Wondering if there’s anything fun to do in Tampa? Tampa offers almost endless outdoor activities for adventurers of all ability levels—from watersports in Tampa, Florida’s many bays to quiet hiking trails and bike rides along its scenic shorelines. Whether you’re kayaking, fishing, jet skiing, or just exploring, there are practically limitless opportunities for outdoor activities in Tampa.
With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. In our guide below, we highlight the best adventurous things to do in Tampa—for water-enthusiasts and landlubbers alike. Along the way, we’ll share tips on how to keep your gear safe in between adventures.
Water Activities in Tampa
Tampa Bay’s hot, sunny climate and natural beauty make it particularly popular for water activities. With world-class beaches and accessible rentals, the area offers plenty of options for every type of adventurer.
Kayaking in Tampa
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced kayaker, Tampa offers kayaking routes to match your comfort level.
If you’re after a relaxing paddle, check out Tampa’s mangrove-lined rivers. Shielded from heavy wind and surf, they’re a great place for beginners to enjoy a safe and calm day on the water. For more experienced kayakers, the open water can provide a good workout along with a little adventure.
Without the motor noise that accompanies a power boat, kayaking in Tampa, FL, can also be a great way to see local wildlife, too.
Here are a couple of popular spots:
- Tampa Riverwalk: Tampa’s Riverwalk is a 10-mile waterfront path along the Hillsborough River. Rent a kayak downtown, or bring your own, and weave through lush greenery while keeping an eye out for herons and egrets.
- Hillsborough River State Park: Perfect for solo paddlers, this park features gentle currents and moderate rapids just a few minutes from downtown Tampa. In addition to kayaking, the park offers shaded trails winding through ancient trees and a range of hiking and camping spots.
Fishing in Tampa
The Gulf of Mexico is one of the most productive and important fisheries on the globe, so it’s no surprise Tampa has long been a world-class sport fishing destination.
Depending on whether you fish from shore or charter a boat to deeper waters, anglers here can target inshore species like snook, redfish, and sheepshead, or hook into bigger targets like tuna, grouper, and mahi mahi offshore.
- Hubbards Marina: Located near Egmont Key Ferry, Hubbards Marina offers 5-hour and 10-hour fishing excursions or take a cruise to spot the dolphins.
- Shoreline Park: With play areas for young children, reservable picnic spots, whale-watching, and family-friendly freshwater fishing, Shoreline Park is suitable for anglers of all ages.
Jet Ski in Tampa
If you’ve ever wanted the speed and thrill of riding a motorcycle but would rather take your chances falling on water rather than on solid ground, you might want to give jet skiing a try at one of these destinations.
- Water Sports Tampa: Locals appreciate this spot’s friendly staff, scenic rides, and hassle-free experience.
- Jet Ski Rentals Tampa: Reasonable rates and flexible, boundary-free rides with no restricted zones make this one of the more popular rental spots in Tampa Bay.
Boating in Tampa Bay
From sailboats to yachts, boaters will find endless opportunities in Tampa’s bays and waterways. If you don’t have your own boat, you can book an excursion that lets you explore the area’s many islands, cays, and hidden coves from a local rental company like:
- Island Marine Rentals: Reviewers cite well-maintained boats and excellent customer service at this rental company serving the Pinellas County area.
- Anchor Rides: This spot provides a variety of boat rental options, from humble pontoons to fancy yachts, giving you numerous choices for exploring Tampa’s waters.
| Thinking about buying a boat? Maintenance and boat storage in Tampa, FL, is something you’ll need to factor in, but many locals consider it a fair trade for unlimited access to the water. Get a boat storage quote to budget with confidence. |
Land-Based Outdoor Activities in Tampa
One of the perks of living in Tampa, FL, is having access to its parks, trails, and beaches, which provide ample opportunities for land-based adventures. Here are a few highlights worth exploring.
Hiking Trails in Tampa
One of the charms of Tampa’s hiking trails is the mix of historic sites with the quiet greenery of forested paths and riverside routes. Be sure to check out:
- Florida Trail: Part of a 1,400-mile network stretching across Florida, the Florida Trail winds through Tampa’s neighborhoods and wild spaces. The trail is well-marked, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels.
- Alafia River State Park: Nestled along the Alafia River, this park features miles of hiking trails that weave through dense hardwood hammocks and open wetlands. Follow the boardwalk to observe herons, egrets, and turtles, or extend your adventure by paddling the river.
Tampa Bike Trails
All around Tampa, there’s growing infrastructure for the two-wheel enthusiasts among us, making biking in Tampa one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the city.
- Tampa Riverwalk: This waterfront trail combines urban charm with natural beauty, featuring historic landmarks and a panoramic view of Tampa Bay.
- Morris Bridge Bike Trail: A key link in Tampa’s bike network, this trail connects neighborhoods and green spaces with ease, making it a reliable choice for commuting or exploring the city’s hidden gems.
Mountain Biking and Dirt Biking in Tampa
While Tampa isn’t especially rugged, the surrounding region offers some of Florida’s best dirt biking terrain. From technical trails to wide-open spaces, riders of all skill levels can find adventures close to home. Don’t miss:
- Croom Motorcycle Park: Across its thousands of acres, this iconic dirt biking park offers miles of trails through hardwood hammocks, dense scrub, and abandoned mining pits. Thrill-seekers can tackle challenging hills, sand pits, and even a secret dirt track, while beginners enjoy smoother loops.
- Flatwoods Conservation Park: Nestled within a protected natural area, this mountain biking park features a 7-mile paved loop plus off-road trails winding through pine forests and palmetto thickets.
Beachcombing in Tampa
Florida is famous for its beaches, and Tampa offers many opportunities to leisurely search for seashells, driftwood, or even buried treasure at spots like:
- Caladesi Island State Park: Caladesi Island boasts powdery white sands and turquoise waters, with rare finds like lightning whelks and horse conchs.
- Honeymoon Island State Park: Only a short drive from Tampa, this island offers miles of unspoiled shoreline. Look for sand dollars and vibrant shells like fighting conchs.
| Moving to Tampa? Check out these other helpful guides: Moving to TampaThe Best Neighborhoods in TampaBoat Storage in Tampa, FLUnique Things to Do in Tampa, Florida for Every Budget |
Tips for Storing Your Outdoor Gear
Making the most of outdoor activities in Tampa requires keeping your gear in top shape. Follow these tips to ensure your items stay protected while housed in storage units in Tampa:
- Clean and dry before storing: The beaches and the ocean can be highly corrosive, so remove salt, sand, and moisture before putting your equipment away in storage units in Tampa, FL.
- Use protective covers: Shield equipment from dust and UV damage by storing it in the protective covers you received when you purchased it. If you’ve misplaced these covers, consider buying new ones.
- Disassemble when possible: Break down bikes or boats to save space and reduce stress on parts. This will also help you make the most of your storage unit space.
- Store your boat: Boat storage involves many unique challenges over and above the requirements of storing a surfboard or metal detector. Some owners choose a marina with a solid reputation, while others opt for dry storage or a self-storage facility designed for larger vehicles. Whatever option you choose, make sure it’s secure and reliable before trusting it with your investment.
- Elevate off the ground: Prevent warping and moisture exposure by putting heavier equipment up on shelves or pallets. Most storage units in Tampa will have shelves, and even if they don’t, you can likely use a pallet instead.
- Choose climate-controlled storage: Tampa’s heat and humidity may degrade gear, so be sure to find climate-controlled storage units in Tampa, FL, these units have a reasonably maintained temperature range.*
Make space for your outdoor activities in Tampa
Adventuring in Tampa often means collecting a lot of gear, which can easily take over your home. Store your kayak, bike, fishing rods, or more in a CubeSmart self-storage unit in Tampa, FL. Our facilities feature secure, climate-controlled spaces to keep your items safe. Find a CubeSmart storage facility near you.
*Storage unit sizes are approximate and subject to availability. Temperature and humidity levels within any storage space including climate-controlled spaces may vary.
