Your Perfect Paddles Guide to Tampa!
Do you want to SUP in Tampa but not sure where to go? Check out this comprehensive guide to paddling in and around Tampa!
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Tampa is a city located on the west coast of Florida. It is known for its laid back vibes, a lively art scene and plenty of attractions for the vacationer and paddler alike.
For most of the year, Tampa’s weather stays in a comfortable zone where outdoor activities like SUP can be enjoyed at any time.
One of the best places to enjoy SUP here is in the famous bay that sits next to the iconic city skyline. Here you will find open spaces coupled with large boats, beautiful marinas, and a great place to enjoy the sunset after a fun day on the water.
While you can spend your entire day paddling in Tampa Bay, there are also numerous paddling trails, mapped out and selected by paddlers for paddlers, that are waiting to be explored in the Tampa region. We can discuss but linking to some of the water trail maps would be cool
To give you a complete picture on what to expect when you visit Tampa and paddle on the trails, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to the area where you will learn everything you need to know to have the best time on the water!
How This Guide Works
This guide is built with you in mind. Whether you are a seasoned paddler with years of experience, or a complete beginner who needs to rent a board for paddling, we have you covered.
For those with their own boards, think of the local paddle Pros as resources for the best SUP info - where to paddle, what to look for, and when are the best times to go. They know their area best and have launch location options, and “must see/SUP” suggestions
For short term visitors who need to rent a board while you’re in town, we’ll go over where you can pick up a board, what types of boards are available, and where you can launch your board on calmer waters.
Use this comprehensive guide as your key to the information you need to have the best possible time for SUP in Tampa - both on and off the water.
Of course, if you have any questions about the area, you can always drop us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
-Perfect Paddles Travel Brief-
SUP Outfitters in the Area:
- Tampa Bay SUP
Location: 700 S. Florida Avenue Tampa
Best Offering: Tampa Bay SUP is located right on the Marriott dock. This is very convenient for guests staying at the hotel. Their best offering is their rental deals. You can take a 15 minute class followed by 45 minutes of unguided paddling on the bay. Paddle right in downtown Tampa with Tampa Bay SUP! They also have additional locations at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay at the Oystercatchers Beach 2900 Bayport Drive Tampa and The Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas Tampa at WTR Pool 7700 Courtney Campbell Causeway Tampa. With options for delivery too! - Urban Kai
Location: 13090 Gandy Blvd N St. Petersburg, FL
Best Offering: They have two fantastic offerings to fulfill your paddling desires - whether you want to SUP in nature or the city. Eco Tour through the Mangroves. Join Urban Kai for the perfect guided tour featuring a beautiful preserve right behind our shop! You will paddle around spectacular mangroves, with wildlife including manatee, dolphins and birds. The paddling trail provides an up-close look at these amazing ecosystems and seagrass beds. Downtown Tampa Tour - paddle in downtown Tampa with a personal guide to show you the sites! - Destination Paddle
Location: 2305 N Willow Ave., Tampa FL, 33607
Best Offering: Rentals! As well as a change of scenery. Destination Paddle offers the easiest way to get on the water. Located east of downtown Tampa, Destination paddle is a great way to escape the city and paddle on the river. Show up, reserve a board or two, drop in from their convenient dock location, and see the wildlife that surrounds the city!
SUP Equipment Available to Rent
The available SUP shops in the Tampa Bay area rent your standard cruising boards perfect for the bay and river paddling.
If you have a special request, we recommend asking Urban Kai first. They offer rentals of giant SUP boards and touring boards. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, reach out to Suncoast Surf Shop. They have a large inventory or specialty SUP equipment for sale.
Fun Tampa Bay Area Info (source):
- Cuban cigars were made in Tampa. Though Cuban cigars are associated with Cuba, they were made in Tampa for many years, earning the city one of its popular nicknames, the Cigar City.
- Tampa is home to famous authors. Two famous authors have lived in the area. Jack Kerouac the beat poet and novelist of the 1960’s lived in St. Petersburg and Stephen King, the popular horror writer, lives in Sarasota. Both authors were originally from New England.
- You can visit Cuba in Tampa. Jose Marti Park officially belongs to Cuba. It was given as a gift in 1956 to the island nation. Located in Ybor City, it is only .14 acres in size.
- Pirates invade the city annually. Since 1904, every year pirates sail their shop into Tampa during Gasparilla. The whole city dresses in costume and attends the celebration.
- The Cuban sandwich was invented in Tampa. The difference between a Cuban sandwich in Tampa and a Cuban sandwich in Miami is that in Tampa they added Genoa salami due to the large population of Italian immigrants involved in the cigar trade.
- The oldest Florida restaurant is in Tampa. The Columbia is Florida’s oldest restaurant as well as the biggest Spanish restaurant in the wild, capable of seating 1,700 people in various dining rooms.
- Tampa Bay is incredibly shallow. At only 12-feet deep, Tampa Bay is shallow and it is also the largest estuary in Florida - defined as having both salt and fresh water mixed together. Channels are dredged to allow ships to navigate the water.
- Tampa has never gone over 100 degrees in temperature.
- Port Tampa Bay is the largest in Florida. It is situated 25 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and generates over $15 billion in revenue.
- Bayshore Boulevard has the longest sidewalk at 4.5 miles. This path runs entirely along the water. It’s a great place to walk, run, or bike. You will see old manor homes and feel fresh sea breezes.
Best Time of Year to Visit:
Tampa is one of the few places that can be visited year-round. Whether you go in the heat of summer and enjoy the beautiful beaches, or during the winter for a fun time around the city in 60-70 degree weather, Tampa can be enjoyed at any time.
However, if you want to avoid the crowds, and the stifling heat, a trip to Tampa during the winter will be a better choice. You won’t need a wetsuit for paddling and the weather is still pleasantly warm!
Average Temperature/Seasons for SUP in Tampa:
Much of Florida has a hot and humid climate. During the summer months, on the coast, the average daily high temperature hovers around 90°F with a low reaching around 50°F during the winter months depending on location. Freezing temperatures are rare, even in winter.
Summer - June through September. This is the high season for tourists. And also the busiest time for paddle boarding. Rental shops will be emptied by vacationers and the beaches will be full. Take this into account before booking your trip during the busiest time of year!
Fall - September through November. While the beginning of September may stay warm and humid, by the time the beginning of October rolls around, the best conditions for paddling come along with it. The tourists levels drop off, rental stores will have available equipment, consider this one of the best times to visit Tampa.
Winter - November through February. This is the coolest time of the year for SUP in Tampa. The average temperatures stay in the 65-70 degree Farenheit range with nighttime temperatures dropping to around 51 degrees. The tourists drop off completely during this time and it is likely you will be paddling alone, or at least with only locals.
Spring - March through May. The most desirable time to be outdoors. Average temperatures range between 70 degrees and 85 with low humidity and gentle winds. This might be the best time to visit Tampa as the tourists haven’t come in yet in heavy numbers and the weather is perfect.
SUP Environments to Paddle In
Gulf of Mexico
Intracoastal Waterways
Potential Water Hazards
A few of the paddling trails that surround Tampa are tidal. This can mean the direction and difficulty of the paddle can be greatly affected by either an outgoing to incoming tide - depending on the time of day and the direction you are paddling.
It is always a great idea to consult a tide chart before you head onto the water.
And before you decide to drop into the water, follow this simple checklist to make sure you and your paddling buddies are safe throughout your experience (source):
1. WEAR A PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD)!
Florida law requires a readily accessible Coast Guard approved PFD for each occupant. Children younger than six years-old are required to wear a PFD.
2. Know the waterway conditions and be aware of water levels and currents.
Tides and winds can significantly affect the difficulty of a trip. Under normal conditions, allow a minimum of two miles per hour paddling time.
3. FILE A FLOAT PLAN AND LEAVE IT WITH A RELIABLE PERSON.
A float plan contains information about your trip in the event that you do not return as scheduled. This includes a description of the vessel(s), names of all paddlers, planned course and stops, and an estimated time of return. Ask the person to notify the Coast Guard or local authorities if you do not return as scheduled. Don't forget to get in touch with your contact person and let them know when you return
4. Bring plenty of food and water.
Drinks should be in non-breakable containers . Food and gear should be stored in watertight containers. For day trips, 1/2 gallon of water per person in recommended. For overnight trips, one gallon of water per person each day is recommended.
5. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
Wear sunglasses, a hat, and long sleeves and pants even on cloudy days. Long sleeves and pants also helps prevent insect bites.
6. Watch for motorboats.
Stay on the right and turn into the boat's wake. Respect anglers by giving them plenty of room.
7. Bring a cell phone or VHF radio.
Cell phones are great for staying in communication, but coverage may be sporadic depending on your specific location.
8. Respect wildlife.
Do not approach or harass wildlife, as they can be dangerous. It is also illegal to feed them.
In addition, there may be small alligators in the water as well. To avoid any dangerous run-ins, it’s always best to stick to areas with higher boat traffic. Gators are much more likely to be in areas where the water is calm and undisturbed.
Most gators will stay away from anything that is bigger than them. If you are paddling a 10 '6' board’ up to a 14’ board you will likely scare off any smaller ones. If you happen to see a large gator in the area calmly paddle away from it without making any loud noises or extra splashing motions.
It is also best to proceed with caution during gator mating season and hatchling season as well.
“April is the final month of Florida's dry season and the beginning of the alligators' annual courtship. Most alligator mating takes place in May and June, with nesting in late June and July. Females lay an average of 32 to 46 eggs which hatch in late summer or early fall.” (source)
Always be on the lookout when paddling in Florida!
Wind and Weather and Where/When to Paddle
The wind will vary for SUP in Tampa. To paddle during the calmest times during the day it is recommended that you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
You can avoid most windy conditions by sticking to the back areas of the bay or through the intracoastal waterways. In these locations, you are often protected from the winds by the mangroves that grow there.
The weather in Tampa is fairly consistent. In the morning, expect clear, blue skies. On occasion clouds can roll in during the early afternoons with an occasional rainstorm during the winter months.
Special Note:
Hurricane season is official June 1st - November 30th on the East Coast of Florida. Even though hurricanes may dissipate before they reach land or veer over the Gulf of Mexico, they can still impact your paddling experience. Always refer to a wind and weather app before heading onto the water - or talk with a local paddling professional or outfitter to gain insider knowledge on the area.
SUP Activity Highlights:
Paddle Trails
Eco-Tours
Wildlife Tours
SUP Meetup Groups in the Area
Upper Tampa Bay Paddle Sports: Our group is dedicated to SUP (stand up paddle boarding) as well as land paddling and the many aspects of learning to paddle, the training associated with paddling and overall fitness as well as adventure tours. We actively provide a variety of fun, social, group based paddle adventures in picturesque settings under the guide of instructors certified by the WPA and Sierra Club. We focus on enjoying our natural resources while promoting conservation.
The Tampa Stand Up Paddlers Group: Looking for members who share our common love for stand up paddling. This sport is an emerging sport with a Hawaiian heritage. If you’re looking for an intense core and upper-body workout, this is it. Balancing on the board works your core muscles and paddling hits every muscle through your arms, legs, abdominals and back. Additionally, exercising outdoors will although us to enjoy hours of peace and quiet. Floating on water, you can watch the sunrise or sunset, feel the calm sea breeze and watch amazing marine life pass underneath you.
Tampa Surf and SUP: We are a local group of surfers, paddleboarders, and beach lifestyle enthusiasts. This group is for anyone interested in surfing locally in Pinellas and surf trips to the east coast and other breaks. We also do SUP, kayak and fishing when there is no surf!
To see a full list of meetup groups, click here.
Hotels/Price Ranges
There are numerous places to stay in the Tampa area. We always recommend doing your own research before booking. However, to give you an idea on the prices you should expect we’ve listed a few options below.
Tampa Marriott Westshore: $289/night
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino: $254
Floridian Palace Hotel: $251
Holiday Inn Express Tampa USF Busch Gardens: $146
Camping Areas
SUP in Tampa Bay
Often the best place to SUP in Tampa is right in the bay. Here you will be able to see the iconic city skyline from your board, while also pinpointing where you might grab a bite to eat, a store to shop in, or just relax while watching the action in the city.
If you are going to SUP in Tampa Bay we recommend contacting the shops above to secure your board, book your tour, or schedule your first lesson.
However, if you are an experienced paddler, have your own board, and want to paddle outside of the bay, we recommend the following launch locations.
Launch Locations:
St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach is close to the similarly named city of St. Petersburg. This spot is best known for its outdoor water sports enthusiasts. The beach often attracts windsurfers, kiteboarders, parasailers, and stand up paddlers.
But what makes St. Pete Beach, a great place to SUP in Tampa is the beautiful combination of white sand and crystal clear waters. It also rarely get overcrowded and with a safe, sandy bottom, it is a fantastic place to learn how to SUP. Or spend the afternoon sunbathing on the beach in between sessions.
Fred Howard Park
To get to Fred Howard Park you first have to drive over a mile-long causeway into the Gulf of Mexico. So already, you will be in the thralls of an adventure if you decide to paddle here. Once there, parking is easy to find on most weekdays. On weekends, it might be a little crowded - be prepared with a Plan B if this is the case.
What makes this park a place you must SUP in Tampa is of course, the beautiful gulf waters, shimmering in turquoise, and the matching white, sandy beaches. It’s a Caribbean feel right off the coast of Tampa. It is also a great place to watch the sunset, swim in the calm waters, or give SUP yoga a try since this section of the gulf is relatively calm throughout the day.
Head here if you want to enjoy a relaxing day on the beach with a little SUP action mixed in between.
Lettuce Lake Park
Lettuce Lake Park consists of 240 acres of mangrove jungles and water space to paddle. It costs just $2 to enter the park and there are paddle boards conveniently for rent inside. In addition, there is a 350 ft boardwalk that runs through the park that you can walk on if the weather does not cooperate. Or use it as a way to check out any potential launch locations before you decide to go.
Some wildlife you might meet once inside include snapper turtles and alligators. Refer to our previous section on what to do if you see an alligator in the water. Overall, Lettuce Lake Park is an excellent place to SUP in Tampa on your board or on foot!
Weedon Island Preserve
The Weedon Island preserve consists of a 4-mile paddling trail for SUP in Tampa. These trails are what makes Tampa and the state of Florida a fun and exciting place to experience on a SUP. This one will take you over seagrass beds and through mangroves where you are likely to see many of the abundant wildlife native to the west coast of Florida.
Located just 15 minutes outside of St. Petersburg, the preserve covers 3,190 acres and is full of narrow waterways just waiting to be explored on a SUP. In addition, there are boardwalks and walkways that are ideal for the non-paddle enthusiast to explore and still have fun. One note to keep in mind - always check the tide charts and water quality before you make your way here. This is to ensure the water is high enough to paddle and it’s clean enough in case you happen to fall in!
SUP in Tampa Bay Paddling Trails
Outside of the iconic bay lies a series of paddling trails marked by paddlers for paddlers. These trails consist of intracoastal waterways that can be easily explored on a SUP. Most, if not all of the locations have been mapped out by previous paddlers. You can find information, as well as maps, on each location through this government website.
Alafia River
This paddling trail consists of a 10-mile stretch that provides the paddler with a bit of excitement with occasional shoals and portions of easy rapids. However, when the water is high and the current strong, this trail is not for beginners. On those occasions it might be best to either stick to the bay or pick a different paddling trail to enjoy.
Additional Information on the trail (source):
#1, Start of the Trail, Alderman's Ford Regional Park
This park was named after James Alderman who sloped the banks in this spot along the Alafia River in 1848 in order to create a ford for his wagons. Picnics became common at the site and beginning in 1902, Democratic Party candidates in Hillsborough County started their political campaigns here. This trend continued for more than 60 years.
The park has camping, nature center and canoe rentals. Launching at the park is a bit of a distance so consider bringing wheels. (No overnight parking unless camping). Directions: From SR 60, turn south on to CR 39, then west onto Thompson Road. From CR 640, turn north on to CR 39, then west onto Thompson Road.
#2, End of the Trail, mile 10. Lithia Springs County Park
Paddlers are not allowed to paddle into the spring area, the boat launch is just downstream. Camping is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Park hours vary with the season. Directions: Lithia Springs County Park is located one mile east of CR 640 on Lithia Springs Road.
Hillsborough River
The Hillsborough River is one of the most popular paddling spots for SUP in Tampa. And for good reason. During the winter months the wildlife is plentiful and the tourists are sparse. In addition, there are several shorter sections of the river that are perfect for beginners.
Due to the length of the river and the varying conditions the route has been separated into sections. These include the North, Seventeen Runs (the most difficult stretch), the Middle, and the South. How you decide to paddle the trail is completely up to you as there are plenty of access points along the way.
The best beginner stretch is the North section - it includes a scenic 3-mile trip from Hillsborough River State Park to Dead River Park. We recommend tackling this section of the river before testing yourself on hard stretches. This will allow you to get used to the conditions and scenery on an easy section.
Additional information on the trail (source):
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#1, Start of the trail, Hillsborough River State Park
This 3-mile section of the river is very scenic and easy for beginner paddlers. Canoes can be rented at the state park for the short paddle down to Dead River Park.
A canoe/kayak launch is available at parking lot #4. Directions: From I-75, Southbound from Ocala take exit #279, SR 54 east to Hwy 301, travel south for 6 miles. From I-75, northbound from Tampa take the exit #265, Fowler Ave., east to Hwy 301, travel north for 9 miles. I-4, west bound take exit 10, CR 579 north to US 301, turn and go north 7 miles. And from I-4, east bound take Exit 7, go 14 miles north on US 301.
#2, Mile 3.0, Dead River Park, 15098 Dead River Rd., Thonotosassa
Situated at the confluence of Dead River and the Hillsborough River, this park is a pleasant place to unwind and is a site on the Great Florida Birding Trail. Nature lovers appreciate a scenic two-mile trail alongside the Hillsborough River. This is the start of the challenging Seventeen Runs segment. This park also offers a group camp by reservation only. Directions: Dead River Park is located 8 miles north of Tampa on US Highway 301 at the end of Dead River Road.
#3, Mile 7.5, John B. Sargent, Sr., Memorial Park, 12702 US 301, Thonotosassa
The 4-mile section between Sargeant Park and Morris Bridge Park is very popular with local paddlers and outfitters and is generally well-maintained. The park has a concrete slab ramp capable of handling boats to up to twenty feet and also allows night time access to the boat ramp for evening or early morning ventures on the river. The park has parking for up to ten trailers/vehicles. Primary use of the ramp is for small boats and canoes.
From the river, the boat ramp and entrance to Sargeant Park is located 100 yards up a small canal off of the main river channel. As paddlers emerge from the Seventeen Runs, the Hillsborough River turns right. The entrance to the small canal leading to Sargeant Park is straight ahead. Directions: From I-75, exit onto Fowler Ave. and head east 1.5 miles. Turn left onto US 301 and head north 3.5 miles. Park entrance is on the left.
#4, Mile 11.5, Morris Bridge Park, 13330 Morris Bridge Rd., Thonotosassa
The 3-mile section between Morris Bridge Park and Trout Creek Park is best for intermediate paddlers as it has some narrow sections that may have swift currents and log jams. The park is located about half-way between Sargeant Park and Trout Creek Park and is often used as a rest stop.
Pull up on sandy beach adjacent to boat ramp. The ramp is a concrete slab designed for small boats, canoes and kayaks. There is parking available for up to ten vehicles with trailers. The river downstream from the park becomes narrow and difficult to navigate. Directions: Morris Bridge Park is located 5 miles east of I-75 (exit 266, Fletcher Ave.) on Morris Bridge Road (do not turn west at exit onto Fletcher Avenue).
#5, Mile 14.5, Trout Creek Park, 12550 Morris Bridge Rd., Thonotosassa
Located near the mouth of Trout Creek, this property on the Hillsborough River is popular for fishing, canoeing and group picnics. It is a pleasant place to get away for a midday break or to take small children for a mini-adventure. Directions: Trout Creek Park is located directly east of I-75 at the Fletcher Avenue exit (do not head west at exit on Fletcher Avenue). Head northeast on Morris Bridge Road 0.5 miles. Park entrance is on the left.
#6, Mile 17.5, Lettuce Lake Park, 6920 E Fletcher Ave., Tampa
The 240-acre site offers something for everyone. Wooded picnic areas and playground are family favorites. A bicycle path/jogging trail, complete with a fitness course, meander through the park. Lettuce Lake is also a haven for nature study. An interpretive center, featuring exhibits, leads to a 3,500 ft. boardwalk and a 3-story observation tower where visitors can view an extensive variety of wildlife. The park also has canoes/kayaks available for rent. It is a 400-foot carry along a shelled path to the launch site. Directions: From I-75 take exit 266 (Fletcher Avenue). Drive west on Fletcher Avenue 0.8 miles to park’s entrance on the right.
#7, Mile 20, Rotary Park, 11700 Terrace Point Ct., Temple Terrace
The Park offers picnic areas and plenty of views of the Hillsborough River. The boat ramp is constructed of grooved concrete slabs. The ramp has a loading and unloading dock and is capable of handling mid-sized boats twenty five feet in length. There is parking in the park for twenty vehicles with trailers. Directions: Rotary Park is located 0.2 miles west of I-75 on Fowler Avenue.
#8, Mile 25.5, Riverhills Park, 401 S. Riverhills Dr., Tampa
This section of the river passes through many neighborhoods. As the river winds closer towards Tampa, the housing and development becomes more apparent. The Boat Ramp is constructed of an ungrooved concrete slab capable of handling boats up to twenty feet in length. The ramp is not a steep ramp so check water levels if using a larger boat. The park has parking for ten vehicles/trailers. Directions: From I-75 southbound, take exit 265 to SR582, turn left and go 2.0 miles to E. Riverhills Dr., Go short distance and turn right onto Sunnyside Rd. The name changes to S Riverhills Dr. and park is 0.5 miles further
#9, End of the trail, Rowlett Park, 2401 E. Yukon St., Tampa
Nestled along a bend in the Hillsborough River, the Rowlett Park Trail provides two miles of asphalt trail meandering through oak and pine hammocks. Nature trails cross the park. This park is adjacent to a major dam that spans the entire width of the Hillsborough River. Access to the river is available above and below the dam within the park.
Anyone wishing to travel downriver of the dam will need to portage their boat several hundred yards around the dam. Above the dam, for about 5 miles, the river widens considerably. Motorboats and high winds are possible in this section. Between Trout Creek Park and I-75 the river flows through a large flood gate. This gate is usually open and poses no problem to paddlers except during times of high water when it is closed. Directions: From I-275, exit at Busch Blvd. and head east to N. 22nd Street, then drive south towards the park.
Little Manatee River
The Little Manatee River paddling trail is located just 25 miles from Tampa - making it the most convenient location of our trails spots for SUP in Tampa. The start of the trail begins in a swampy area near Fort Lonesome and heads west for about 40 miles before entering into Tampa Bay.
In just a day’s paddle it transitions from a 10-20’ wide creek to a 300’ wide tide influenced river. It’s quite a shock for paddlers who have completed the entire trail!
The designated trail begins just south of Little Manatee River State Park and has multiple spots where you can rest, stretch, and maybe grab a snack.
Additional Information on the trail (source):
#1, Start of the Trail, Canoe Outpost, US 301 Bridge
You can park at the bridge or pay a small fee and park and launch more securely at the nearby Canoe Outpost. From I-75, exit #240 at SR 674 and go east about 3 miles to US 301. Turn right (south) onto 301 and follow about 3 miles to bridge and cross to the southwest side.
#2, Mile 3.0, Little Manatee River State Park,
Check with the staff at the entrance gate for information about access to the river. Directions: From I-75, exit at SR 674 (College Ave). Follow 674 east 3 miles to US 301. Turn right (south) onto 301. After 4 miles, turn right onto Lightfoot Rd. The park entrance is on the right.
#3, Mile 6.5, 24th Street Access,
A universally accessible launch is located next to Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center . Parking is very limited and turnarounds can be challenging. From I-75, exit at SR 674 (College Ave.) and head west. Drive 1 mile and turn left (south) onto 24th Street. There is no traffic light at this intersection. Drive 2.5 miles to the river access.
#4, Mile 10.0 End of the trail, Wildcat Park,
The Park is on the west bank with a boat launch; plenty of parking but no toilets. From US 41 in Ruskin, turn east onto Universal Drive. Travel 0.5 miles and take a right onto Stephens Road. Follow Stephens Road about 2.5 miles as it winds around a number of sharp turns and ends at Wildcat Park.
Additional Activities When You Are Not on the Water
Top Restaurants in New Smyrna Beach:
Armani’s: A Northern Italian trattoria atop the Grand Hyatt offering Tampa Bay views in an elegant setting.
Bern’s Steak House: Opened in 1956, this destination features dry-aged steaks, a huge wine list & flocked wallpaper.
The Black Pearl: Swanky atmosphere for elevated American eats with a seafood focus in a high-end dining room.
Rooster and the Till: Dinner destination for inventive, locally sourced New American small plates in a rustic-chic space.
Gangchu: Industrial-style eatery serving Korean staples & weekend brunch, plus beer, wine & cocktails.
Xtreme Tacos: Tacos, burritos, nachos & other hearty Mexican dishes in a relaxed venue that has vegan options.
Additional Attractions if the Wind and Weather Don’t Cooperate (Click on the links for additional information on each location):
Florida, of course, is known for Disney World. And while the massive theme parks are always worth a visit, we’ll also list a few additional options worth exploring. Let’s discover some more!
Tampa Bay CityPASS: Tampa Bay CityPASS® tickets include prepaid admission to Tampa Bay’s must-see attractions and save travelers 54% off the price of the same tickets purchased separately. Plus CityPASS tickets are valid 9 consecutive days, giving you ample time to experience each attraction.
Includes prepaid admission to 5 must-see attractions:
- Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay – Admission to Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay
- The Florida Aquarium – General Admission
- ZooTampa at Lowry Park – General Admission
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium – General Admission
- Choice Ticket: Choose between Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) – Admission to permanent exhibits, including Dinovations Lab, Connectus and Idea Zone OR The Tropics Boat Tours – One Dolphin Exploration Tour or Sunset Celebration Cruise
St. Petersburg Speed Boat Adventure: Enjoy a fully narrated, 13-mile tour through Tampa Bay and along the St. Pete waterways. View the beautiful Florida coast, including National Wildlife Refuges, and more!
Historic Ybor City Food and Drink Walking Tour: Take a guided tour through the city streets of historic Ybor while tasting the food along the way!
The Florida Aquarium: Rated among the best aquariums in the US, The Florida Aquarium welcomes visitors to experience a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park: ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a 63-acre nonprofit zoo located in Tampa, Florida. In 2009, Lowry Park Zoo was voted the #1 Family Friendly Zoo in the US by Parents Magazine, and is recognized by the State of Florida as the center for Florida wildlife conservation and biodiversity.
Tampa Museum of Art: The Tampa Museum of Art is located in downtown Tampa, Florida. It exhibits modern and contemporary art, as well as Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities.
Museum of Science and Industry: MOSI is the intersection of science, technology and innovation in the Tampa Bay region where conversations and learning happen, knowledge is exchanged and new ideas are celebrated.
Busch Gardens: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a 335-acre African-themed animal theme park located in Tampa, Florida. Owned and operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, the park has an annual attendance consistently exceeding 4 million, often ranking second among SeaWorld parks behind SeaWorld Orlando.
The Florida Fun Continues…
We hope you enjoyed our Perfect Paddles Guide to SUP in Tampa. This large coastal town is full of plenty of sites to see, a cool art district, and some of the best paddling trails in the world.
In addition, Tampa boasts the fun theme park of Busch Gardens and is just a short hour drive inland to the world famous Walt Disney resort.
Looking for a location outside of Tampa? Then check out the rest of our Florida resources by clicking on our SUP Search section on Perfect Paddles! The fun in Florida never ends and we hope to help guide you in creating the perfect trip down south!
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