If you live around the St. Petersburg area you've probably heard about Fort DeSoto more than once when it comes to beautiful beaches and recreation in St. Pete.
Named after the actual Fort De Soto that was built in 1906 to fortify the coast and protect Tampa Bay from potential invasion, Fort De Soto Park still plays home to this structure as well as beaches, trails, and a vast ecosystem spread across the five tiny islands this park calls home. It is one of the best parks in St. Pete for any outdoor recreation that you enjoy.
The beach at Fort De Soto was named America's Top Beach by Trip Advisor in 2009 and #1 beach in the nation by "Dr. Beach" back in 2005. Head out to the vast three miles of sandy white beach on Fort De Soto and see for yourself why these guys named it the best in the country. Check out the private beaches along the most northern point of the island. If you're looking for a romantic getaway with your s/o, rent a pair of bikes and bike along the beaches on paved paths with gorgeous views of the sand dunes and wildlife that inhabits the island.
Another feature at Fort De Soto Park is the 2,200-foot nature trail, a self-guided trail where you can observe this natural ecosystem in action and observe the over 290 bird species that have been spotted in the park. If you're more interested in the underwater life that inhibits the park, rent a kayak or canoe from the boat rental area near the dog park. You can take the kayaks or canoes out for an hour, two hours or all day if you please and adventure around the island to get the most spectacular views of the park.
If you've got a dog, they'll definitely enjoy the dog park at Fort De Soto. Your dog can go right up to the beach if they please in this designated area. My dog, Luna, absolutely loves this play area. There are two dog parks, one for big dogs and one for smaller dogs, but the beach is the most ideal spot for those dogs that can't get enough of the water. It's, in my opinion, the best dog beach in the area because it's clean enough to where you can actually jump in the ocean with your pet. If your dog is anything like mine, that's the most exciting part! Complimentary water stations are also provided in these areas.
Fort De Soto Park also boasts 15 different picnic shelters perfect for a celebration in a natural, outdoor environment as well as 238 different camping sites throughout the park. With plenty of parks in St. Pete that accommodate for families, this one really accommodates for the whole brady bunch. Perfect for a Memorial Day or 4th of July cookout with friends, just bring the hotdogs, hamburgers and plenty of ice-cold drinks for the perfect holiday cookout. Amenities at the sites include picnic tables, grills, fresh water, electricity, washers, dryers, sanitary disposal stations, restrooms, showers, play areas, and a camp store. However, alcohol is not permitted inside the park.
If you're looking to get outdoors in an area that can provide myriad ways to have fun, head to Fort De Soto Park. It's just waiting to be explored.
