Fort DeSoto Park – East Beach (N/NW)

Fort DeSoto Park is one of the public treasures of the Tampa Bay region. Wonderful beaches, great biking and hiking trails. Historical landmarks and of course wonderful water. (This is not a Foil location.)

After passing through the check point ($5 per car – cash only) make a left at the Flag (Stop sign) for East Beach and a right for North Beach. Check out the location page for more information about North Beach.

East Beach is at the very end of the road and is though technically not a beach allows access to the Bay via two Mangrove cuts. Best on a North or North West wind but can be an interesting location with a Southern wind as well but only if close to a high tide. Freeride and Freestyle.

Weed fin is a must here as the water is very shallow and in the spring/summer/fall thick with Sea Grass. Wonderful flat water and you can sail to the Skyway Bridge or 75¢ if you so wish. Miles of open water with almost no boat traffic.

Showers at the East Beach Restrooms in the East Beach Parking lot area.

Caution: The Sea Grass is very healthy at this location. Many critters in the grass including crabs, conchs, scallops, and sea urchins. Claws, sharp spins and hard shells. I recommend water shoes of some sort. Also watch out for the RED (FIRE) ANTS in the rigging area!