Tarpon Springs is one of many unique Florida trips and makes a fantastic WEEKEND destination from Tampa!
About 30 miles north of Tampa, setting on the Gulf of Mexico, is the historic town of Tarpon Springs. Bursting with character, culture, and treasure, this big “small town” has the potential for hours of exploration and adventure, making for unforgettable, unique Florida trips.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you purchase using an affiliate link, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. The links I post are suggestions, please be sure to research the products yourself.
Fast Fact: Tarpon Springs is known as the “Sponge Capital of the World”
Dating back to the early 1900s, the art of sponge diving is a must-see in this historic town, a credit to the natural sponge beds found off the Tarpon Springs shoreline. On the historic Sponge Docks, you can take boat tours to watch the harvesting of sponges as they have been harvested since Greek sponge divers settled here after the discovery of the beds. These sponges are prized for their natural beauty and functionality and are widely available at the many stores lining the docks and surrounding town.
A treat equal to the prized sponges is the experience of being immersed in the wonderfully vibrant Greek culture that the town of Tarpon Springs exudes. You really should make this a stop on your list of unique Florida trips, you won’t be disappointed!
FIVE Things to Do in Tarpon Springs That Are Worth Your Time!
1
Sponge Docks, Sponge Docks, Sponge Docks. Not only would it be nearly impossible to avoid the Sponge Docks when visiting Tarpon Springs, but they are a unique attraction that shouldn’t be missed. It’s hard to convey the potent flavor of the Greek culture poured over the docks and the town, it’s a flavor that needs to be experienced and savored. Catch a boat tour, a helicopter tour, or a kayak adventure; whatever your preference, you’ll probably find it on the docks! Click here for a good resource on what’s available on the docks.
2
Shop ’till you drop. Oh yes, please don’t forget to check out the variety of natural sponges and other gifts that can be found throughout the many gift shops that line the streets of Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks. And be sure to venture off the docks and into the historic Downtown Tarpon Springs. There you are going to find a myriad of boutiques, restaurants, taverns, and breweries; there’s definitely something there for you! You’ll find this resource helpful in planning your stops.
3
Then eat, drink, and be merry! Two of my favorite places for great food and local beers are sitting right next to each other on East Tarpon Avenue, H’ours Creole Smokehouse and Unrefined. If you want it all in one location, this is your best stop. However, as good as they are, don’t deny yourself the experience of the rest of Tarpon Springs! To help you out, this Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks site and this Tarpon Springs Merchant Association site have, in my opinion,
the best listings of what is offered in this town. Be sure to check them out and plan a few stops before you go, you’re not going to want to miss anything!
4
The gorgeous Howard Park Beach is a must-stop! There is a small entrance fee to get into the park, but it is well worth it! Aside from the glorious white sand beach, you’ll also find playgrounds, picnic shelters, a walking path, a ball field, and of course restrooms. The park is also a great place for windsurfing, so if you’re one of the talented that has mastered this sport, go for it, and as for the rest of us, it’s just as entertaining to watch! If you’re a beach lover, definitely plan on spending at least one day of your long weekend here.
5
The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail starts in St. Petersburg and runs through Tarpon Springs. It’s a multi-use trail enjoyed by bikers, walkers, skaters, and joggers and is a beautiful paved path that makes it easy to enjoy the scenery and get a little exercise at the same time. Be sure to check out this Pinellas Trail guide to discover all you need to know about the trail.
FIVE Things to Know Before You Go
- Tarpon Springs is split up into two areas, the Sponge Docks, and the Greektown Historic District. The Sponge Docks are filled with Greek restaurants, bakeries, shops, and of course, the docks where you can catch tours. The Greektown Historic District is filled with old homes renovated into breweries and eateries, shops, coffee shops, and restaurants.
- Both the historic downtown streets and the Sponge Docks are very walkable. The two areas of town are close enough that you can park once and walk through both, as long as you feel like getting your steps in!
- For an up close and personal view of the amazing wildlife Florida offers, you should take a Kayak Eco Tour on the Anclote River out of Tarpon Springs. You won’t be disappointed.
- If you’re wanting to make sure your evenings are full, you will have no issue in Tarpon Springs. Designate a driver or use a rideshare and head into town and discover the many stops waiting to entertain you. The nightlife in Tarpon Springs is alive and well!
- Parking is relatively easy, there are some free lots and some pay lots, and many of the restaurants will validate your parking. Some say parking in the historic district is easier; I’m sure that varies based on time and day.
- Booking.com has some great options for stays in Tarpon Springs. This is my go-to site for finding places to stay overnight and enjoying the vibe of the town.