ABOUT TAMPA BAY AREA

LGBTQ Tampa Bay Area

The Tampa Bay area is Florida’s largest metro area with Tampa itself, St. Petersburg and the nearby gulf beach towns. Tampa has a thriving nightlife scene in the old town area “Ybor City”, but alas, the gay scene is more spread out. You’ll find gay bars throughout Tampa and St. Petersburg.

Tampa Bay’s beaches are some of the best in the country. Whether you want coarse or fine sand, and whether you seek a mellow day of shelling or a raucous romp on a crowded stretch of waterfront, this place has it all. Of course, you can choose from a range of water activities, including charter fishing, para-sailing, sunset cruises, kayaking, and more.

The region has its share of boutique districts spotted with shops and sidewalk cafés. Tampa’s Hyde Park Village and downtown St. Petersburg’s Beach Drive are among the top picks if you’re looking to check out some upscale shops and dine alfresco while getting the most of the area’s pleasant climate.

Vibrant nightlife tops off Tampa Bay’s list of assets. Ybor City attracts the club set, and barrier islands like St. Pete Beach offer loads of live music and barefoot dancing into the wee hours.