How to Visit Tarpon Springs, Florida

Located just north of St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, known as the Venice of the South, is a scenic spot with plenty of fun activities for you and your family. If your idea of the perfect winter getaway features lots of fun in the sun, pack your bags and head for Tarpon Springs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Sunscreen
• Bathing suits
• Casual clothing
• Good walking shoes

1. Go to the beach. If you’re into sandy stretches, surfing and a fun beach scene, you’ll find it at Sunset Beach located at the west end of Gulf Road. It's perfect for a morning stroll or run, and a favorite for picnics, swimming, and boat launching. One of the area’s most popular spots, people often go there to view the spectacular sunsets.
2. Get adventurous. Exciting activities include windsurfing and deep-sea fishing. Or savor the fresh ocean air as you bike ride, jog, skate or walk along the Pinellas Trail that winds through the town extending from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg.
3. Visit scenic Fred Howard Park, west of Florida Avenue. A mile-long causeway connects the mainland part of the 150-acre park with the beach area. You’ll find plenty of secluded spots to while away a pleasant afternoon. Tarpon Springs also offers some of the most interesting birds and natural Florida foliage.
4. Take a tour of the lovely Spring Bayou area. It’s the site of the elaborate annual Greek Epiphany celebration held in early January, where about 50 young Greek boys leap out of a semi-circle of small boats and scramble to retrieve the white cross. The shores of the Bayou are lined with thousands of people of all ages from all over the world to see who will bring the cross back to the Archbishop for a blessing and assurance of good fortune for the coming year.
5. Don't miss a chance to visit the Sponge Docks, an exotic place paved with sensual delights. Here, dozens of authentic Greek and Mediterranean Restaurants, ranging from casual to special occasion, line Dodecanese Boulevard, as do a variety of shops and bakeries. You'll see that Lake Tarpon still looks much as it did when the Duke of Southerland fell in love with its lush vegetation. He bought 30 acres and built an estate overlooking the water where he could fish, hunt and be at peace.

Tips & Warnings

• The best way to experience the city of Tarpon Springs is by foot. Most people park in the Main Street area to enjoy the historical ambience, and then drive to the Sponge Docks to take in the city’s ethnic atmosphere..