Nestled on Florida’s picturesque Gulf Coast, Apollo Beach offers a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located just south of Tampa, this charming waterfront community is renowned for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere. Apollo Beach offers visitors a range of exciting activities and attractions often overlooked by visitors.

Apollo Beach is famous for its unique manatee viewing opportunities. The warm waters of Tampa Bay attract these gentle giants during the winter months, offering visitors a chance to observe them in their natural habitat. The Manatee Viewing Center, located nearby, provides educational exhibits and boardwalks for a closer look at these magnificent creatures.

Location

Apollo Beach is conveniently located in Hillsborough County, Florida, making it easily accessible for visitors from Tampa and the surrounding areas. Situated along the eastern shore of Tampa Bay, the beach is a short drive from downtown Tampa, making it an ideal destination for day trips or weekend getaways.

Things to To Do

1. Apollo Beach Nature Preserve: Explore this picturesque conservation area, known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery. Take a walk along the nature trails, enjoy bird watching, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to navigate the calm waters and potentially encounter manatees and other marine life.
2. Apollo Beach Golf Club: Golf enthusiasts can tee off at this popular 18-hole championship golf course. Enjoy a round of golf amidst lush greenery, well-manicured fairways, and challenging holes suitable for players of all skill levels.
3. E.G. Simmons Regional Park: Located nearby, this park offers various recreational activities. Go fishing from the pier or shoreline, have a picnic, or take advantage of the park’s boat ramp for boating and kayaking adventures. The park also features nature trails, a playground, and a sandy beach area.
4. Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center: Just a short drive from Apollo Beach, this unique attraction provides an opportunity to observe manatees in their natural habitat. Learn about these gentle creatures through educational exhibits and enjoy the scenic boardwalks overlooking the warm-water discharge canal where manatees often congregate.
5. Tampa Bay Brewing Company: Beer enthusiasts can visit this local brewery to sample a wide selection of craft beers and enjoy a casual dining experience. From IPAs to stouts and seasonal brews, there’s something to suit every taste.
6. Tampa Bay SUP: Experience the thrill of stand-up paddleboarding with Tampa Bay SUP. Rent equipment or join a guided tour to explore the calm waters and scenic coastline. It’s a great way to enjoy the beauty of Apollo Beach from a unique perspective.
7. Nearby Attractions: Apollo Beach’s location offers convenient access to other popular Tampa Bay attractions. Take a short drive to Tampa to visit the vibrant Ybor City district, explore the Florida Aquarium, catch a professional sports game, or enjoy shopping and dining at the lively Channelside Bay Plaza.
8. Day Trips: Apollo Beach serves as a great base for day trips to nearby destinations. Explore the natural wonders of the nearby Hillsborough River State Park, visit the thrilling Busch Gardens theme park, or head to the stunning Gulf Coast beaches such as Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach.

With its mix of outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and proximity to other exciting attractions, Apollo Beach in Tampa, Florida, offers a plethora of activities to ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit for travelers of all interests.

Nature Trails and Wildlife

Beyond its beautiful beachfront, Apollo Beach is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The area is home to diverse ecosystems, including salt marshes, mangrove forests, and coastal habitats. Explore the numerous nature trails and boardwalks that wind through these natural landscapes, offering glimpses of native plants, bird species, and other wildlife.

Apollo Beach Nature Preserve

The Apollo Beach Nature Preserve is a scenic and serene conservation area located in Apollo Beach. Spanning over 90 acres, this nature preserve is known for its stunning coastal landscapes, diverse wildlife, and tranquil ambiance.

The highlight of the Apollo Beach Nature Preserve is the opportunity to observe Florida’s beloved gentle giants, the manatees. The warm-water discharge canal attracts these majestic creatures during the winter months, providing a unique chance to witness them up close. Visitors can view the manatees from the designated observation deck, which offers a clear vantage point to observe their graceful movements and interactions.

Apart from the manatees, the preserve boasts a variety of other wildlife species. Keep an eye out for native bird species, including herons, egrets, ospreys, and pelicans, which can be spotted soaring above the water or perched along the shoreline. The preserve is also home to various fish species, turtles, and occasional dolphin sightings, adding to the rich biodiversity of the area.

To fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Apollo Beach Nature Preserve, visitors can explore the walking trails and boardwalks that wind through the lush vegetation. The trails offer opportunities for leisurely strolls, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching. The serene surroundings provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

Education and environmental awareness are also emphasized within the preserve. Informational signage is placed along the pathways, providing insights into the local ecosystem, wildlife, and conservation efforts. The preserve aims to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation for the delicate balance of nature and the importance of protecting these habitats.

The Apollo Beach Nature Preserve is open to the public, free of charge, making it an accessible destination for nature lovers and families. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, observe fascinating wildlife, and experience the captivating beauty of Florida’s coastal environment.