Lassing Park

Bayside Beauty

Located in the Old Southeast neighborhood of St. Petersburg, Lassing Park stretches across 14.2 acres of prime Tampa Bay waterfront. This park offers not only pretty views - though the panoramas of St. Pete and Tampa skylines across the water are certainly worth seeing. The park's eastern edge meets a natural shoreline where clear, shallow waters invite you to dip your toes and wade into the bay.

A Bit of History

This piece of paradise has been around since 1924, thanks to a generous land donation from Judge Robert B. Lassing. The park grew through additional land acquisitions before being officially dedicated on January 8, 1942. Over the years, it's become something of a secluded place - a popular gathering space where generations of St. Petersburg residents have created memories against the backdrop of Tampa Bay.

What You'll Find

The park's sprawling green spaces practically beg for picnic blankets, frisbees, and impromptu football games. While swimming isn't allowed, the shallow waters are ideal for wading, especially during low tide when an inviting sandbar appears just offshore.

Scattered shade trees offer respite from the Florida sun, and waterfront benches provide a great perch for taking in those bay views. It's a relaxing spot where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Wildlife Watching

Keep your eyes peeled for the park's feathered residents - seabirds hunt in the shallows and occasionally you might spot some green parrots that have made the area their home. The tidal flats and grass beds in the shallow waters teem with marine life: blue crabs scuttle about, juvenile fish dart through the water, and horseshoe crabs make their prehistoric-looking appearances. Lucky visitors might even catch sight of dolphins breaking the water's surface or, on rare occasions, sharks cruising through the bay.

Get Moving

Kite surfing enthusiasts flock here on windy days, creating a colorful display against the blue sky. Fishing is particularly rewarding, with redfish, snook, and trout regularly making appearances at the end of fishing lines. Crabbing in the shallows can be fun too, but watch your step - there are some unexpected deep spots.

The waterfront makes for easy kayak launching, and the open grassy areas occasionally transform into outdoor yoga studios and fitness spaces during morning exercise sessions.

Protecting Paradise

Since 2022, a living shoreline project has been underway to combat erosion along about 700 feet of the northeastern shoreline. The project involves creating oyster reefs and planting coastal wetlands that provide homes for fish and wildlife while improving Tampa Bay's water quality. Local environmental groups like Tampa Bay Watch have been rolling up their sleeves to help with these restoration efforts.

Community Gatherings

The park has a way of bringing people together. Local churches hold sunrise services here, particularly around Easter, when the dawn breaking over Tampa Bay creates a naturally spiritual backdrop. And if you're looking for an excellent spot to watch fireworks on New Year's Eve or the Fourth of July, you'd be hard-pressed to find better views of displays from around the bay.

Four-Legged Friends Welcome

Dog lovers, rejoice! Your leashed companions are welcome to explore the open spaces and splash in the shallow waters. The beach area is particularly gentle on paws, without the sharp rocks that can make walks uncomfortable for your furry friends.

Plan Your Visit

Lassing Park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 8PM and sits just two miles south of downtown St. Petersburg. Street parking is typically abundant and free, even on busy weekends. One thing to note: there are no restrooms or water fountains in the park, so plan ahead before your visit.