Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve: A Coastal Sanctuary
Discover Florida's natural beauty at Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, a coastal sanctuary offering kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing in a pristine Tampa Bay setting.
Escape the urban sprawl and discover the serene beauty of Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, a 24,900-acre coastal haven in northwestern Manatee County. This protected area encompasses a significant portion of southeastern Tampa Bay's shoreline, offering a glimpse into Florida's natural heritage. Explore diverse ecosystems, including seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, and tidal flats, teeming with wildlife. Whether you're kayaking through winding waterways, hiking scenic trails, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, Terra Ceia provides a refreshing escape and a chance to connect with nature. The preserve's location between Bradenton, St. Petersburg, and Tampa makes it easily accessible for a day trip, offering a unique opportunity to experience Tampa Bay's natural state amidst a densely populated region. Keep an eye out for wading birds, dolphins, and a variety of fish species that call this preserve home.
A brief summary to Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve
- Terra Ceia, Florida, 34250, US
- +1239-530-1011
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Bring bug spray, especially during the warmer months, as mosquitoes and other insects can be abundant.
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as trails can be uneven and may have wet or muddy sections.
- Check the tide charts before kayaking or boating, as access to some areas may be limited during low tide.
- Bring your own kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, as there are currently no rental services within the preserve.
- Pack water and snacks, as there are no facilities available within the park.
Getting There
-
Driving
From I-275, take exit 5 onto Terra Ceia Road. Continue east until you reach Hightower Road and turn left. Follow Hightower Road to the dirt parking area at the end, which marks the trailhead for the hiking trails. Note that there is no formal entrance sign, but a small brown 'Real Florida' state park sign indicates the correct location. Parking is free. Be aware that the road leading to the preserve is unpaved in sections.
-
Paddling
For access to the water, head to the Bishop Harbor Boat Launch on Bishop Harbor Road. This launch is best suited for kayaks and smaller vessels, especially at mid to high tide. Parking is available at the launch site. There are no fees associated with using the boat launch. From US 19, turn onto Terra Ceia Road, then turn onto Bishop Harbor Road. The boat launch will be on your left.
Discover more about Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Atzeroth Home Site Historical Marker
3.4 km
Discover the Atzeroth Home Site Historical Marker and delve into Florida's coffee history at this peaceful landmark in Terra Ceia.
Terra Ceia Preserve State Park
5.8 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Terra Ceia Preserve State Park, a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers in Florida.
Old Memphis Cemetery Historical Marker
6.8 km
Uncover the rich history of Palmetto, Florida, at the Old Memphis Cemetery Historical Marker, a serene place of reflection and remembrance.
Gamble Mansion Sugar Mill
10.1 km
Explore the rich history of sugar production at the Gamble Mansion Sugar Mill, a captivating historical landmark in Palmetto, Florida.
Braden Castle Historical Site
12.0 km
Explore the Braden Castle Historical Site in Bradenton, FL, a captivating landmark rich in history and architectural beauty.
Fort De Soto
12.6 km
Explore the stunning beaches, rich history, and diverse wildlife of Fort De Soto, a must-visit natural gem in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Battery Bigelow
12.7 km
Discover Battery Bigelow, a historical gem in St. Petersburg, Florida, where military history meets breathtaking coastal scenery in Fort De Soto Park.
North Beach At Fort DeSoto Park
14.0 km
Discover the unspoiled beauty of North Beach at Fort DeSoto Park in St. Petersburg, a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and nature.
Fort Dade
14.4 km
Explore the historic Fort Dade on Egmont Key, a stunning blend of military history and natural beauty, perfect for a tranquil getaway.
Egmont Key Lighthouse
14.5 km
Explore the historic Egmont Key Lighthouse, a serene escape that showcases Florida's maritime heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
Indian Burial Mounds
14.8 km
Explore the historical significance and serene beauty of Indian Burial Mounds, a peaceful memorial park in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Pass A Grille Dog Beach
16.8 km
Discover the joy of sun and surf at Pass A Grille Dog Beach, Florida's premier pet-friendly beach for you and your furry friend.
Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve
17.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve; a serene coastal gem perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Shell Key Shuttle
17.2 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Shell Key with Shell Key Shuttle, your gateway to an unforgettable adventure in St Pete Beach, Florida.
McPherson Bayou
19.1 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of McPherson Bayou in St. Pete Beach, a perfect escape for relaxation and adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site
2.5 km
Explore the Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site, a serene state park in Terra Ceia, Florida, rich in history and natural beauty.
Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
4.7 km
Experience the beauty of Florida's coastline at Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, the world's longest fishing pier with stunning bay views and great recreational activities.
Emerson Point Preserve
4.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Emerson Point Preserve in Palmetto, Florida, where diverse ecosystems meet rich history and breathtaking views.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
6.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and engineering marvel of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, a must-visit tourist attraction in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Palma Sola Botanical Park
8.2 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Palma Sola Botanical Park, a stunning botanical garden in Bradenton, Florida, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Robinson Preserve
8.3 km
Experience the natural wonders of Robinson Preserve in Bradenton, Florida, where lush landscapes and diverse wildlife await to be explored.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
9.7 km
Discover the wonders of science and nature at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton, Florida - an adventure for all ages.
Gamble Plantation Historic State Park
10.6 km
Explore the rich history and natural beauty of Gamble Plantation Historic State Park, a must-visit destination in Ellenton, Florida.
Manatee Village Historical Park
11.2 km
Explore the rich history of Manatee County at Manatee Village Historical Park, an engaging museum showcasing the area's fascinating heritage.
Neal Preserve
11.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Neal Preserve, a nature lover's paradise in Bradenton, Florida, offering scenic trails and diverse wildlife.
Fort De Soto Park
12.0 km
Explore Fort De Soto Park: A stunning Florida destination for outdoor adventure, wildlife, and historical exploration.
Anna Maria Island
12.6 km
Experience the tranquil charm and stunning beaches of Anna Maria Island in Florida, a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.
Historic Fort Desoto
12.6 km
Discover pristine beaches, explore a historic fort, and immerse yourself in nature at Fort De Soto Park, a captivating destination on Florida's Gulf Coast offering recreation and relaxation.
Passage Key National Wildlife Refuge
12.7 km
Explore the pristine beauty and rich wildlife of Passage Key National Wildlife Refuge, a serene escape in Anna Maria, Florida.
Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge
14.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich biodiversity of Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge, a serene escape for nature lovers near St. Petersburg, Florida.
Essential places to dine
Brass Monkey
17.3 km
Discover Brass Monkey: A vibrant seafood haven on Pass-a-Grille Beach offering fresh flavors and stunning waterfront views.
Hurricane Seafood Restaurant
17.3 km
Savor fresh seafood and stunning Gulf views at Hurricane Seafood Restaurant in Pass-a-Grille Beach.
The Wharf Restaurant
17.8 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at The Wharf Restaurant in St. Pete Beach – where fresh seafood meets stunning waterfront views.
Red, White & Booze
17.9 km
Experience vibrant beachside dining at Red, White & Booze with fresh seafood and refreshing drinks in Pass-a-Grille Beach.
Maritana
19.0 km
Experience exquisite seafood and fine dining at Maritana in St. Pete Beach - where every meal is a celebration of coastal flavors.
Society Table
19.0 km
Experience delightful American cuisine with Caribbean flair at Society Table in St. Pete Beach - a must-visit dining destination.
Castile Restaurant
19.4 km
Discover culinary excellence at Castile Restaurant in St. Pete Beach – where New American flavors meet breathtaking Gulf views.
The Big Catch at Salt Creek
20.0 km
Experience fresh seafood and stunning waterfront views at The Big Catch at Salt Creek in St. Petersburg.
Buona Ristorante
20.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Buona Ristorante in St. Pete Beach - where every meal is crafted with passion and tradition.
St. Pete Beach Crabby Bill's Seafood
20.7 km
Discover fresh seafood and stunning views at Crabby Bill's Seafood in St. Pete Beach - where every bite feels like a beach vacation.
Mad Fish St Pete Beach
20.7 km
Discover Mad Fish St Pete Beach, where fresh seafood meets stunning Gulf views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bongos Beach Bar and Grille
20.8 km
Experience coastal dining at Bongos Beach Bar and Grille in St. Pete Beach - delicious food, refreshing drinks & breathtaking Gulf views await you.
Spinners Rooftop Grille
20.8 km
Discover unparalleled seafood and steak dishes at Spinners Rooftop Grille with breathtaking Gulf views in St. Pete Beach.
Compass Grille
20.9 km
Discover exceptional American cuisine at Compass Grille on St. Pete Beach—your go-to spot for fresh seafood and delightful breakfasts.
The Library - inspired by the George Peabody Library
21.0 km
Discover The Library in St. Petersburg - where culinary excellence meets literary charm in a unique dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dody Beach Boutique
17.2 km
Explore Dody Beach Boutique in Pass-a-Grille, St. Petersburg for stylish beachwear, unique dresses, and stunning jewelry that captures coastal elegance.
Isla del Sol Shoppers Village
18.1 km
Discover a shopping oasis at Isla del Sol Shoppers Village, where retail therapy meets culinary delights in the heart of St. Petersburg.
Vintage Marché
19.4 km
Explore Vintage Marché: A Vintage Home Goods and Clothing Store in St. Petersburg, Florida with Unique Finds Awaiting Discovery.
Noah's Ark
19.8 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Noah's Ark, a unique consignment shop in St. Pete Beach that offers vintage finds and local charm.
Gulfport Beach Bazaar
20.2 km
Explore Gulfport Beach Bazaar: A vibrant shopping haven for unique gifts, beachwear, and local treasures in the heart of Gulfport, Florida.
As Above So Below
20.2 km
Explore the spiritual and mystical at As Above So Below, a unique metaphysical supply store in St. Pete Beach, Florida, offering crystals, jewelry, and more.
Dolphin Village
20.3 km
Explore Dolphin Village, a vibrant shopping mall in St. Pete Beach, Florida, offering diverse stores and delicious dining options near the ocean.
Breezy's Beach Shop
20.6 km
Explore Breezy's Beach Shop for unique gifts, stylish beachwear, and unforgettable souvenirs in the heart of St. Pete Beach.
Freaky Tiki Surf shack
20.8 km
Discover unique beachwear and accessories at Freaky Tiki Surf Shack, a vibrant clothing store in St. Pete Beach, Florida.
Beach Mart
20.8 km
Discover Beach Mart in St Pete Beach for all your swimwear, sunglasses, and souvenir needs - your perfect beach shopping destination.
Sea Breeze Trading Co.
21.0 km
Explore the colorful and diverse offerings of Sea Breeze Trading Co., the quintessential gift shop in St Pete Beach perfect for all your souvenir needs.
Beach Zone
21.2 km
Discover Beach Zone in St. Pete Beach, FL for stylish swimwear and beach essentials that capture the essence of fun in the sun.
Sun N Sand
21.7 km
Explore Sun N Sand, your ultimate beach entertainment shop in St. Pete Beach, offering everything from surfboards to beach toys for a perfect day at the shore.
Happy Puffer
21.8 km
Explore Happy Puffer in St. Pete Beach - your one-stop shop for premium tobacco, hookah, and vaporizer products in a welcoming atmosphere.
Adventures In Paradise Outfitters
21.8 km
Discover unique treasures at Adventures In Paradise Outfitters, your premier gift shop in St. Petersburg's Waterfront Arts District.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shadrack's
17.2 km
Discover Shadrack's, a vibrant bar and night club in Pass-a-Grille Beach, perfect for cocktails, live music, and a lively atmosphere.
Rowe Bar
19.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Rowe Bar at St Pete Beach, where stunning ocean views meet refreshing drinks and lively entertainment.
360 Rooftop
19.4 km
Experience stunning sunsets and crafted cocktails at 360 Rooftop Lounge in St. Pete Beach, the perfect spot for relaxation and vibrant nightlife.
Undertow Beach Bar
19.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Undertow Beach Bar, where refreshing cocktails and stunning Gulf views create the perfect beachside escape.
Sandbar Bill's Bar and Grille
20.0 km
Experience beachside bliss at Sandbar Bill's Bar and Grille in St. Pete Beach, a haven for food, drinks, and stunning Gulf views.
The Drunken Clam
20.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering American cuisine at The Drunken Clam in St. Pete Beach, where great food meets live entertainment.
Chris' Beachside Bar
20.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings of Chris' Beachside Bar, your perfect spot for relaxation and fun at St. Pete Beach.
Level 11 Rooftop Bar & Lounge
20.8 km
Discover the stunning Level 11 Rooftop Bar & Lounge in St. Pete Beach, offering breathtaking views, delicious tapas, and crafted cocktails for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Rum Runners Bar & Grille
20.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Rum Runners Bar & Grille, a tropical getaway in St. Pete Beach, Florida.
Harry's Beach Bar
21.0 km
Discover Harry's Beach Bar, where live music, delicious American cuisine, and stunning beach views create an unforgettable tropical experience.
Salty's Tiki Bar and Beach Lounge
21.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Salty's Tiki Bar and Beach Lounge, where tropical drinks and stunning beach views await you in St. Pete Beach.
The Cabana Bar
21.5 km
Experience the ultimate beachside relaxation at The Cabana Bar, where tropical cocktails and stunning Gulf views await you in St. Pete Beach.
The SandBox Beach Lounge
21.6 km
Experience the tropical charm of The SandBox Beach Lounge, where refreshing cocktails and stunning Gulf views create the perfect beach getaway.
Sandbar Beach Bar
21.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Sandbar Beach Bar, a perfect getaway for beach lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Jimmy B's Beach Bar
21.7 km
Experience the ultimate beachside relaxation at Jimmy B's Beach Bar, where live music and delicious food meet stunning Gulf views.
