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Best Secluded Beaches Near Tampa

Published: May 31, 2023

Written byAAA Travel Editor, CW

A visit to Tampa, FL, is the perfect destination for beach lovers, with endless choices to enjoy some fun in the sun. Tampa is located on the bay on Florida's Gulf Coast, known for its warm temperatures and relaxing beaches. In order to access the best beaches near Tampa, you'll need to drive a little to find the most secluded beaches in the area.

Want to escape the crowds and find a quiet and peaceful beach to visit on your next Tampa vacation? Explore these five best-secluded beaches near Tampa on your next visit.

Philipp Michel Reichold / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5

1. Anclote River Park

Drive time: About 60 minutes from downtown Tampa

Hours: Open 7 days a week from sunrise to sunset

Cost: Free admission to Anclote River park

Know Before You Go: Located in Holiday, FL, Anclote River Park is a 300-foot beach that is perfect for active visitors and families. Anclote River Park has a designated swimming area that is roped off for safety, along with designated fishing areas and a boat lunch. Don't forget to pack lunch for you and your travel group to enjoy in the picnic pavilion. Adventurous visitors may also like the half-day private guided nature tour that departs from Anclote River Park.

istockphoto.com / TriggerPhoto

2. Upham Beach Park

Drive time: About 45 minutes from downtown Tampa

Hours: Open 7 days a week from sunrise to sunset

Cost: Free admission to the beach. If parking in metered spaces, you'll need to pay $3.25 per hour or $15 per day. Parking after 8 p.m. is free.

Know Before You Go: Upham Beach Park is located in St. Pete Beach, Florida. This spot is a great spot to visit for families. While you're there, check out Seaside Grille to enjoy beach-side dining with outdoor seating (breakfast and lunch are available). Upham Beach Park is one of the best beaches near Tampa for playing volleyball, sunbathing, and swimming. Upham Beach Park is alcohol-free and known to be family friendly. A bonus for dog lovers, dogs on leashes are allowed on the beach.

Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

3. Fort Desoto Beach & Park

Drive time: Around 50 minutes from downtown Tampa

Hours: Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Cost: Entering the beach and park is free. Parking may require fees.

Know Before You Go: This beach is massive, spanning over 1,100 acres. If you're looking for the best beaches near Tampa for hands-on activities, Fort Desoto Beach & Park is for you. Here, you'll find many activities including hiking, kayaking, and biking on the many nearby trails. This is also a family-friendly spot, with tidal pools designed for small children. If you're traveling for a romantic getaway, check out the Yacht Charter St. Petersburg Sunset Cruise located nearby.

istockphoto.com / Lemanieh

4. Apollo Beach Preserve

Drive time: About 30 minutes from downtown Tampa

Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

Cost: No entry or parking fees required

Know Before You Go: Apollo Beach Preserve is amongst the best beaches near Tampa for birdwatching. This beach does not allow swimming, however, it is dog-friendly. This is the perfect beach for taking in stunning sights and walking your dog. If you're seeking a quiet and relaxed beach to read a book or listen to a podcast, Apollo Beach Preserve is worth a visit. Fishing is also allowed here. While you're here, you may even spot the distant skylines of Tampa and St. Pete.

istockphoto.com / Kemter

5. Sand Key Park

Drive time: About 60 minutes from downtown Tampa

Hours: 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily

Cost: Entrance to Sand Key Park is free. Parking costs $5 per day.

Know Before You Go: Located just south of Clearwater, FL, Sand Key Park is known as one of the best beaches near Tampa which offers a great mix of beach views and family-friendly amenities. While you're here, don't miss the chance to observe sea turtles nesting in areas along the beach. If you're traveling with little ones, check out the boardwalk, nature trail and playground equipment at Sand Key Park. This beach also offers outdoor showers and two bathhouses with changing stalls and restrooms, to make your beach trip a breeze.

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