Best Water Activities in Tampa Bay to Try – UNATION

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Must-try water activities

Here's your go-to guide for the best ways to get on the water around Tampa Bay.

Tierra Verde Watersports

If you’re looking to escape to some of the gorgeous places Tampa Bay has to offer, then Tierra Verde Watersports is a perfect option! You can cruise on over to Egmont Key, Shell Key, or cruise under the beautiful Sunshine Skyway Bridge!

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Business Details

100 Pinellas Bayway S, St Petersburg, FL 33715-1700, United States

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Go Tiki Tours Tampa

Step aboard their unique floating tiki bar and enjoy amenities like a bathroom on board for longer tour times, BYOB options with supplied coolers and cups, and even a shotski for special celebrations. Whether you’re planning a party, a family outing, or just a relaxing day on the water, this is the way to go!

Activity Details

$59

2East Tampa Tampa, FL, United States

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Pirate Water Taxi

The Pirate Water Taxi is a classic attraction in Downtown Tampa! Tickets include passage to places such as Channelside, Davis Island, Tampa Riverwalk, and more! Make sure you check out the Happy Hour cruise! It’s a great way to pregame before you get to your destination.

Business Details

333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, United States

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Yacht Starship

A night spent with Yacht Starship is without a doubt a night of luxury dining, amazing views and some of the best service in Tampa Bay! This is a perfect date night activity for a night out on the water!

Business Details

Yacht Starship, 603 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, United States

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Totally Tiki Tours

The perfect way to celebrate! Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, or a bachelor’s/bachelorette’s party, they offer day tours and sunset tours, both private and public. Grab your friends and get ready to have some fun!

More plans to enjoy the water in the Bay

Whether you're a local or visitor, you won't want to miss out on these things to do.

Activity

Dolphin shelling and Eco tour out of Madeira Beach FL

Attraction

Sea Screamer & Clearwater Beach Day Trip

From$145

Activity

Clearwater Sunset Cruise and Dolphin Watch

Activity

Kayaking Clear through Clearwater

Activity

Private Snorkeling to Egmont, Outback, and Shell Key Islands

Activity

2-Hour 15-Minute Sunset Sail in a Luxury Yacht

Attraction

St. Pete Beach Area: Dolphin Racer Speedboat Adventure

From$29.5

Natural springs near Tampa Bay

Hop in your car to check out these gorgeous, crystal clear natural springs in the Sunshine State!

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MetroLagoons

MetroLagoons in Florida are a splashy paradise with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and tons of water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Perfect for a sunny day out with family or friends, you can relax, swim, and enjoy a tropical vibe without leaving the state!

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River Wild Kayaking

River Wild Kayaking offers a wide selection of tour times. Make sure you check out the sunset cruise. Travel through the mangroves during the times the wildlife is most active, and you’ll get to see the beautiful Florida sunset!

Business Details

1060 North Pinellas Avenue, Tarpon Springs, FL, USA

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Urban Kai

Are you looking for a fun day full of paddle boarding or kayaking? Urban Kai, located in Downtown Tampa and St. Pete, is one of our favorite places to go!

Our recommendation: Don’t know how to paddleboard? No worries! Urban Kai offers classes that are sure to have you coming back for more!

Business Details

Urban Kai, 13090 Gandy Blvd N, St Petersburg, FL 33702, United States

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A Boat Day

With a friendly and experienced captain, you’re free to explore the coolest spots worry-free. Sip on your favorite drinks enjoying the freedom to go wherever your heart desires. It’s your boat, your captain, and your day of unforgettable memories on the water!

Looking for even more fun in the sun?

Check out these ideas for more.

Sea Screamer and Clearwater Day Trip

Clearwater’s iconic speedboat, for dolphin sightings and a thrilling ride.

Speed Boat Adventure Tampa Bay

Captain your own mini speedboat on a guided Tampa Bay tour.

Adventure Island Tampa Bay

Cool down at Tampa’s favorite water park with giant slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones.

Clear Kayaking Glow Tour in Tampa

Paddle through the water in a glowing, see-through kayak for a magical after-dark adventure.

Plan like a local

We’ve got all the recommendations, FAQs, and videos to help you indoor like a pro.

What’s the best water activity for a hot day? +-
Paddleboarding early morning or beach time at Pass-a-Grille offers both breeze and easy access.
Can I do water activities without owning a boat? +-
Absolutely—use apps like GetMyBoat, join a group tour, or try paddleboard rentals from spots like Urban Kai.
Is it safe to swim in the Bay? +-
Stick to designated swimming beaches like Clearwater or Ben T. Davis for safe, monitored waters.
Where can I see dolphins? +-
Try a dolphin cruise in John’s Pass or rent a kayak near Shell Key for a more natural spotting experience.
Are these activities kid-friendly? +-
Yes! Dolphin tours, shelling at Egmont Key, and tubing down Weeki Wachee are great for families.
What’s the most unique experience? +-
Wakeboarding via cable at McCormick’s or parasailing over Clearwater Beach are one-of-a-kind.
How crowded do things get? +-
Weekends and holidays fill up fast—locals know weekdays and early mornings are prime time.
Can I bring my dog? +-
Many kayak rental spots and beaches are dog-friendly—just check the rules first!

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