtles. - Alligators in Tampa Bay: Where to Safely See Them
Where to safely see alligators in Tampa Bay, from Lettuce Lake Park boardwalks to state parks, plus the golden rules of gator safety and photography tips. - Birdwatching in Tampa Bay: Top Spots and Species
A friendly guide to birdwatching in Tampa Bay: top spots like Fort De Soto and Circle B Bar, star species to look for, and simple tips for better birding.
More Tampa guides: Food & Drink · Things to Do · Living in Tampa · Real Estate & Home Buying · History & Culture