St. Leo FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near St. Leo, Florida.
1. Clearwater Beach
WHITE SAND AND VIBRANCE
Clearwater Beach is renowned for its powdery white sand, vibrant atmosphere, and picturesque sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. The beach offers plenty of water recreation opportunities, including swimming, paddle boarding, parasailing, and dolphin-watching cruises. Its bustling promenade is lined with shops, restaurants, and seasonal events, making it a favorite escape for locals and visitors alike.
2. Fort De Soto Park
NATURAL COASTAL PLAYGROUND
Fort De Soto Park features over seven miles of waterfront, including three miles of sandy beaches and a popular dog beach. Visitors can swim in the gentle Gulf waters, kayak through mangrove tunnels, or explore historic fort structures along scenic nature trails. Its blend of pristine coastal beauty and recreational amenities makes it a top choice for families and nature lovers.
3. St. Pete Beach
CLASSIC BEACH DESTINATION
St. Pete Beach offers an inviting stretch of white sand and turquoise water, perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and swimming. Water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing are popular, with plenty of rental options available right on the beach. The laid-back atmosphere, beachfront resorts, and charming local shops make this a quintessential Florida beach getaway.
4. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
NATURAL SPRINGS ADVENTURE
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is famous for its crystal-clear freshwater springs and live mermaid shows. Guests can swim in Buccaneer Bay, tube down the spring-fed river, or rent kayaks for a scenic paddle through lush, undeveloped wilderness. Its unique combination of family entertainment and natural beauty makes it a standout freshwater escape.
5. Honeymoon Island State Park
SECLUDED BARRIER ISLAND
Honeymoon Island State Park boasts unspoiled sandy beaches, nature trails, and abundant birdlife along the Gulf Coast. Visitors can swim, fish, or search for shells along the tranquil shoreline, or rent bikes to explore the scenic trails beneath coastal pines. The relaxed, natural setting offers a peaceful retreat for beachgoers looking to escape crowds.
6. Fred Howard Park
SERENE WATERFRONT ESCAPE
Fred Howard Park is a hidden gem featuring a sandy beach on the Gulf accessed by a scenic causeway. The park is ideal for swimming, windsurfing, and picnicking under shady pavilions with panoramic views of the water. Its calm setting and shallow water make it especially family-friendly.
7. Sunset Beach
LAID-BACK BEACH SPOT
Sunset Beach is a small, charming gulf-front beach park renowned for its stunning sunset views and relaxed atmosphere. Soft sands and shallow waters make it popular for swimming and sunbathing, while picnic tables and palm trees provide a comfortable place to unwind. Frequent live music events and festivals add extra appeal for visitors.
8. Lake Jovita
PEACEFUL LAKESIDE RETREAT
Lake Jovita offers a peaceful freshwater experience surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery near St. Leo. The private development does have some public access points where visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the scenic lakeshore. Its calm, picturesque setting makes it a tranquil alternative to oceanfront beaches.
9. Anclote River Park
RIVERFRONT BEACH AND PARK
Anclote River Park features a sandy riverfront beach along the Anclote River with easy access for swimming, boating, and fishing. The adjacent public park offers picnic shelters, a playground, and boat ramps, making it a popular local gathering place. Its blend of river recreation and park amenities provides a versatile waterfront escape.
10. Robert K. Rees Memorial Park (Green Key Beach)
COASTAL BEACH PARK
Robert K. Rees Memorial Park, known as Green Key Beach, offers a narrow sandy beach on the Gulf with shallow waters ideal for family swimming and wading. The park includes a boardwalk over mangroves, picnic facilities, and opportunities to spot dolphins and coastal birds. Its accessible amenities and scenic coastal setting make it a favorite for local beachgoers.