Tampa Area Recommendations

Hello,

I’m visiting Florida with my partner for 5 days in May, arriving late on Sunday night and flying out on Friday afternoon. I’m finding it difficult to choose somewhere to stay and would love some recommendations. We’ll have a hire car so we’ll be able to get around easily.

Some things we’d like to do are:

- Crystal River to (hopefully) see the manatees

- Have a beach day

- Go for a hike

- Visit a city

I’m not sure if we should book a hotel in Tampa or near one of the beaches on the other side of the bay (e.g. Clearwater), or somewhere else entirely. Any recommendations for nice beaches and places to go for a hike would also be very helpful.

Thank you 😊

It sounds like you have an exciting trip ahead! With 5 days to explore the Tampa area, you’ll definitely have time to enjoy both the city and some of the surrounding natural beauty. I’ll break down a few options for places to stay and things to do, based on your interests.

Since you have a rental car, you have great flexibility to explore both Tampa and nearby beaches. You could either stay in Tampa and take day trips to the nearby beaches and hiking areas, or you could opt for staying closer to the coast to be near the water while still having easy access to the city. Here are some suggestions:

• Stay in Tampa: Staying in the city would give you easy access to some fun urban attractions, but you'd also be close to several day trip destinations. Tampa offers great dining, museums, and some beautiful parks. It’s also very close to both Crystal River and the beaches, so you can easily drive out for day trips.
• Stay in Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach: If you’re more into being by the water, staying in Clearwater Beach or nearby St. Pete Beach would give you direct beach access and a relaxed vibe. Both locations offer beautiful beaches and a variety of restaurants and activities. These areas are also close to the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast, and you can easily drive to Tampa for a city day trip.
• Stay in Dunedin or Tarpon Springs: These are smaller towns along the coast, just a short drive from Clearwater Beach. They offer a quieter atmosphere and have local charm. Tarpon Springs, for example, is known for its Greek heritage and sponge docks, while Dunedin has quaint shops and a lovely waterfront. Both are ideal for a more low-key, authentic Florida experience.

Here are some specific activities that might interest you:

• Crystal River – Manatee Viewing: Crystal River is one of the best places in Florida to see manatees, especially in the colder months when they gather near the springs. In May, it’s still a good time to see them, but do book a tour in advance. Several operators offer boat tours and even snorkeling with the manatees, though if you prefer to just observe, there are manatee viewing areas as well.
• Beach Day: Clearwater Beach is widely considered one of the best beaches in Florida, with soft white sand and calm waters. It’s perfect for a day of sun and relaxation. You can also explore St. Pete Beach, which is a little quieter but equally stunning. Both beaches have great options for dining, beach bars, and activities. If you prefer a less touristy experience, head over to Caladesi Island State Park, which offers pristine beaches and is accessible by ferry from Honeymoon Island.
• Hiking: For a hike, consider visiting Hillsborough River State Park, located about 30 minutes from downtown Tampa. The park offers beautiful trails, wildlife viewing, and a peaceful setting. If you’re interested in something closer to the water, check out Fort De Soto Park (near St. Pete Beach), which has lovely trails, picnic areas, and birdwatching opportunities. For a bit of a unique experience, explore the Myakka River State Park
• City Visit – Tampa: In Tampa, you can explore the Tampa Riverwalk, visit the Tampa Museum of Art, or spend time at Busch Gardens (if you’re interested in theme parks). Tampa’s Ybor City neighborhood has a rich history and great spots for dining and drinks. You could also take a trip to the Tampa Bay History Center or enjoy the Florida Aquarium for some indoor activities if the weather isn’t ideal.