6 Boardwalks & Piers Near Tampa That Are Better Than The Jersey Shore
Ahh, The Sunshine State. As its namesake implies, it's generally a paradise of sunshine and beaches that make you feel like you've been whisked away to the isles of the Caribbean. There's so much to explore here, and Florida's piers and boardwalks give you a glimpse into some of the best things the state has to offer.
From bustling beach-side expanses to more urbanized digs, the locations on this list will give you a little taste of The Salt Life.
One of the best parts? Many of them are either free to visit or have a super cheap admission fee. You won't be breaking the bank checking these out.
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Enjoy a bite and drink with sweeping sea views, ride your bike or scooters along the water's edge, and even wander winding boardwalks through lush green paradises.
Regardless of what you decide to do on these piers and boardwalks, it's probably better than cozying up with the rowdy crowds of The Jersey Shore.
Pier 60
Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL
Why You Need To Go: Close to all the amenities in Clearwater but with that beachy escape feel, Pier 60 offers a smorgasbord of fun on the water. Dip your toes in the sand, cast a line off the fishing pier, or go during the Sugar Sand Festival for a unique art experience. They're still doing movies under the stars this summer too.
Weedon Island Preserve
Address: 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL
Why You Need To Go: This spot has a nearly 2-mile boardwalk trail that takes you through the mangroves. An observation tower at the end will give you sweeping sky-high views of the bay. You can also kayak through miles of stunning mangrove tunnels here for a uniquely magical experience.
Eureka Springs Park
Address: 6400 Eureka Springs Rd, Tampa, FL
Why You Need To Go: This park's winding boardwalk will lead you through a jungle-like oasis of lush Florida greenery and sweeping Spanish moss-covered oaks. It's a great place to go when you're looking to escape the crowds.
Rod & Reel Pier
Address: 875 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL
Why You Need To Go: Located on the stunning Anna Maria Island, this restaurant at the end of a fishing pier will serve you up some succulent seafood dishes with a view from the ocean. You can also cast a line off the dock. After you've had a bite to eat, you can explore all the other awesome experiences the island has to offer.
Tampa Riverwalk
Address: Tampa Riverwalk, Tampa, FL
Why You Need To Go: Situated along the Hillsborough River, you'll have stunning water and city views from this spot, especially at sunset. They're also known to light up their walkways for a truly ethereal experience after the sun goes down. Bonus, you're near all the cool things to do in the city too.
St. Pete Pier
Address: 600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL
Why You Need To Go: From rooftop restaurants and bars to water views, electric art installments that glow at night, and everything in-between, this pier is a 26-acre mecca packed full of things to do.
Happy pier-hopping!
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment and obey any local laws.