Quick Road Trips From Tampa

Here are some of the best one‑day road trips from Tampa, all within roughly a 2‑hour drive—perfect for a fun getaway!

🏝️ 1. Caladesi Island / Honeymoon Island

• Just ~40 minutes away near Dunedin/Crystal Beach.

• Accessible by ferry or foot (to Caladesi from Clearwater). Pristine beaches and nature trails. Caladesi has repeatedly ranked among the nation’s top beaches 

• Ideal for beachcombing, kayaking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.

🐠 2. Clearwater Beach & Sand Key

• ~40 minutes from Tampa; famed for sugar-white sands and calm Gulf waters .

• Offers parasailing, dolphin cruises, pier activities, beachfront dining, and vibrant sunset views.

🌲 3. Fort De Soto Park / Egmont Key

• About 45 minutes south, on five linked islands.

• Features historic forts, extensive beach areas, picnic and biking trails, kayak routes, and a ferry to Egmont Key with lighthouse and ruins

• A top-rated park with abundant wildlife and scenic spots.

🚿 4. Weeki Wachee Springs

• A 1‑hour drive to the mermaid-show–famous spring park

• Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming in crystal-clear water, and seeing live mermaid performances.

🐋 5. Crystal River / Homosassa

• 1h 15m drive north.

• Snorkel or swim alongside manatees at the National Wildlife Refuge 

• Charming riverside town with eco-tours, kayaking, and fresh seafood.

🎭 6. St. Petersburg / Dunedin

• Just ~30 minutes away, across Tampa Bay.

• St. Pete: vibrant arts scene, waterfront dining, the Dalí Museum, and Sunken Gardens 

• Dunedin: quaint historic Main Street, breweries, Scottish heritage events, and gateway to Honeymoon/Caladesi 

🌌 7. Kennedy Space Center

• About 2 hours east on the Space Coast.

• Experience rockets, the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, IMAX theaters, the Apollo/Saturn V Center, and more 

🍃 8. Hillsborough River State Park

• Only ~20 minutes north of Tampa.

• Offers paddling trails, scenic hikes, and a chance to spot gators, turtles, and birds in a natural setting 

📍 Quick Picks Under 1 Hour:

🚗 Planning Tips

• Set off early, especially for beaches or Kennedy Space Center.

• Book ahead for springs and manatee tours—these spots fill quickly.

• Pack water, snacks, sun protection, and swimwear.

• Bring binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife along the way.

Let me know your vibe—nature, beaches, history, mermaids, or space—and I can help you plan the perfect day‑trip itinerary from Tampa!