13 Water Activities to Try This Season
Tampa is rounding the corner to summer: That sultry season requiring water-based activities for heat survival. Lucky for us, there’s plenty of water activities to be found in these parts. Our friends at UNATION did the research and curated a baker’s dozen of watery activities to try this season. Spoiler alert: It’s not all about the kids.
LOST PEARL
Family-friendly interactive pirate cruise. Kids work together to search for treasure and fire the water cannons, and it’s a pretty great way to spot dolphins. Spirits, wine, beer and soft drinks are available on board.
ADVENTURES BOAT RENTAL
Five adventure packages include predetermined routes and ports o’call. Luxurious 23-foot 12-passenger pontoon boats with nav and depth finders, Bluetooth sound systems, gas grills and bar tables are waiting for you.
PIRATE WATER TAXI
Tampa’s version of a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Hit all the hotspots at the Riverwalk, Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island and more. Onboard during happy hour for drinks specials to sip en route to your next stop.
CAPT MEMO’S PIRATE CRUISE
The treasure these pirates seek is dolphins. While at sea, the kiddos can break out into groups for treasure hunting, face-painting, water gun guns, stories and dancing.
TAMPA BAY STANDUP PADDLEBOARDING & KAYAKING
Standup paddleboard, kayak or pedalboat: Choose your weapon then get out on the water. Newbies, fear not—no experience required. You can kneel on the board or stand up if you’re feeling it.
YACHT STARSHIP
Amazing views, excellent service and luxury dining makes for a special night out on the water. Meals served buffet-style or à la carte, with dining options including Sunday brunches and holidays (Mother’s Day, people).
EBOATS TAMPA
Cruise the river anytime you want without the hassle of owning your own boat. Anybody ages 25 and up can captain a 12-passenger electric boat, no skill or boater’s license required. Hellooooo, sunset party.
KRAKEN CYCLEBOATS
It’s the boozy way to cruise the river while taking in Tampa from its best vantage point. Cycleboat docks at Armature Works for stocking up before heading back upriver. Kraken = complete floating party.
GET UP & GO KAYAKING
Want to get up close and personal to nature? Tool around in a completely clear kayak and check out the marine life doing its thing right underneath you. Check out the glow tour for a nighttime adventure.
URBAN KAI
Standup paddleboarding and kayaking in the 813 and 727. Easy to access from both sides of the bridge. Paddleboarding classes to get you started Legit workout that eases mind and body. Yep, checks all the boxes!
EPPERSON LAGOON
A first-of-its-kind 7.5-acre water park in Wesley Chapel’s Epperson community. Get your day pass to access the tropical beach paradise, Slidezilla, standup paddleboarding, beach volleyball, lawn games and swim-up bar.
HUBBARD’S FERRY
Roundtrips from historic Fort DeSoto to two islands only accessible by boat: Shell Key and Egmont Key. See dolphins, sea turtles, manatees and sharks en route, then relax, snorkel, swim and explore while you’re there.
DOLPHIN TOURS
Doesn’t matter if you’re a local or a tourist, dolphin spotting never gets old. About 700 dolphins live in Tampa Bay so your odds are always good—but they’re said to be most active in the morning when waters are calm.
Clearwater Beach
Downtown Tampa
John’s Pass
Florida Aquarium
Clearwater Aquarium
Tarpon Springs
