Destination Tampa Bay: More Than Just Beautiful Beaches

The Tampa Bay area in Florida offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for a weekend excursion. Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, adventure sports, historical tours, luxury shopping, or iconic accommodations, Tampa Bay has it all. Here are some of the must-experience outings in Tampa Bay:

1. Tampa International’s Premier FBO: Tampa International Airport is known for its excellent private airport facilities. The private Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) at the airport provide modern and convenient spaces for landing. Sheltair, for example, offers a 20-acre facility with amenities such as an atrium lobby, aircraft canopies, car and valet services, luxury lounges, and meeting rooms.
2. Beautiful Beaches: St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach are renowned for their stunning beaches. These beaches offer miles of white sugary sand and clear blue waters, consistently ranking among the top beaches in the United States. Visitors can enjoy watching happy dolphin families swimming close to the shore and witness breathtaking sunsets. All of the Bay area beaches are conveniently located within a 30-minute drive from Tampa International Airport.
3. Deep Sea Fishing Charters: Embark on an unforgettable deep-sea fishing adventure from John’s Pass Marina. The Gulf waters in this area are teeming with various fish species, including grouper, sheepshead, and snapper. Fishing enthusiasts can test their skills and experience the thrill of battling oceanic creatures, with the possibility of encountering sharks or other surprises.
4. Don Cesar Hotel: For an overnight stay by the beach, the iconic Don Cesar Hotel is the ultimate choice. Known as the Pink Palace, this historic hotel has been catering to presidents, movie stars, and international dignitaries since 1928. With its luxurious accommodations, world-renowned spa, two heated pools overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, and extensive event space, the Don Cesar offers a refined experience for guests.
5. Sparkman Wharf: Situated in downtown Tampa’s Channelside district, Sparkman Wharf is part of the larger Water Street Tampa project. This waterfront park features an array of dining options, retail stores, and outdoor entertainment. Visitors can explore the biergarten and witness the ongoing development of this dynamic destination located between Tampa’s Riverwalk and Port Tampa Bay’s cruise terminal.
6. Tampa Riverwalk: The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic pedestrian pathway within walking distance of Sparkman Wharf. The Riverwalk is home to Armature Works, a repurposed mixed-use building offering diverse eateries, event spaces, and the Heights Public Market. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, situated along the Riverwalk, hosts concerts and events throughout the year, making it a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
7. Gasparilla Pirate Festival: Celebrating Tampa Bay’s pirate history, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival is an annual event held during January and February. The festival includes various activities such as the Gasparilla Parade of Pirates, which features over 140 floats, bands, and social organizations. Other events during the festival include the Gasparilla Pirate Invasion, Gasparilla Children’s Extravaganza, Gasparilla JazzFest, and the Gasparilla Distance Classic.

To enjoy pleasant weather conditions, it is recommended to visit Tampa Bay between October and April, avoiding the muggy months of May to September.