The largest in Pinellas County System, Fort De Soto Park [3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715] has a lot to offer. It’s been named America’s top beach and has seven miles of waterfront with white sand beaches.
Other than sand, there are seven miles of paved trails, and a few off road hiking trails.
Keep your eyes peeled to spot some of the 328 species of birds known in the park. If beaching and hiking aren’t enough, you can get your fill of history too by visiting the namesake fort. Take a load of the 12-inch guns posted around the grounds (made in the Watervliet Arsenal).
Learn more about the functions of the fort used from the Civil War on in the Quartermaster Storehouse Museum, filled with informational plaques and artifacts.
If you plan on visiting Egmont key, this is where you’ll catch the ferry from. We explored both parks in the same day. Be aware, there is an entrance fee and a toll to visit the park!