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Many out-of-state students and even in-state students from different areas of Florida have the same initial thought their first weekend on campus once the chaos of moving into a new dorm and meeting dozens of new people has died down: what the heck is there to do around here?
Acquainting oneself with the area surrounding the university should help put any incoming student at ease, as nobody enjoys feeling alone in a strange town. Exploring Tampa Bay and enjoying its beauty and character is the first step in turning this new location into a home for the next few years. The local beaches are an excellent destination with which to start because a mere hour-long drive from campus leads to several of the country’s best beaches that remain among the most highly acclaimed in the world. These beauties will surely leave anyone awestruck, but it will truly be a remarkable experience for any students arriving from landlocked states.
Clearwater Beach is currently ranked as the No. 1 Best Beach in the United States of 2018 by TripAdvisor users. Free parking downtown makes it an ideal hangout spot for students on a budget. It costs nothing to enjoy the soft white sand and crystal clear water for which the beach is known, so there’s no excuse to skip the chance to take in the view from the famous Pier 60, which boasts a 1,080-foot fishing pier. For those with spending money, there are also countless establishments for oceanside shopping and dining.
St. Pete Beach stands tall at No. 7 on TripAdvisor’s list of the Best American Beaches this time around, but it has held the top spot in previous years. Like Clearwater, it is renowned for its snowy-white sand. The island encompassed by the beaches holds many small shops and cafes and overflows with art, maintaining an atmosphere that is upbeat but not overwhelming.
Madeira Beach is known for its seafood as it is a hotspot for Grouper fishing, but those that do not have an affinity for fish should have no fear. Madeira beach is another lovely sunbathing spot with no lack in supply of white sand and captivating blue water. The dolphin-watching cruise offered at the marina sets this beach apart from others on the list, and John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk provides over 50 shops to stroll through as well as boisterous nightlife.
Fort De Soto Beach is a favorite among Tampa Bay locals. Because it is the southernmost beach on this list, it is a bit more of a drive from campus (by about 15-20 minutes), but it is rarely crowded, making it the perfect beach to relax and embrace nature (and you never know what critters you may find on the sandbar). Out of all other beaches on this list, this one feels the most like an oceanside park complete with removed barbeque spots between the parking lot and the sand perfect for gatherings of friends and families. Parking is only $5 and well worth it. This beach also offers camping spot rentals and watersports activities to make it a true weekend getaway. Visitors can bring along their furry companions to enjoy the nearby dog park, as well. This low-key gem indeed has something for everyone.
All of the above beaches are fairly accessible. Each one is estimated by Google Maps to be about an hour-long drive from University Campus, but it is well worth it. Start planning your beach trip with your roommate right away. And for those that lack their own transportation, the Campus Activities Board has been known to arrange bus trips to the beach, so be sure to check out their monthly calendars.
