Caladesi Island Fort De Soto ON THE WATER Bright skies and calm conditions set the tone for an unforgettable day on the water, and there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of it. If you’re looking to explore at your own pace, renting a small powerboat is one of the best ways to do it. Cruise between sandbars, drop anchor for a swim, or pull up to a waterfront restaurant for a laid-back lunch. For a more adventurous ride, hop on a Jet Ski and skim across the open waters of Tampa Bay or the gentle swells of the Gulf. You’ll find rental options everywhere from Madeira Beach and Clearwater Beach to Tarpon Springs. At the southern tip of the region, Fort De Soto Park remains a classic go-to for paddlers, anglers, campers and beachgoers alike. Spanning five interconnected islands, the park offers a 2.25-mile self-guided paddle trail through mangroves and seagrass, plus a longer 10-mile loop around Mullet Key Bayou for those ready to settle in for a few hours on the water. Wildlife sightings — ranging from shorebirds to dolphins — are common, and on-site kayak rentals make it easy to jump in without advance planning. Farther north in St. Pete, Weedon Island Preserve delivers a more immersive paddling experience. Its 4-mile South Paddling Trail winds through dense mangrove tunnels and opens into quiet saltwater ponds teeming with wildlife. Clam Bayou Nature Preserve , roughly a 20-minute drive west, offers another scenic route, ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. You can explore on your own or book a guided ecotour with Kayak Nature Adventures for a deeper look at the area’s ecosystems. A Boat Day Tours White Ibis on Treasure Island VISITSPC.COM 51
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