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Cypress Point Park: Tampa's Tranquil Waterfront Escape

Discover Cypress Point Park in Tampa: a waterfront haven with a beach, trails, disc golf, and stunning sunsets, perfect for recreation and relaxation near the airport.

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Cypress Point Park, nestled on a peninsula jutting into Old Tampa Bay, offers a serene escape from the city's hustle. Once an industrial site and before that home to the Tocobaga people, this 35-acre park has been transformed into a haven for recreation and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a white sand beach with stunning sunset views, walking trails through diverse ecosystems, and various activities like fishing, kayaking, and disc golf. With amenities like picnic areas, a playground, and a volleyball court, Cypress Point Park provides something for everyone seeking a tranquil waterfront experience. Its location near Tampa International Airport also makes it a convenient spot for a quick nature break. The park's commitment to accessibility ensures that all visitors can appreciate its natural beauty and recreational offerings. Cypress Point Park is a testament to Tampa's dedication to preserving green spaces and providing accessible recreational opportunities for residents and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Cypress Point Park

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of Tampa Bay; the park is known for its stunning sunsets.
  • Bring your own equipment for disc golf, kayaking, or volleyball to fully enjoy the park's recreational facilities.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's shelters, complete with tables and grills.
  • Check the park's website for special events and guided tours, especially birdwatching excursions.
  • Be aware that the beach size can vary depending on the tide, so plan accordingly.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Tampa, take the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) Line 30 bus towards the Westshore area. The bus runs hourly. Get off at the Cypress St @ O'Brien St stop, which is a short walk (approximately 8 minutes) to the park entrance. A single ride fare is $2.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Tampa International Airport (TPA), a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Cypress Point Park is a quick and convenient option, typically costing between $19 and $23. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Simply follow the signs at the airport to the designated pick-up areas.

  • Driving

    If driving from the Westshore area, follow W Cypress St directly to the park. From downtown Tampa, take I-275 N to Dale Mabry Hwy N, then follow Dale Mabry Hwy N to W Cypress St. Ample free parking is available at the park's on-site parking lot, located at 5620 W Cypress St. The parking lot is very active, especially during lunch breaks and evenings.

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Discover more about Cypress Point Park

Cypress Point Park, a 35-acre waterfront oasis in Tampa, Florida, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical significance. Situated on a peninsula extending into Old Tampa Bay, the park provides stunning views, tranquil surroundings, and a welcome escape from the urban environment. Its transformation from an industrial site to a beloved public space reflects Tampa's commitment to conservation and community enrichment. The park's history stretches back centuries, predating European arrival when the indigenous Tocobaga people thrived in the Tampa Bay region. Skilled fishermen and hunters, they relied on the bay's abundant resources and utilized the cypress trees for canoes and shelter. The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century marked a significant turning point, though evidence of their direct impact on the park's specific location remains limited. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tampa experienced rapid industrial growth, spurred by the establishment of the Port of Tampa in 1885. The area that is now Cypress Point Park served various industrial purposes, including a terminal for the Tampa & Gulf Coast Railroad, which transported phosphate from Central Florida to the port for shipment. This industrial past shaped the landscape, leaving a legacy that the city later sought to transform. By the mid-20th century, as Tampa grew, the need for recreational spaces became increasingly apparent. The city acquired the land and embarked on a dedicated effort to convert the former industrial site into a public park. This transformation aimed to preserve the area's natural beauty while providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The park's design incorporated elements that celebrated its waterfront location, creating a space where people could connect with nature and enjoy the bay. Today, Cypress Point Park stands as a testament to this commitment. The park boasts a beautiful white sand beach, offering breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and occasional flyovers from planes landing at Tampa International Airport. This beach is a popular spot for catching stunning Florida sunsets, providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and recreation. Beyond the beach, Cypress Point Park features a network of trails that wind through diverse ecosystems. These trails include a.90-mile asphalt trail and.44 miles of nature trails, allowing visitors to explore the park's varied landscapes. The trails meander through sabal palm hammocks, mixed hardwood forests, and other restoration areas, providing opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the natural environment. For those seeking more active pursuits, Cypress Point Park offers a range of recreational facilities. A disc golf course, ranked among the top free courses in Florida by the Professional Disc Golf Association, challenges even the most enthusiastic players. The course features concrete tees, mixed foliage, and a challenging layout. A sand volleyball court provides a space for friendly competition, while a playground offers a safe and engaging environment for children. Cypress Point Park also provides amenities to enhance the visitor experience. Spacious shelters are available for outdoor events, equipped with picnic tables, grills, and trash receptacles. Restrooms and outdoor showers provide convenience for beachgoers and park users. A canoe launch allows for leisurely paddling forays out on Old Tampa Bay, providing a unique perspective of the park and its surroundings. The park's location along a critical migratory bird flyway makes it a prime spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot species like pelicans, ospreys, and herons. The park also serves as an outdoor classroom for learning about the local environment, with guided tours and educational programs available throughout the year. Cypress Point Park is designed to be accessible to all visitors. The park features wheelchair-accessible restrooms, paved trails, and accessible picnic areas, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in and enjoy the park's activities and scenic views. Ample parking is available on-site, making it convenient for visitors to access the park's facilities. The park is also accessible by public transportation, with a bus stop located nearby. Cypress Point Park is more than just a park; it's a community gathering place, a natural sanctuary, and a reminder of Tampa's commitment to preserving its environment. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape, a recreational adventure, or a place to connect with nature, Cypress Point Park offers something for everyone. Its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and range of amenities make it a must-visit destination in Tampa.

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