Living in the tampa area for February.

Question

Hi,

Due to a career change and my wife’s maternity leave, we are looking at options to take a month out in February with our 4 month old daughter and stay in the Tampa area.

Travelling from the UK, the weather will give us far greater freedom and comfort.

We like walking, eating out but also want somewhere that we can actually relax and watch the world go by, so not a full on holiday style visit where we need to be doing something everyday. Bars and club areas are not on the top of our priority list due to having our wonderful daughter with us.. them days are gone lol.

Can anyone recommend any areas that we should consider to stay in ? We will be looking at Airbnb style accommodation ( or if there are any similar in the states please advise ).

I’ve read we need a car to get about and we may visit the touristy fort lauderdale and similar areas.

Kind regards.

Answer

Hi,

February is a wonderful time to spend in the Tampa area, especially coming from the UK, as the weather is generally mild, sunny, and comfortable, with average highs in the low 70s to mid-70s (°F) and relatively low humidity. This makes it ideal for walking, exploring, or just relaxing outdoors with your little one.

For your situation—travelling with a 4-month-old and looking for a mix of relaxation and light activities—there are several areas that would work well for a month-long stay. You’re correct that having a car is highly recommended, as Tampa is fairly spread out and public transport is limited. With a car, you can easily reach beaches, parks, and dining areas without much hassle.

Davis Islands: This is a quiet, residential island neighborhood just a few minutes from downtown Tampa. It has beautiful waterfront views, easy walking paths, and local cafés and restaurants. It's peaceful, family-friendly, and perfect for relaxing strolls with your daughter.
Hyde Park / Palma Ceia: Close to downtown but very residential and charming, Hyde Park offers tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and cafés. Palma Ceia, nearby, also has a classic neighborhood feel and some great dining options. Both are good for leisurely walks and exploring local culture.
Westchase: Located a bit further from downtown, Westchase is a suburban community with parks, playgrounds, and trails. It’s very family-oriented and quiet, which might be ideal for a month-long stay focused on relaxation.
Clearwater / Sand Key / Indian Rocks Beach: If you prefer being closer to the beach, Clearwater and its neighboring communities are excellent. Clearwater Beach itself is busier, but Sand Key and Indian Rocks are quieter, with calm, family-friendly beaches and boardwalks for walks.
Safety Harbor / Tarpon Springs: For a more relaxed, small-town Florida feel, Safety Harbor has a lovely waterfront park and a charming downtown. Tarpon Springs offers a unique Greek-American vibe with shops and casual dining. Both are great if you want to avoid the busier tourist areas.

For accommodation, Airbnb is widely used and works similarly to the UK. You might also consider Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner), which tends to focus more on whole-home rentals and is very popular with families. Most properties come fully equipped, and monthly rentals often include discounts for longer stays.

Other tips for your month in Tampa:

Bring or rent a car seat suitable for your infant. Rental car companies often provide them, but you can also rent from specialized services.
Consider properties with outdoor space—a patio or balcony will make it easier to enjoy fresh air without needing to go far with a baby.
Explore the nearby parks and nature reserves, like Lettuce Lake Park, Hillsborough River State Park, or Fort De Soto Park, which offer great walking trails and picnic areas.
If you plan day trips to Orlando or Fort Lauderdale, leaving early will help avoid peak traffic, and it’s a good idea to plan rest stops for your daughter.

In summary, focus on residential, family-friendly neighborhoods that are quiet but still provide access to parks, cafés, and beaches. Davis Islands and Hyde Park are great for urban charm, while Clearwater or Safety Harbor offer the beach and small-town feel. Having a car will give you the flexibility to explore at your own pace while keeping your stay relaxed and comfortable.

Living in the tampa area for February.

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