The vibrant atmosphere of Tampa attracts many visitors yet occasionally people crave a different environment than the city offers. Tampa vacationers will find other locations to choose from, including beaches, wilderness experiences, and short island visits. The Sunshine State features numerous diversions located at reachable distances throughout its regions.
If you’re looking for the best day trips from Tampa, this guide has you covered. From charming coastal towns to thrilling theme parks, here are 10 amazing day trips in Florida from Tampa that will make your visit even more special.
Read About: Seattle Day Trips
1. St. Petersburg – The Ultimate Beach and Art Getaway
📍 Distance from Tampa: 30 minutes
🌴 Why Visit? Art, beaches, and a lively downtown
A quick day trip from Tampa to St. Pete is a great combination of relaxation and excitement. St. Petersburg, known for its fantastic beaches, cultural activities, and nightlife is an easy escape from the city.
So make a start in the Salvador Dalí Museum, where there is the biggest assembly of Dalí’s works. Take a walk through downtown before moving to the beautiful St. Pete Beach for beach activities. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Fort De Soto Park by kayak while observing local plants and animals, making it one of the most well-rounded day trips from Tampa.
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit the Salvador Dalí Museum
- Relax on St. Pete Beach
- Walk along the St. Pete Pier
2. Sarasota – White Sand Beaches and Rich Culture
📍 Distance from Tampa: 1 hour
🌴 Why Visit? Pristine beaches, art, and history
A trip to Sarasota is one of the best day trips from Tampa as it offers both places of culture and nature. Siesta Key Beach is the city’s gem, consistently among the top beaches in the U.S.
Sarasota has more than its well-known beaches. Must see is the Ringling Museum of Art, the home of famous circus mogul John Ringling. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy spotting alligators, birds, and turtles at Myakka River State Park.
Must-Do Activities:
- Relax on Siesta Key Beach
- Explore The Ringling Museum
- You should experience kayaking excursions at Myakka River State Park.
3. Crystal River – Swim with Manatees
📍 Distance from Tampa: 1.5 hours
🌴 Why Visit? Crystal-clear springs and manatee encounters
Swimming with manatees at Crystal River stands as a one-time wildlife adventure because this location holds the distinction of being the sole U.S. spot where swimming with manatees is permissible. The winter season from November through March provides the ideal time to visit when hundreds of manatees gather in Three Sisters Springs’ warm waters, making it one of the most unique day trips from Tampa for nature lovers.
Beyond manatee season Crystal River presents outstanding recreational activities including kayaking and fishing together with excellent snorkeling opportunities. The pristine spring waters shine with clear serenity which attracts nature enthusiasts who adore this place.
Must-Do Activities:
- Swimming with manatees at Three Sisters Springs
- Kayak the crystal-clear waters
- Experience Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
4. Orlando – Theme Park Capital of the World
📍 Distance from Tampa: 1.5 hours
🌴 Why Visit? World-famous theme parks and entertainment
An Orlando day trip from Tampa is pretty much a must if you’re craving thrills. Orlando is home to all three Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld; there’s something for everybody!
If you are not a fan of theme parks, you can also visit ICON Park which houses The Wheel, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel that offers a magnificent view of the city. In addition, The Mall at Millenia and Orlando International Premium Outlets are two of Florida’s best shopping malls located in Orlando.
Must-Do Activities:
- Walt Disney World or Universal Studios Visit
- Ride The Wheel at ICON Park
- Shop and eat on International Drive
5. Clearwater Beach – A Classic Florida Escape
📍 Distance from Tampa: 40 minutes
🌴 Why Visit? White sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife
One of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Tampa FL is Clearwater Beach. It is known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing day in the sun.
You can enjoy beach lounging at Clearwater Beach aside from dolphin-watching cruises along with parasailing. At the Pier 60 Sunset Celebration, you can witness live music and street performers until you watch the beauty of the sunset.
Must-Do Activities:
- Relax on Clearwater Beach
- Take a dolphin-watching tour
- Watch the sunset at Pier 60
6. Tarpon Springs – A Greek Getaway
📍 Distance from Tampa: 45 minutes
🌴 Why Visit? Greek culture, history, and amazing food
Visitors can find cultural immersion by exploring Tarpon Springs which gained fame for its sponge diving heritage and historic Greek character. The Sponge Docks waterfront area of Tarpon Springs presents visitors with authentic Greek dining facilities and bakeries alongside shops, making it one of the most fascinating day trips from Tampa for history and food lovers.
Tourists can see sponge diving operations by boat while they also explore the Tarpon Springs Aquarium and indulge in traditional Greek cuisine at the local family-run eateries.
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit the Sponge Docks
- Try authentic Greek food
- Take a boat tour
7. Fort De Soto Park – A Beach Lover’s Paradise
📍 Distance from Tampa: 45 minutes
🌴 Why Visit? Quiet beaches and outdoor adventures
Fort De Soto Park remains among the top Florida day trips from Tampa because it offers visitors a peaceful beach experience in a natural setting. The protected park comprises five interlinked islands near beautiful beaches with fortifications built during the late 1800s.
The water at this destination provides perfect conditions for both paddleboarding and kayaking because of its peaceful state while hikers and bikers can find numerous trails throughout the area.
Must-Do Activities:
- Kayak through the mangroves
- Visit the historic fort
- Enjoy a picnic by the beach
8. Weeki Wachee Springs – Mermaids and Kayaking
📍 Distance from Tampa: 1 hour
🌴 Why Visit? Live mermaid shows and crystal-clear springs
Weeki Wachee Springs is one of the most unique day trips in Florida from Tampa. This state park is known for its live mermaid shows, in which performers perform an underwater ballet in a natural spring.
Apart from the mermaids, you can kayak down the Weeki Wachee River, swim in Buccaneer Bay spring-fed, or even explore the scenic nature trails. This will be an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventurous day trips from Tampa.
Must-Do Activities:
- Watch a live mermaid show
- Kayak the Weeki Wachee River
- Swim in Buccaneer Bay
9. Anna Maria Island – A Laid-Back Beach Town
📍 Distance from Tampa: 1 hour
🌴 Why Visit? Quaint beach town with old Florida charm
If you looking for a day trip from Tampa Florida Anna Maria Island is a hidden gem. No chain restaurants are dominating the skyline of the island with high-rise buildings.
Rent a bike, explore the island, go to Bean Point Beach for the sunset, and explore the cute boutiques on Pine Avenue.
Must-Do Activities:
- Explore Pine Avenue shops
- Relax on Bean Point Beach
- Wander down to a waterside café for lunch
10. Day Trip to the Bahamas from Tampa
📍 Distance from Tampa: Short flight
🌴 Why Visit? A quick international getaway
Yes, you can take a day trip to the Bahamas from Tampa! The direct flights from Freeport or Nassau take just over an hour. You can have white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and tantalizing Bahamian cuisine all on the same day.
Must-Do Activities:
- Relax on Cable Beach
- Snorkel in Blue Hole
- Explore Nassau’s historic sites
FAQs
1. What cities are 2 hours away from Tampa, Florida?
Orlando, Naples, Gainesville, and Vero Beach are great cities close by (about two hours) away. All these are great options for day trips from Tampa.
2. What is a nice town near Tampa?
The Greek heritage of Tarpon Springs and the beautiful waterfront view of Dunedin’s quaint downtown.m
3. How many days in Tampa is enough?
It takes three to four days to see Tampa’s main attractions such as Busch Gardens, the Riverwalk, and nearby beaches, while also leaving room for exciting day trips from Tampa.
4. What other city is close to Tampa, Florida?
Both St. Petersburg and Clearwater are within a short drive and both are major cities nearby with great beaches and places to explore, making them perfect options for day trips from Tampa.
Final Thoughts
With so many incredible day trips from Tampa, there’s always a new adventure waiting just outside the city! So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and explore this stunning destination!