Tampa and St. Petersburg are two major Florida cities only separated by a small amount of water. These two cities, located right on Tampa Bay opening out into the Gulf of Mexico, are a paradise for those that love spending their days on the water. Tampa and St. Petersburg are on the central-west side of Florida and have year-round sun, great golf, and tons of culture and attractions. They are both major hubs for boaters.
With great weather all year and direct access to water, Tampa and St. Petersburg are cities that attract a ton of boat-lovers. Whether you enjoy fishing, sailing, water sports, or just spending a day on the open waters, Tampa and St. Petersburg provide the perfect environment for you. One event celebrates the love for boating that these two cities have in a melded showcase of some of the most impressive water vehicles around: the Tampa Boat Show.
The 2022 Tampa Bay Boat Show is the largest boat show on the Gulf Coast. While it has always been a significant event, this year, the Tampa Boat Show has merged with the St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show to create one major event for the books. From January 20th to the 22nd, this event will occur at the Tampa Convention Center. The event is free for children 15 and under and veterans and active-duty military. For everyone else, it is $19.
The Boat Show will be a massive event, displaying a huge number of different boats and equipment from some of the biggest names in the industry. Whether you’re searching for a brand new vessel or want to find fishing gear or watersports equipment, this event will have something for you. It is a major day for purchases, as many of the vendors at this event will be offering deals on their latest and greatest innovations.
The Tampa Boat Show is more than just a place to check out top-of-the-line watercraft. It also is a family-friendly way to spend a weekend day. Sunday at the Tampa Boat Show is Family Day, which will have family-oriented events and seminars. There is also a fishing simulator available that the young ones will love. This event isn’t just contained to the Convention Center. You can sign up for on-water boater training, which is perfect for people young and old who want to learn important skills to become better boaters.
The event is sure to be a massive hit with something for everyone. Whether you want to purchase a boat or just spend a great day with family and friends, the Tampa Boat Show is for you.
The Tampa Boat Show is intended to get Tampa and St. Petersburg all set for boating season. Let’s look at three of the best places for boating in or near Tampa.
Beer Can Island
Beer Can Island is a sandy, powdery beach in the middle of Tampa Bay at the far tip of Longshore Key. It is a classic spot for boaters to head to. Beer Can Island is a great spot to have a picnic or enjoy some beverages, and it is a common place for boaters to drop anchor and hang out. It is only accessible by boat, and the turquoise waters give it a distinct look and feel. It is a fun area for hiking, photography, or enjoying food and drink with family and friends.
Egmont Key
Egmont Key is a remote island at the mouth of Tampa Bay. It is only accessible by boat and is the perfect spot for an adventurous day. Egmont Key is famed for the great fishing and snorkeling options, and you’re likely to spot some wildlife. There is a lighthouse, hiking trails, and an incredible state park that is beloved by locals and visitors alike on the island. Egmont Key is a dream spot for outdoor activities.
Hillsborough River
Hillsborough River runs through and past Tampa, a 740 square mile stretch of water that is a dream for boaters. Taking to the Hillsborough River waters will provide you with gorgeous views of Tampa’s cityscape. It is a destination that attracts a large number of boaters, so you might encounter crowds, but the great fishing and snorkeling make it worth it. However, keep your eyes peeled on the water, as gators and snakes frequent this area.
