Welcome to our Beaches
35 miles of sandy beachfront located on the state's western Gulf Coast.
Composed of many small remote islands each with distinct characteristics, the beaches throughout Tampa Bay offer an unparalleled experience for those who want oceanfront living at its finest. Known for their fine white sand, calm water, and magical sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, our beaches serve as a personal oasis for visitors and residents alike. Better yet, its friendly residents and a plethora of recreational activities make getting involved and active in the community a breeze as well. The beaches throughout Tampa Bay offer the best of both worlds: a chance to relax in a stunning setting and the opportunity to explore the great outdoors with friends and family.
What to Love
• Miles of white sand beaches
• Unforgettable sunsets
• Friendly residents
• Abundant recreational activities
Diverse Beach Communities That Have Something For Everyone
No matter what kind of lifestyle you want to lead, you’re sure to find it in one of Tampa Bay’s many world-class beaches.
If fitness and socializing are big parts of your life, Clearwater Beach might be for you. Clearwater Beach was awarded the prestigious title of the #1 beach in the U.S. in 2016, 2018, and 2019 by TripAdvisor. The beach lives up to its name, as it’s known for its crystal-clear water and powdery white sand. Clearwater Beach is known for its vibrancy and life—you will see everyone from tourists soaking up the sun to adventure seekers jet skiing and boating in the distance, residents running and riding bikes along the BeachWalk promenade to friends and families playing volleyball or relaxing and enjoying a picnic.
For those who desire a more small-town feel, Belleair Beach and Belleair Shore are both hidden gems with pristine beaches. Belleair Shore is the smallest town in Florida, with only 109 residents.
Go a bit further south and you’ll find the tranquil Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores. Indian Rocks Beach (often referred to as IRB) offers over two miles of beach along the Gulf of Mexico, with 27 beach accesses. IRB’s public beaches are incredibly clean and the perfect choice for dolphin watching and a serene walk along the clear blue water. Indian Shores is another laid-back community. One of its biggest highlights is the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, a non-profit dedicated to the care and release of birds that are hurt or affected by pollution.
In the heart of Pinellas County lies the family-friendly North Redington Beach located along the Boca Ciega Bay. Just south of North Redington Beach is Redington Beach, which is approximately one mile in size. Redington Beach contains four lovely parks, five public beach accesses, and a causeway that acts as a popular fishing spot for residents.
Madeira Beach is another vibrant community with a bustling commercial center. There are many shops in the area along with an eclectic boardwalk and community events year-round. Madeira Beach is also a great place to explore local wildlife—Kemp’s Ridley and Loggerhead sea turtles make this beach their temporary home in May through October. These turtles are considered endangered, and the city takes great care to protect their nests along the beach during turtle season. If you are on the beaches at the right time, you may get to witness the sea turtles leaving their nests and heading towards the ocean.
Treasure Island is another city in Pinellas County and is situated on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. The history of Treasure Island’s name is that of legends. Some developers and builders attempted to increase property sales by burying and pretending to discover wooden chests on the beach. After claiming the chests were filled with treasure, the news of the discovery spread quickly, leading people to dub it “Treasure Island.”
Just west of St. Petersburg is where you’ll find St. Pete Beach—a resort city set on a barrier island. St. Pete Beach is known for its jaw-dropping views and crystal-clear water. The Pass-A-Grille area is an excellent choice for people who love to get out on the town, with its plethora of galleries, museums, shops, and restaurants.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Each of these communities has a unique culinary scene and top-notch entertainment options.
For a bite to eat after spending time in the water at Clearwater Beach, you can stop by and enjoy a meal at Frenchy's Rockaway Grill, Shephard's Tiki Beach Bar and Grill, or Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar. For a more celebratory occasion or luxurious experience, visit Carretta on the Gulf at the award winning Sandpearl Resort, which is pure paradise on Clearwater Beach.
In the quaint town of Belleair Beach, the fresh seafood at 18 on the Rocks is not to be missed, and the patio at Guppy’s allows you to enjoy a bite against the backdrop of beautiful ocean views.
Indian Rocks Beach is home to local gem The Kooky Coconut, which serves a wide range of eats and treats, from 20 flavors of ice cream to delicious Cuban sandwiches. Seabreeze Island Grill and Raw Bar, and Crabby Bills are all favorite seafood spots, while Slyce is your go-to for the best pizza and salads. For a more upscale experience, be sure to visit the Salt Rock Grill which is a legendary beach landmark known for their hand cut U.S.D.A. prime and choice grade beef, fresh day boat caught seafood, raw bar, and amazing wine cellar.
Shoppers love the John's Pass Village and boardwalk in nearby Madeira Beach. This shopping center has everything from smoothie restaurants to boat rentals and clothing boutiques to an arcade.
Treasure Island is home to a range of amazing restaurants along the water. You can stop at Ricky T’s Bar for fresh fish tacos or grab a drink and appetizer at Shrimpys Blues Bistro. Its patio even offers an incredible view of the spectacular sunsets this area is known for. Chill Restaurant & Bar is a great espresso and liquor bar that offers New American eats for every meal, and The Pearl serves delectable seafood and specialty cocktails in an upscale setting.
In St. Pete Beach you’ll find Level 11, a rooftop lounge known for small plates and big views, and Salty’s Tiki Bar, which offers cocktails and American cuisine in a laid-back setting. In addition, Paradise Grille and Jimmy B’s Beach Bar both offer great food and live music. However, if luxury, romance, or celebrations are your pursuit, don’t miss the opportunity for an experience at The Don Cesar, which is a legendary resort and the crown jewel of Florida’s Gulf Coast since 1928.
Things to Do
There’s no shortage of things to do in this area. Pinellas County's two beachfront state parks,
Caladesi Island and
Honeymoon Island, are popular ways to spend the day, as they provide visitors with five miles of beach access on the Gulf of Mexico.
Many activities in the area revolve around the gorgeous clear water. Daredevils may choose to partake in water sports such as windsurfing, jet skiing, or parasailing. Those looking for a more low-key activity can choose to fish or go on a boat tour.
The beaches throughout Tampa Bay are a great place to celebrate any occasion. From venues that host beach weddings, resorts that make for unmatched honeymoon destinations, and sophisticated dinner cruises for anniversaries and date nights, the beauty and excitement these beaches offer is unlike anywhere else in the world.
Schools
The beaches throughout Tampa Bay are served by the Pinellas County School District.