Discover the Natural Beauty of Fort De Soto Park
Explore the pristine beaches and rich history of Fort De Soto Park in Florida, a nature lover's paradise offering diverse ecosystems and outdoor activities.
Fort De Soto Park, nestled in Tierra Verde, Florida, is a stunning destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Spanning over 1,100 acres, this park boasts pristine beaches, lush trails, and a rich history, making it a perfect retreat for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Explore the diverse ecosystems, engage in various recreational activities, and witness breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. Whether you're picnicking, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the shore, Fort De Soto Park promises an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Fort De Soto Park
- 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, Florida, 33715, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to find the best parking spots, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Bring sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated while exploring the park.
- Consider renting a kayak or bike to explore the park's natural beauty more thoroughly.
- Check out the historic fort for a glimpse into the area's past and stunning views of the coastline.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting for photography.
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach Fort De Soto Park from downtown Tampa, start by walking to the nearest public bus stop. You can take the HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit) bus route 200, which operates from the Marion Transit Center. Board the bus and ride it towards the St. Petersburg area. You will need to transfer at the transfer station to the PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) bus route 100X, which will take you towards Tierra Verde. Stay on the bus until you reach the Fort De Soto Park stop. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the park entrance, which is about a 10-minute walk.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, you can rent a bicycle from a local shop in downtown Tampa. Head south on Bayshore Boulevard, enjoying the scenic waterfront. Continue biking until you reach the intersection with the Gandy Bridge. Cross the bridge and follow the signs for Pinellas Bayway. Once you are on Pinellas Bayway, follow the road until you reach Fort De Soto Park. The ride is approximately 15 miles and will take about an hour, depending on your speed.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more direct route, you can use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride to 'Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715' from your current location in Tampa. The driver will take you directly to the park entrance. This option is convenient and will take about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
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Walking and Public Transportation
Begin your journey by walking to the nearest HART bus stop in downtown Tampa. Take the bus route 200 towards St. Petersburg and ride for about 30 minutes. Once you reach the PSTA transfer station, switch to bus route 100X heading towards Tierra Verde. After approximately 20 minutes, get off at the Fort De Soto Park stop. The park entrance is a short walk from the bus stop. This combined method allows you to experience local transportation while enjoying the scenery.
Discover more about Fort De Soto Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Beach At Fort DeSoto Park
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Fort De Soto
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Battery Bigelow
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Egmont Key Lighthouse
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Pass A Grille Dog Beach
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Shell Key Shuttle
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Fort Dade
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McPherson Bayou
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Robinson Preserve
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Woodson African American Museum of Florida
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Atzeroth Home Site Historical Marker
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Fairgrounds St. Pete
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Treasure Island Causeway
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Thrill Hill
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Unmissable attractions to see
Historic Fort Desoto
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Shell Key Preserve
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Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge
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1st ave beach access
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Island Ferry LLC
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Sunshine Skyway Bridge
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Gulf Beaches Historical Museum
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Egmont Key State Park
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Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge
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Pass-a-Grille Beach
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17th Ave beach access
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21st Ave beach access
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Pinellas Bayway
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Passage Key National Wildlife Refuge
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Essential places to dine
Brass Monkey
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The Wharf Restaurant
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Society Table
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Castile Restaurant
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Buona Ristorante
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St. Pete Beach Crabby Bill's Seafood
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Mad Fish St Pete Beach
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Bongos Beach Bar and Grille
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Compass Grille
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Palm Court Italian
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Flying Bridge Bar & Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dody Beach Boutique
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Isla del Sol Shoppers Village
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Noah's Ark
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Dolphin Village
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Breezy's Beach Shop
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Sea Breeze Trading Co.
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Beach Zone
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Happy Puffer
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Betty
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Rum Runners Bar & Grille
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Salty's Tiki Bar and Beach Lounge
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