When visiting Florida in general or the Eiko’s Beach House in particular, most of our guests think it is vital to spend as much time as possible at the beach. So here are our four favourite beaches in Pinellas County.
1. Treasure Island
I like strolling out of the beach house with just swimming trunks ,a baseball cap (the sun is hot) and flip flops to access the beach outside the back door! After meandering past the tropical fruit trees, sugar cane, a full grown live tree and outdoor fireplace, I plant my beach towel in my prime location, on white sand, in front of the Gulf and wade into the welcoming blue tropical waters of the gulf.
Porpoises, manatee , and pelicans are just some of the wildlife you may encounter on your trip to this beach. Picnicking, sun worshiping and fishing are at your doorstep while adrenaline sports such as parasailing and jet skiing are available via Johns Pass a short five minute walk from the Eiko Beach House.
2. Fort De Soto Park Beach
Approximately a 10-15 minute drive down scenic Gulf Boulevard from Eiko Beach House. The fort was built as a coastal defence for America during the Spanish and American War in 1898.
While the fort is interesting, a key highlight of the beach is it has a dog friendly area where your favourite four legged friend can enjoy the waves and chase the sea gulls! It cost $5 to enter this State park but well worth the admission price.
Also for those looking for even more fun, consider taking a ferry to Edgemont Key. This island in the middle of Tampa Bay also has an old fort and lighthouse along with a terrific beach and view of the cruise ships and freighters entering and leaving the Port of Tampa.
3. Clearwater Beach
The gem of Pinellas County for many tourist to Florida’s Sun Coast. Clearwater Beach has the powder white sands of Treasure Island Beach and the restaurants, luxury and economical hotels, bars, shops, etc.
The Clearwater marina provides the opportunity to go deep sea fishing, snorkelling or taking the family on a sunset cruise, dolphin watch or a pirate cruise as well! Never a dull moment and entertainment to fit just about anyone’s budget. Clearwater Beach is approximately 20-25 minutes by carfrom Eiko Beach House.
4. Caladesi Island State Park (Dunedin Beach)
Roughly a 45 minute drive north of Eiko Beach House this rustic beach was voted one of Americas Best Beaches in 2016.
From this scenic beach it is possible to take a ferry to the even more secluded Honeymoon Island where many West Coast Floridians went on Honeymoon in the 1920’s. While the beach tends to be a bit rocky the waves are usually robust and it is usually not as crowded as Clearwater Beach. This location also hosts a dog friendly area to enable owner to swim with their best friends.
These are some of our favourite Beaches in Pinellas County as a must to visit while staying at Eiko Beach House.