15 AMAZING Day Trips from Tampa
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While there are plenty of fun things to do in Tampa itself, one of the things I love most about living here is how many amazing places are just a short drive away! There are so many incredible day trips from Tampa that make it impossible to ever be bored—from quiet beach towns and charming historic spots to crystal-clear springs where you can float alongside manatees.
Whether you’re craving a change of scenery, a little adventure, or just a relaxing escape, these Tampa day trips are the perfect excuse to hit the road and explore something new!
Best Day Trips from Tampa
1. Weeki Wachee
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 1 hour
Weeki Wachee Springs easily takes the top spot for one of the best day trips from Tampa—it’s honestly my favorite place I’ve discovered in Florida! Any day at a spring is a good day, but Weeki Wachee just has something special.
If you plan to kayak or paddleboard (which I highly recommend), make sure to reserve ahead of time, especially in the summer. The river is shallow, crystal clear, and perfect for a relaxing paddle. You can even bring a small cooler with snacks and drinks to enjoy along the way.
My favorite part? The manatees. Almost every time I’ve been, I’ve seen them swimming right alongside or under my kayak—it never gets old!
If you can, book a clear kayak for an even better view of the spring’s beauty. And before you head out, check out Buccaneer Bay Waterpark and the famous Mermaid Show—they’re Weeki Wachee staples.
2. Safety Harbor
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 30 minutes
Safety Harbor is one of those charming little towns that instantly makes you slow down and relax. It’s got that small-town, coastal Florida feel—lined with cute boutiques, cozy cafes, and local restaurants that make it perfect for a laid-back day trip from Tampa. The waterfront park and pier are great for strolling, and there’s always something happening downtown, from farmers markets to local festivals.
Some of the best things to do in Safety Harbor:
- Check out Main Street – Main Street is full of adorable shops, dining, and galleries. You will see plenty of bistro-style seating and lots of people strolling and enjoying the fresh air.
- Enjoy a craft beer or two at some breweries – Crooked Thumb and Troubled Waters Brewing are must-stops if you’re exploring the area!
- Catch a movie at Gigglewaters – Gigglewaters is a super cute venue and unique experience with food, craft cocktails, and movie screenings. It’s a great date night spot! Check out their upcoming screenings and head over to check them out!
- Experience the magic of Whimzeyland – Just a little walk from Main Street, you will find Whimzeyland. You may be asking yourself, “What on earth is Whimzeyland?” I asked myself the same thing. Bright colors, tiled mosaics, junk art animals, and over 800 painted bowling balls all come together to create Whimzeyland.
- Grab a bite at Bar Fly – If you’re hungry, Bar Fly is a local favorite! And for good reason. They serve sandwiches, tacos, and delicious bloody marys. It’s definitely a great lunch spot.
Check out my full guide on the best things to do in Safety Harbor here!
3. Ybor City
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 10 minutes give or take
Technically part of Tampa, Ybor City definitely deserves its own spotlight. This historic neighborhood has such a distinct personality—colorful, a little gritty, and full of life. Once known for its cigar factories, it’s now a mix of history, culture, and nightlife.
During the day, you can explore vintage shops, grab Cuban coffee, or even hand-roll your own cigar. At night, Ybor completely transforms with live music, bars, and an energetic crowd. It’s one of those places that always keeps things interesting and feels totally different from the rest of Tampa.
Some of the best things to do in Ybor City:
- Indulge in authentic Cuban cuisine – There are so many amazing restaurants in Ybor! You will even stumble on some of the best Cuban sandwiches in Tampa here!
- Sip around the area – Explore the local brewery scene, visit the Gasparilla Distillery (one of the best distilleries in Tampa!), enjoy some mead at Cigar City Cider & Mead, or grab a Cuban coffee from one of the best coffee shops in Ybor.
- Immerse yourself in the art of cigar making – J.C. Newman Cigar Company offers cigar rolling classes where you can discover the rich history and tradition of cigar production in Ybor City.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Ybor – Whether you feel like dancing on the bar at Coyote Ugly or catching an unforgettable show at the historic Ritz, Ybor offers plenty of options of hotspots to suit every taste.
Check out my full guided on the best things to do in Ybor here!
4. Dunedin
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 40 minutes
Dunedin is such a charming little coastal town just a short drive from Tampa, and it’s one of my favorite spots for a relaxed day trip. Think quaint downtown streets lined with boutique shops, delicious restaurants, and colorful murals, all with a laid-back, small-town vibe.
The waterfront is gorgeous, making it perfect for a stroll or grabbing a bite with a view, and the town has this artsy, welcoming energy that makes it feel like a hidden gem in the Tampa Bay area.
Some of the best things to do in Dunedin:
- Hit the Beaches – Spend the day at Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island, or the Dunedin Causeway for sun, sand, and water activities.
- Bike the Pinellas Trail – Explore Dunedin by bike and discover breweries, restaurants, cafes, and cute spots along the way.
- Foodie Hopping – So many amazing restaurants in Dunedin! Don’t just stop at one—share small bites from a few places to get the full culinary experience.
- Bars + Nightlife – There are plenty of fun bars in Dunedin! Check out Sonder Social Club for craft cocktails and speakeasy vibes or Reboot for a retro nightcap with pinball, arcade games, board games, and more.
- Local Shopping & Art – Explore downtown Dunedin’s boutiques, galleries, and colorful murals for a small-town artsy vibe.
Check out my full Dunedin, Florida guide for more!
5. Clearwater Beach
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 40 minutes
Clearwater Beach is definitely more touristy than some of the other spots on this list, but having worked on this beach for years, I can tell you it’s easy to see why it’s so popular (it’s even growing in popularity as a bachelorette destination)! With its sugar-white sand, sparkling Gulf waters, and iconic pier, Clearwater Beach has a lively, sun-soaked vibe that’s perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
Some of the best things to do in Clearwater Beach:
- Cruisin Tiki’s – A floating bar for 21+. Bring your own booze and snacks, and they provide cups, ice, a blender, and a fun way to cruise the Gulf of Mexico.
- Pier 60 – One of the most iconic spots in Clearwater Beach. Check out the views, go fishing, or visit for the evening sunset celebration—don’t skip it!
- Beach bars + relaxing on the sand – Clearwater has so many lively beach bars with amazing cocktails. Shephard’s has outdoor music, a dance floor, and games, plus there are awesome rooftop bars to vibe at.
- Fresh seafood – So many amazing restaurants in Clearwater Beach serving crab legs, grouper, snapper, oysters, and more. Start your morning with lobster eggs Benedict from one of Clearwater Beach’s yummy breakfast restaurants or enjoy a seafood feast for lunch or dinner!
Check out my full list of fun things to do in Clearwater Beach!
6. St. Pete Beach
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 40 minutes
St. Pete Beach is one of those spots that instantly makes you feel like you’re on vacation—even if it’s just a quick day trip from Tampa. With its soft sandy shores, calm waters, and that laid-back Florida beach vibe, it’s the perfect place to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy some fun in the water!
From lively beach bars to hidden spots perfect for a sunset stroll, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your time here.
Some of the best things to do in St. Pete Beach:
- Grab a coffee at Surf, Grove, and Coffee – No day trip to St. Pete Beach is complete without a stop at Grove. Their lattes are seriously good, especially the seasonal flavors! Plus, it’s a cute little boutique if you feel like a bit of shopping before hitting the beach.
- Eat fresh seafood – There are so many great restaurants on St. Pete Beach! I love Shells, or Brass Monkey if you’re looking for amazing restaurants in Pass-A-Grille.
- Hit the water or relax on the sand – Go on one of the amazing boat tours in St. Pete to see the area from the water, or just chill in front of Coconut Charlie’s, where you can enjoy fun drinks, beach games like volleyball, giant pong, and Jenga. It’s one of my favorite St. Pete beach bars!
- Upgrade your beach day with the Cabana Club – They handle all the details: shade, towels, cooler, speaker, everything. You just show up and soak up the sun.
- Sip at Florida Orange Groves Winery – Take a break from the sand and try some tropical and fruity wines at one of my favorite wineries in Tampa Bay. Tastings and tours are available daily, and it’s such a fun way to add a little wine break to your beach day.
Check out more fun things to do in St. Pete Beach!
7. Downtown St. Pete
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 35 minutes
Downtown St. Pete is such a fun spot to explore, and while you could easily combine it with a day at St. Pete Beach, I honestly think each deserves its own day. The vibe here is totally different—artsy, lively, and full of character. From the colorful murals and cool local shops to some of my favorite coffee spots, breweries, and restaurants, there’s so much to see and do!
Some of the best things to do in downtown St. Pete:
- St. Pete Pier – One of the most iconic spots in the city! Whether you’re here for the views, to fish, or to check out the shops and restaurants, the pier is a must. The sunsets? Absolutely breathtaking.
- Brewery Hop – Downtown St. Pete is packed with breweries, and hopping from one to the next is such a fun way to spend an afternoon. Grab a flight at a few spots and soak in the lively local vibe. If that’s not your vibe, there are also a ton of great wine bars in St. Pete!
- The Dali Museum – A little culture never hurts! The surreal art and stunning architecture make this museum a unique experience, plus it’s a perfect way to break up the day with something different.
- Experience the Nightlife – This is hands down one of my favorite areas to go out in Tampa Bay. There are so many bars all within walking distance, each with a different vibe—perfect for hopping around and discovering your new favorite spot. Here’s my list of top bars in St. Pete!
- Cruisin’ Tiki’s – A totally fun way to explore the waters! Bring your own drinks and snacks, and they provide cups, ice, a blender, and all the fun. Perfect for a group outing or just a chill day on the Gulf.
And of course while you’re here visit some of the area’s best restaurants and eclectic coffee shops! And check here for more fun things to do in downtown St. Pete.
8. Tarpon Springs
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 45 minutes
Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tarpon Springs is one of the more unique day trips from Tampa. This charming area actually has the highest percentage of Greek Americans of any city in the US— how cool is that?! It’s known for its rich Greek heritage, sponge docks, and waterfront vibes.
Some of the best things to do in Tarpon Springs:
- Grab a Greek coffee – Start your day with a cup at one of the adorable coffee shops in Tarpon Springs. The perfect way to fuel your exploring!
- Stroll the Sponge Docks + Dodecanese Blvd – Wander this charming area, check out the shops, restaurants, and boats.
- Eat authentic Greek cuisine – We loved Hellas Restaurant—the food is incredible, and the chocolate baklava martini is seriously life-changing.
- Check out local breweries + wineries – Hit up some of the best breweries in Tarpon Springs like Brighter Days Brew Co or Two Frogs Brewing for some local sips.
- Get your game on at Replay Museum – This interactive museum lets you play all the classic arcade games. Go for it—loser buys the next round of baklava martinis!
9. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of those Tampa neighborhoods that’s just so easy to spend the day in. From strolling the tree-lined streets to checking out charming boutiques and grabbing a bite at a cute cafe, there’s a little something for everyone. It’s upscale without feeling stuffy, and whether you’re stopping by Hyde Park Village for shopping or wandering the surrounding streets for coffee, brunch, or cocktails, you can easily fill a whole day exploring this gorgeous part of the city.
Some of the best things to do in Hyde Park:
- Admire the murals – Hyde Park has some seriously cool street art perfect for photos or just wandering and taking it all in.
- Eat at amazing restaurants – Some of my favorites are Forbici and spots along Swann Avenue. Great vibes, even better food.
- Walk along Bayshore Boulevard – One of my favorite ways to enjoy the waterfront, whether it’s a stroll, jog, or bike ride. Keep an eye out for marine life, it’s not uncommon to spot manatees or dolphins here.
- Go shopping at Hyde Park Village – Cute boutiques, local finds, and all the places to pick up something special. If you want something truly unique, pop into Coastal Cowgirl Collective and make your own custom hat!
Check out all the best things to do in Hyde Park!
10. Indian Rocks Beach
Distance from Tampa: 45 minutes
Indian Rocks Beach is another one of those chill, low-key spots that feels like a little hidden gem along the Gulf Coast. It’s not as crowded as some of the bigger beaches, which makes it perfect for a relaxing day of sun, sand, and saltwater vibes.
Some of the best things to do in Indian Rocks Beach:
- Relax on the beach – Indian Rocks Beach is perfect for just kicking back and soaking up the sun without the big crowds. Truly a locals’ paradise.
- Grab a coffee at Grove Surf Cafe – Yes, it’s the sister spot to Grove Surf & Coffee on St. Pete Beach! Amazing lattes and a cute spot to start your day.
- Go on A Boat Day – Hands down one of the most fun boat tours I’ve done in the Tampa Bay area! The pontoon even has a water slide, and you can go island hopping. Perfect for a sunny day on the water.
- Get a Cuban sandwich from Kooky Coconut – Seriously, one of the best Cuban sandwiches in Tampa Bay and the perfect beach day bite.
- Dine at local restaurants – Indian Rocks Beach has some incredible spots. Guppies is always a go-to for us, but there are plenty of other great bites to check out.
For more ideas, check out my full Indian Rocks Beach guide!
11. Lakeland
Distance from Tampa: 40 minutes
Lakeland might just be one of the most underrated day trips from Tampa. I feel like people are always surprised when I tell them there are actually fun things to do in Lakeland, but I promise—it’s such a cute area! With charming streets, unique shops, and plenty of spots to grab a bite or a coffee, it’s the perfect little escape from the city without having to go too far.
Some of the best things to do in Lakeland:
- Stroll around Lake Mirror Park – This is such a pretty area to walk, relax, or just enjoy the view.
- Catch a movie at the Silver Moon Drive-In – One of the coolest old-school drive-ins in Tampa Bay! It’s the perfect way to end your Lakeland day trip with a little nostalgia.
- Eat! – There are so many great restaurants in Lakeland. If you’re there for breakfast, the chicken biscuit from Good Thyme is life-changing. For lunch or dinner, check out Nineteen61 or The Joinery—both are musts.
- Bar hop – Lakeland has plenty of fun bars to check out! Rec Room is awesome if you’re into games, and Revival Bar is the spot if you want a good craft cocktail.
And don’t stop there, there’s plenty more fun things to do in Lakeland!
12. Fort De Soto
Distance from Tampa: 40 minutes
If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in the Tampa Bay area, Fort De Soto is it. This place feels like a little escape from the city—soft white sand, calm turquoise water, and plenty of room to spread out. It’s open every day from 7 AM until sunset. The entrance fee is paid as a parking fee and charged $6 per vehicle.
Some of the best things to do in Fort De Soto:
- Relax on the beach – Fort De Soto’s beach is consistently ranked among the best in the U.S., and once you visit, you’ll see why. It’s clean, quiet, and perfect for swimming or just soaking up the sun.
- Rent kayaks or paddleboards – Paddle through the mangroves and maybe even spot some dolphins or manatees along the way.
- Explore the historic fort – Wander through the old fort itself and take in some local history—it’s super cool to see in person.
- Bring your pup! – Fort De Soto has one of the best dog beaches around, so it’s a great spot if you’re looking to bring your furry friend along for the adventure.
- Bike the trails – There are a few scenic bike routes that wind along the water and through the park—perfect for exploring at your own pace.
- Take the ferry to Egmont Key or Shell Key – Fort De Soto has a ferry service that’ll take you to either island. I recommend Egmont Key—it’s amazing for shelling, swimming, and snorkeling. You can also explore Fort Dade, a large historic fort on the island, and you’ll probably spot some of the adorable native gopher tortoises that call the island home.
13. Sarasota
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 1 hour
Sarasota is one of those spots that just feels special every time I visit. It has this perfect mix of art, culture, and beachy relaxation. The downtown area feels super walkable and has tons of great restaurants, shops, and galleries, while the beaches—especially Siesta Key—are some of the prettiest in Florida. It’s a little more polished than some of the other day trips from Tampa, but still has that laid-back coastal charm that makes it such an easy place to love.
Some of the best things to do in Sarasota:
- The Ringling Museum – You can’t visit Sarasota without checking out The Ringling. The art museum, circus history exhibits, and the stunning Ca’ d’Zan mansion on the bay make it such a unique experience. The grounds alone are worth wandering for an afternoon.
- Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – If you love plants and peaceful spaces, this place is heaven. It’s filled with orchids, banyan trees, and tropical gardens with gorgeous views of Sarasota Bay. It’s one of the best botanical gardens in Tampa Bay!
- Siesta Key Beach – Known for its powdery white sand and turquoise water, Siesta Key is one of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. It’s the perfect spot to relax, grab a drink at The Siesta Key Oyster Bar, and stay for sunset.
- St. Armands Circle – A fun spot for shopping, dining, and people-watching. The circle has a mix of boutiques, cafes, and ice cream shops—definitely a must when you’re in the area.
If you can make this a weekend getaway or at least an overnight trip, I would! There is so much to do here, plus you’re close to AMI which deserves a day trip for itself, but better yet if you can explore both!
14. Anna Maria Island
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 1 hour 10 minutes
Anna Maria Island is one of those places that feels like a total escape from reality. There are no high-rises and no big hotel chains—just old Florida charm and laid-back island vibes. The streets are lined with pastel beach cottages, local shops, and cafes that make it impossible not to slow down and relax.
Some of the best things to do in AMI:
- Historic Bridge Street – Stroll this charming area filled with shops, bars, restaurants, and even a cute spot to play some mini golf!
- Bean Point – This hidden gem at the northern tip of the island is one of the most beautiful parts of the beach. It’s quiet, peaceful, and the perfect place to watch the sunset.
- Make an appointment at The Doctor’s Office – Don’t worry, it’s not what you think! This fun bar serves up some of the best craft cocktails around. The vibe is intimate and creative—definitely worth experiencing.
- Rent a bike or golf cart – It’s the best way to get around Anna Maria Island! The island’s small size and laid-back feel make it perfect for cruising between beaches, restaurants, and shops.
- Enjoy the beach – The water here is absolutely stunning—clear, calm, and that perfect shade of turquoise. It’s easily one of my favorite places to swim and unwind for the day.
Want more to fill your day at AMI? Check out the best restaurants on AMI and more of the best things to do on the island.
15. Devil’s Den
Distance of day trip from Tampa: 2 hours
Devil’s Den is definitely one of the most unique day trips from Tampa—and while it’s the longest drive on this list, I’d say it’s worth it. This prehistoric spring is actually located inside an underground cave, making it one of the most surreal snorkeling and scuba diving spots in Florida.
You’ll head down a narrow staircase that leads right into the crystal-clear water, and there’s even a natural opening at the top of the cave where light pours in, giving it an almost magical feel.
The water stays at a refreshing 72 degrees year-round, and on chilly mornings, you can even see steam rising from the opening—that’s actually how Devil’s Den got its name!
A few things to know: reservations are required, admission is $15 on weekdays and $22 on weekends, and you’ll need a mask, snorkel, and fins to enter the water. You can bring your own gear or rent it there for $12. It’s truly one of the most unforgettable natural experiences in Florida!
Which of these day trips from Tampa are you checking out first?
Whether you’re kayaking crystal-clear springs, strolling charming downtowns, or sipping a beachside cocktail as the sun sets, the perfect day trip from Tampa is waiting for you! I hope this guide helps you plan your next little getaway—let me know which of these Tampa day trips you’re adding to your list!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:
Best Things to Do in Tampa at Night
Fun Things to Do in Fort Myers
