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Francesca Macchio
Francesca Macchio

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A collage showcasing four different beach scenes, including a sunset, a rocky shore, a beach with a lifeguard stand and palm tree, and a pier. The image features an outline of Florida with a dolphin and text stating '5 BEACHES TO DRIVE TO FROM TAMPA'.
A collage of five images depicting Honeymoon Island, featuring a sunset path, an egret, clear water with branches, a boardwalk, and an aerial view of a sandy island. Text indicates 'HONEYMOON ISLAND 45 MINUTE'.
A collage of five images showcasing Fort De Soto Park, including an aerial view of a peninsula, clear water with structures, a sandy beach, dunes, and a wooden boardwalk. Text indicates 'FORT DE SOTO PARK 45 MINUTE'.
A collage of five images depicting Pass-a-Grille, featuring an aerial view of the coast, waves on rocks, a wide sandy beach, a pelican, and beachfront restaurants. Text indicates 'PASS-A-GRILLE 45 MINUTE'.
A collage of four images showcasing Fred Howard Park, including a beach with a lifeguard stand and palm trees, an aerial view of an island, a beach with palm trees, and an aerial view of a causeway. Text indicates 'FRED HOWARD PARK 55 MINUTE'.
A collage of five images depicting Coquina Beach, featuring an aerial view of the beach and pier, a sunset, seashells on sand, a pristine white sand beach, and another aerial view of the long beach. Text indicates 'COQUINA 1 HOUR'.
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5 Beaches Near Tampa You’ve Never Heard Of

Tampa locals, save this. These 5 beaches are within an hour of the city, you can drive straight to all of them and none of them are Clearwater. 🌊

1. Fort De Soto Park — $6 entry, clear water, historic fort

2. Honeymoon Island — drive over the causeway, way less crowded

3. Pass-a-Grille Beach — old Florida vibes at the tip of St. Pete Beach

4. Fred Howard Park — hidden causeway island in Tarpon Springs

5. Coquina Beach — southern tip of Anna Maria, free parking and tons of shells

Which one are you hitting first? 👇

#tampa #beaches #thingstodo #travel #springbreak

3/4 Edited to

... Read moreAs a local, I'm constantly searching for those hidden coastal gems, especially when the main tourist spots get a little too crowded. And trust me, there's so much more to explore near Tampa than just Clearwater! I've spent countless weekends driving around, discovering truly serene stretches of sand, many just a short 45-minute to 1-hour drive from the city. These aren't just beaches; they're experiences offering a refreshing escape from the usual hustle. Let's dive a bit deeper into why these spots are my personal go-to for a perfect, secluded beach day, addressing those 'beach drive near me' searches. Fort De Soto Park: This isn't just one beach; it's a whole park adventure, and my absolute favorite for its natural beauty and tranquility. It's so expansive, offering multiple distinct areas. The North Beach is fantastic, but for true seclusion, I often explore the quieter spots. The historic fort adds a unique touch. The $6 entry fee is small for such a pristine escape, and the scenic drive across the causeway is part of the fun. It’s a solid 45-minute drive from Tampa, feeling a world away. Honeymoon Island State Park: The name truly lives up to the experience! After a pleasant 45-minute drive and crossing the picturesque causeway, you'll feel like you've entered a different world. This island offers a natural, untouched feel. I've seen everything from playful dolphins to majestic egrets here, and the clear water is just inviting. For ultimate seclusion, consider taking the ferry from Honeymoon Island to Caladesi Island State Park – an extra layer of peace. The boardwalks through the natural vegetation are perfect for a gentle stroll. Pass-a-Grille Beach: This spot at the southern tip of St. Pete Beach feels like a step back in time. It doesn't have the high-rises or commercial glitz of its northern neighbor, which is precisely why I adore it. The 'old Florida vibes' are real here – quaint shops, charming historical buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere. I always find it worth the effort for the stunning sunsets and the chance to walk for miles on the wide, sandy beach. Keep an eye out for pelicans near the pier! The drive typically takes around 45 minutes, an easy day trip. Fred Howard Park: Tucked away in Tarpon Springs, this is one of those hidden causeway island gems that truly surprises people. It's often less crowded than the more famous Gulf beaches, making it ideal for a peaceful day. The causeway itself is a fantastic spot for fishing or just enjoying the gentle Gulf breeze. The main beach area, with its lifeguard stand and swaying palm trees, is family-friendly, but you can also find quieter stretches. The 55-minute drive up US-19 leads you to this refreshing oasis. Coquina Beach: Located at the southern tip of Anna Maria Island, Coquina is a personal favorite for shelling. I've collected some truly beautiful treasures here! What makes it even better is the abundant, free parking – a rarity on many popular Florida beaches. The long, pristine white sand beach stretches for miles, perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. The aerial views of this beach show just how expansive and beautiful it is. It's about an hour's drive, but the scenic route onto Anna Maria Island is part of the charm. Don't forget your shell bag! When planning your visit to these drive-to beaches from Tampa, I always recommend going early in the morning for the best parking and fewest crowds. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and maybe a picnic to truly make the most of these secluded Florida treasures. You'll be amazed at how much peace and beauty you can find just a short drive away!