One of the absolute best reasons to visit Tampa is the abundance of exciting activities that await you in and around the crystal blue and emerald waters along the coast.
Not only can you embark on adventurous boat tours, but you can partake in sports like jet skiing, parasailing, paddle boarding, and so much more! Check out some of these awesome activities as you visit this tropical paradise in Florida!
A tour we think you'll love
Activities Abound Along The Hillsborough River Near Downtown Tampa
Whether you’re searching for quiet solace away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Tampa or love to be in the midst of all the action, there’s always something to do in and along the Hillsborough River.
This river flows 60 miles through Pasco and Hillsborough counties before opening up at Hillsborough Bay in Tampa FL. Those who enjoy peace and quiet can travel just minutes from Downtown Tampa to enjoy wildlife viewing and embark on an aquatic journey with kayaks or canoes from one of the three boat launches along the river.
If you want to enjoy some time on the water, you’ll have to bring your own canoe or kayak. Keep in mind, you will encounter class II rapids along your journey down the river!
You can also fish the Hillsborough River! Some of the fish you can expect to catch are:
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Bass
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Bream
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Catfish
Head back into Downtown Tampa FL to enjoy the Tampa Riverwalk! This 2.6-mile open space and pedestrian trail connect a wide variety of parks, attractions, hotels, dining, and more, including easy access to the Tampa Convention Center.
This attraction is free to enjoy all year long and is a magnificent way to experience Downtown Tampa and all the Hillsborough River has to offer. With access to several hotels, restaurants, and shopping, the Tampa Riverwalk is a great way to move about the city.
Hop Aboard The Pirate Water Taxi
Aside from it being one of the most convenient ways to navigate Downtown Tampa, the Pirate Water Taxi is one of the best Tampa water activities for tourists and locals alike.
The home dock for the Pirate Water Taxi is at the Tampa Convention Center in the heart of Downtown, but you can always hop on and purchase your wristband at any of the multiple stops throughout the city.
Once you have your wristband, you can hop on and off the taxi as you please. There are no limitations to how many times you can on and off-board the taxi, and your wristband is good for the entire day!
Not only can you travel the city with ease on the Pirate Water Taxi, but your wristband gives you access to several discount opportunities for restaurants and attractions throughout Tampa.
Here is a list of just some of the discounts you can look forward to when you have a taxi wristband:
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$4 off regular admission to The Florida Aquarium
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Mention your wristband for a free boarding photo on the Yacht Star Ship ($20 value)
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10% off your check at the Hampton Chocolate Factory
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$2 off up to 2 regular price adult admissions to the Tampa Bay History Center
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10% off any rental at Tampa Riverwalk Rentals
And so much more, including discounts for various water sports rentals!
A More Exciting Way To Explore The Tampa Area
Some of the favorite water activities in the area offer new and exciting ways to explore the Tampa area. Tampa FL has a multitude of waterways with an abundance of rental opportunities.
A favorite for locals and vacationers is Tampa Bay SUP rentals. SUP, or stand-up paddle boards, are a family-fun way to glide on the water around Tampa Bay.
Not only is this great exercise and exciting for all ages, but you’ll get up close and personal with sea turtles and other marine life that call Tampa FL home, depending on the location of your paddle boarding tour.
Peaceful Water Activities In Tampa Bay
Fishing is always a peaceful way to enjoy Tampa Bay, especially in locations like Egmont Key! Egmont Key is a secluded state park at the mouth of Tampa Bay and offers some of the best places to fish in the area.
You’re likely to catch marine life like:
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Sea Trout
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Tarpon
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Snook
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Grouper
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Flounder
You won’t have to worry about calming a peaceful spot on the beach at this state park as fishermen have designated areas to enjoy a day of saltwater fishing.
Enjoy A Day Filled With Water Activities
If you’re searching for a location in Tampa Bay Area where you can find all the best water activities, then Clearwater Beach should be your destination of choice!
Clearwater Beach offers an abundance of water sports! You can paddle board, jet ski, hop on some water bikes with friends, or have a boat day watching dolphins at one of many touring companies.
No matter what your favorite Tampa water activities are, you’re sure to find them at this white sand beach.
Local Favorite Tampa Water Activities
At Madeira Beach, Gators Parasail will take you on the boat ride of your life to parasail 400 feet above the crystal blue waters of Tampa Bay! As you glide out above the waters, you might encounter marine life, like playful dolphins and even stunning sea turtles.
Bring up to two friends along for a three-man ride above the water. You can even choose whether or not you want to get wet on your excursion!
Call ahead and schedule your boat ride and parasailing adventure with Gators Parasail before heading off on your Tampa vacation!