Nature & Parks

The St. Pete/Clearwater region is brimming with parks and nature preserves, making it easy to wander to the nearest green space and breathe in some fresh air.

For a look at untouched nature, local preserves are the way to go. Weedon Island Preserve is filled with hiking trails and kayaking paths, ideal for bird watching or simply spending time in the great outdoors. Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve adds a beautiful mangrove-lined boardwalk into the mix.

If you prefer to stroll through a park, there are dozens to choose from in the St. Pete/Clearwater area. Philippe Park in Safety Harbor is fantastic for a picture-perfect picnic or photo shoot, with its towering oak trees draped in wispy Spanish moss. Sawgrass Lake Park in St. Pete is known for its wildlife spotting opportunities – from turtles and waterbirds to armadillos and alligators.

To round out the nature-focused fun, add a couple of botanical gardens to the list. The famed Sunken Gardens in St. Pete is filled with koi ponds, small waterfalls, vibrant plants, and colorful birds. The Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo is home to 100 acres of thriving flora for you to explore.