One of the major attractions in the Tampa Bay area is the white, sandy beaches that bring in local and international tourists alike year after year.

Some of the best beaches in Tampa Bay to enjoy the sun, sea and sand are Caladesi Island State Park, Fort De Soto Park, Clearwater Beach, Anna Maria Island and Siesta Key Crescent Beach.

Caladesi Island State Park

The glorious beach in Caladesi Island State Park was voted the #1 beach anywhere in the US in 2008. This 600 acre barrier island boasts a beach that is tranquil and perfect for beachcombing, sunbathing and swimming.

You only have 4 hours to explore this very wide and extremely clean, perfectly white beach. The sand is so soft to the touch that it’s akin to baby powder.

You can easily access the picnic and changing areas on boardwalks that stretch from the beach to these sites, including the playground. So if you’re thinking of bringing the kids out to make sandcastles and have a dip in the sea, this day use only beach is your best bet of the season.

Fort De Soto State Park

The Fort De Soto Park beach is considered by many to have the best of all the Tampa Bay beaches and even the country.

The North Beach at Fort De Soto Park was voted the #1 beach in the country by Dr. Beach hereby retiring the beach from the list. There are two beaches at the park that permit swimming – East Beach and North Beach.

North Beach is located in a lagoon that’s shallow and makes for excellent swimming. The calm, scrupulously clean and quite shallow waters are ideal for beginning swimmers with small children.

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is one of the best known and is without a doubt the most popular Tampa Bay beach. You can access this beach via a causeway that stretches for two miles from the city of Clearwater to the barrier island on which the beach is located.

The fine, white sand attracts thousands of beach lovers all year round who sun themselves along the stretch of clean sand as far as the eye can see.

You can charter boats for dolphin watching, para-sailing or cruising from the Marina. You could even go for half day fishing trips. A wide concrete pier called Pier 60 stretches across the beach and is great for you to walk on and admire the scene or watch the sun go down.

Take the Clearwater Jolley Trolley for just $1.00 and ride your way to either end of Clearwater Beach!

Anna Maria Island

Tampa Bay area is home to Anna Maria Island where you’ll find mile upon mile of pristine white beaches that beckon you for a lazy day under the sun. The emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico shimmer in the sunlight and invite you to sample this almost private beach all year long.

An excellent place for much needed rest and relaxation, the 9 miles of beach has beautiful water that’s surrounded by tropical flora and fauna. The lack of tourist inspired spots areas such as theme parks and water slides make beaches in this area feel very serene and special. 

Siesta Key Crescent Beach

Siesta Key, Florida boasts the crystal sands of Crescent Beach, an absolute jewel in terms of the peace and tranquility you’re likely to experience when there aren’t that many swimmers around.

However, the surrounding beach generally attracts people of all walks of life to enjoy the chance to play beach volleyball or swim. The powdery white sand makes you want to dig your toes in and simply soak in the sun!

The cleanliness of the beach can rival some of the best Tampa Bay area beaches with sand that’s cool to the touch. Head out early if you’re planning to spend the day on the beach as both bridges that connect to the island can be pretty heavy with traffic.

Your parking issues could be eased as well once you’re clear of the congestion that’s likely to build up on a beautiful, sunny day.

And there you have it, the five best beaches in Tampa Bay area. If you’re looking for a weekend by the sea with lots of white sand and shimmering sea, then head out to one of these spectacular beaches for a great time. Make sure you bring the whole family for some much needed fun and frolic!