Florida’s Tampa Bay is a stretch of water on Florida’s west coast, leading into the Gulf of Mexico. This area is one of Florida’s most important and historic, home to major cities like Tampa. If you are someone that loves the water, the Tampa Bay area is as good as it gets, with incredible waterfront towns, cities, and communities. The dining and nightlife are top-notch, the weather is warm and sunny, and it is a destination for boaters. There are numerous great places to live near the waters surrounding Tampa Bay. Let’s look at some of the most desirable waterfront communities in the area.
Let’s start with Holmes Beach, Anna Maria, and Bonita Springs. Holmes Beach is a small city on Anna Maria Island, famed for its beaches, resorts, and spas. It has a top-notch boutique shopping scene, and the stunning turquoise waters make for a dream destination for vacationers or property buyers. Anna Maria is another small city on Anna Maria Island. It is quieter than many areas with top-notch beaches in the state and has some of the most unforgettable sunsets on the planet.
Bonita Springs is a city south of the Tampa area known for its beautiful Gulf Coast views. Several different parks and keys here attract boaters and swimmers, and you can keep your eyes peeled for manatees and dolphins.
Fort Myers Beach, Marco Island, and St. Petersburg are three other cities that make for incredible waterfront locations. Fort Myers Beach is another town on the Gulf, located on Estero Island. It is a small, walkable community with picturesque beaches, great museums, and some top-notch shopping and restaurants.
Marco Island is a small island near Naples with world-class beaches and golfing. It is a destination for resorts and hotels and has some of the country’s best waterfront luxury real estate. It draws an affluent crowd. St. Petersburg is a big city just across the water from Tampa on the bay. Known as Sunshine City, this is one of the many great cities in Florida, famed for its museums, beaches, and sparkling waters. It is filled with nature reserves and gorgeous Gulf views.
Dunedin, Clearwater, and Tarpon Springs are perfectly situated to be beloved waterfront communities. Dunedin is a city north of St. Petersburg situated on the water. With famous natural areas like Honeymoon Island State Park, top-notch hiking trails, and some of the best kayaking in the state, Dunedin is a dream come true for lovers of ocean scenery.
Clearwater is situated just south of Dunedin, known for picture-perfect weather and white sand beaches. It has an ideal Gulf Coast location that makes it uniquely desirable and is a great place for boating, surfing, or snorkeling. Tarpon Springs is a city north of Dunedin in the Tampa area. It has a smaller population but is often filled with visitors seeking to enjoy the great food, local culture, and beautiful but quiet white sand beaches.
Lastly, three more exceptional Gulf Coast areas include Gulfport, Hudson, and Holiday. Gulfport is a small city near St. Petersburg. It is considered one of the best places to live in Florida due to its quieter feel but easy proximity to two significant Florida cities. With a great art scene, friendly locals, and great waterfront views, this city is a can’t miss in the Tampa area.
Hudson is a small census-designated place north of Tampa and St. Petersburg. It is known for being a quieter alternative to some of the busier cities in the area. Hudson Beach is a lovely and scenic beach park perfect for picnics and enjoying sunsets. Near Tarpon Springs, you can find Holiday, considered a suburb of Tampa-St. Petersburg. Holiday is a thriving community home to over 22,000 residents. It is a top choice for those seeking affordable housing in this busy area, and Anclote River Park is a beautiful beach with a pier and incredible native wildlife.
Florida’s west coast and the Tampa area are home to some of the most desirable areas in the country. If you love water and beaches, this is the ideal place for you.
