The Tampa Bay area is always bustling with activity, and its well-known beaches are no exception. Finding a parking spot is often a tricky prospect at the more popular beaches, where you’re (literally) rubbing elbows with your fellow beachgoers.
But sometimes you and your family just want some peace and quiet. A nice calm beach that only the locals know about. Several beaches fit this bill, offering a range of scenic shorelines and lots of activities to keep the family entertained.
The west-central region of Florida is often overlooked by beachgoers. This gives those who want a quiet respite from the crowds at other more well-known beaches a place to retreat. For example, the small town of Ruskin, located north of the Little Manatee River has some beautiful, pristine stretches of sand.
Many beaches in the area are less traveled and not as known as the big coastal tourist meccas like Clearwater. So, grab those beach chairs, and some sunblock, and start planning your next beach holiday at some of these quieter beach spots!
Mobbly Bayou Beach Park – A peaceful retreat, with a side of adrenaline
Florida is home to many peaceful green zones, and Mobbly Bayou Beach Park is no exception. Located in Oldsmar, it offers an amazing place to kick back for a spell and just enjoy the day. Whether it’s gathering the family for a BBQ picnic, getting some meditation in, chilling under a tree with a book, or bringing your dog along for some play time, this is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
There’s also a pier for fishing, along with a nature preserve, biking and hiking trails, and a swimming area. When you’ve had enough beach time one of the best things to do in town is visit the Oldsmar Flea Market. It’s a local market, entertainment complex, and retail area, where you can “shop local, buy local” at quirky stalls and food stands. The market has retained its small-town feel through the decades. For something a bit more adventurous, don’t miss Empower Adventures. Be prepared for a rush with its famous zip lining experience. It takes you above local lakes and reservoirs – within meters of the water itself! You’ll be led by local professionals, and safety is paramount to them.
DeSoto Park – Recreation and green spaces come together at this park in the heart of Tampa
Located in South Tampa in the Palmetto Beach neighborhood, DeSoto Park is a sports recreation heaven, offering a soccer field and basketball courts. In addition to the seasonal swimming pool (open Memorial Day weekend through mid-August) and halfpipe skateboard park, folks can take a break from city life and enjoy sheltered picnic tables and grills, and an accessible fishing pier.
There’s even an indoor recreational center where after-school programs are held. The park includes a 1.2-mile paved walking trail with lots of tree cover and plenty of green spaces. Situated right along McKay Bay, it’s a little-known area of Palmetto Beach and a true hidden gem. Parking is free and public restrooms are available. With great views overlooking the bay, this is a one-stop location for a leisurely afternoon offering numerous activities.
Apollo Beach Nature Reserve – Love manatees? Come to this local beach
Pet-friendly Apollo Beach lies along the eastern side of Tampa Bay, with three generous miles of shoreline. The beach here is quiet and uncrowded; an excellent respite from the bustle of Tampa and just six miles from Ruskin.
The beach itself feels massive because you’ll likely have much of it to yourself, particularly in the early mornings. A 37-foot observation tower was completed in 2020, offering fantastic panoramic views. The nature reserve has pavilions for picnicking along with a hiking trail, parking, and restrooms. The beach is sandy, but swimming is not allowed due to the swift currents. Still, this is the perfect beach to come and fish, birdwatch, or just lay out in the sun.
A visit to the Manatee Viewing Center is well worth bringing the family to, where wild manatees can be seen swimming around Big Bend or drifting through the bay. Nearby MiraBay Market is open every third Sunday from September through May.
Picnic Island Park – With one beach for families and another beach especially for dogs!
Another hidden gem in South Tampa, this is the perfect place to bring your family as well as your furry friend. Everyone can relax, enjoy a picnic, and the kids can frolic on the sandy beach and playground. There’s also a sand volleyball court and even a disc golf course. A designated dog beach is located near the boat ramp and fishing pier, so your pooch can get their jollies out in the sand uninhibited.
Picnic shelters are available for rent. Parking is free and public bathrooms and showers are available.
David Island Beach – Pedestrian AND dog-friendly. What’s not to love?
Made up of two islands connected by bridges, this beach is close to downtown Tampa, with views of the Port of Tampa. The largest public beach in the area, and yet seemingly unknown by a lot of visitors, this is a great place to take the family. It is lined with palm trees connecting the four-mile Courtney Campbell Trails, which are popular with picnickers, for watching boats on the bay and sunbathing.
There is a separate dog park with a picnic area nearby, canoe and boat launches, and boat ramps. Southward is Davis Island Dog Beach, not far from a private yacht club sponsoring sailing races and cruising fleets. East Davis Boulevard is the commercial district of David Island, with blocks of great restaurants, cafes, and bars, including locally owned shops.
