Both tourists and locals flock to Fort De Soto Park to walk the trails, swim in the Gulf, fish, kayak, and relax in the warm sun. This park is home to my favorite beaches in the area and boasts absolutely stunning sunsets.
If you are ever in the St. Petersburg or Tampa area, I highly recommend stopping by this park. For a particularly beautiful and peaceful experience, I suggest you hang around the park’s Gulf Pier at sunset. You’ll be able to observe pelicans and other birds flying around the colorful sky and might even see a dolphin.
At sunset, the pier becomes an incredibly dramatic structure to gaze at, as the sun appears to descend into the Gulf right beside it.
It’s certainly worth a visit! I know I always leave this park feeling so relaxed and happy, and I think you just might feel the same way after visiting this beautiful place.
Know Before You Go:
+ Fort De Soto Park is Pinellas County park, so there is a small entrance fee. You will need to pay $5 at one of the pay stations near the entrance.
+ There are two piers at Fort De Soto. I’m specifically talking about the Gulf Pier in this post.
+ Most areas of this park close at dark, but the piers are open until 11:00 p.m.
+ During the warmer months of the year, no-see-ums can be bothersome. It’s not a bad idea to pack bug spray with you if you plan on hanging out for any length of time.
+ There are restrooms and picnic areas throughout the park. Additionally, there is shop at the Gulf Pier that offers snacks, souvenirs, and bait. (A larger shop is located nearby.) To learn more about the facilities at Fort De Soto Park, please visit their website.
Get in Touch
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email me at emilykeenphotography@gmail.com. Also feel free to check out similar posts I’ve made, such as The Best Places to Watch Sunset in the Greater Tampa Area.
Emily Keen Photography 