Beaches and Fun in Tampa, FL

Tampa, Florida boasts well over 300 days of sunshine per year, a warm, subtropical climate where snowfalls are extremely rare, incredible sunsets nearly every evening, and some of the best beaches in the United Sates of America. It’s no wonder that so many Americans from northern states opt for retirement in Tampa.
Beaches, Beaches, Beaches
The beaches of Tampa are what bring most people to this exciting city. They aren’t the only attraction, but anyone who takes a walk on the snow white sands and goes for a swim in the warm, shallow, turquoise waters will immediately understand why they are the main attraction here.
There are several beaches in and around Tampa. Ben T. Davis beach is the closest one to the city center and is therefore a good choice for folks who need a relaxing beach break from their convention, conference, or
business trip.
More extensive, active beaches are found across the bay on the Gulf of Mexico. The white sands of Clearwater beach go on for at least four miles and offer such activities as jet ski and other watersports rentals, two fishing piers, and swimming. Party-goers will enjoy this beach as outdoor events and entertainment are a frequent part of the scene.
Folks in search of more secluded and quiet beaches will find them at nearby Caladesi Island. Fewer people are encountered on the island’s beautiful white sand beaches because it can only be accessed by boat (there is a ferry that leaves from the Clearwater Marina).
Another active and lively beach is found south of Clearwater at Saint Petersburg. More gleaming white sands meet gorgeous blue-green water at this peninsula popular with surfers and sailboats. Deep sea fishing charters also leave from this area to go after tuna, mahi-mahi, grouper and other big, fast-swimming fish of the gulf.
Things To Do
Inshore fishing is also good at various spots around the bay and gives visitors the chance to go after such popular, hard fighting species as Tarpon and Snook.
Although the beaches in the Tampa area are gorgeous, there are other fun activities to do in and around town. There are so many well kept, beautiful gold courses around Tampa that golfers might not even get to the beach at all.
Kids of all ages will enjoy Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. After getting close looks at dozens of different animals at the large zoo, amusement park rides await for thrills and excitement. To cool off in the subtropical heat, the water rides of Adventure Island are located just across the street from Busch Gardens.
Off the Beaten Path
Folks looking for fun off the beaten path will enjoy Dinosaur World east of Tampa at Plant City. This amusement park features over 100 life size replicas of dinosaurs, the chance to dig for real fossils, and other unique, dinosaur-themed activities.
Hotels in Tampa, Florida
Well over one hundred options for accommodation are found in and around the Tampa area. Visitors to Tampa on a budget will enjoy the Ramada Inn ($54-$72) but should make reservations because the clean and comfortable rooms, competitive price, and location near the highway make it a popular choice for accommodation in the area. Travelers to Tampa with a moderate budget will enjoy the Wingate by Wyndham Tampa North ($77-$140), and those in search of luxury could stay at the Emerald Greens Golf Resort and Country Club ($147-$333).

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