Cypress Point Park

Waterfront Escape

Nestled along Old Tampa Bay, Cypress Point Park is a 45-acre glimpse of waterfront tranquility in the heart of Tampa. This cozy location offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and fun activities without the overwhelming crowds you might find elsewhere.

There's a charming beach area with soft, white sand that's well-suited for those days when you want to wiggle your toes in the sand but don't feel like battling the masses at larger beaches. It's small but mighty in terms of relaxation potential!

Trail System

If sitting still isn't your thing, the park offers a nice trail system. A 0.90-mile paved asphalt trail winds through the grounds, making it ideal for your morning jog, a leisurely stroll, or a family bike ride.

For the more adventurous souls, 0.44 miles of nature trails invite you to explore the wilder side of the park. Wander through the small mangrove forest area where tiny crabs scuttle about and local wildlife goes about its day, blissfully unaware of the city just beyond.

Amenities and Activities

The park's abundant green spaces, dotted with palm trees and grassy areas, create a peaceful backdrop for an afternoon picnic or simply lounging with a good book.

You can find several covered pavilions complete with picnic tables and grilling areas that you can reserve for gatherings. Got kids in tow? The playground with its climbing structures and swings will keep the little ones entertained for hours.

Clean restrooms and outdoor shower facilities mean you can rinse off after your beach adventures, but be aware that during busy weekends, these facilities might need a bit more attention.

Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at paddleboarding with the available paddleboard rentals. The calm bay waters are particularly forgiving for first-timers still finding their balance.

And for the disc golf enthusiasts (or curious beginners), an 18-hole disc golf course weaves across the park, offering both challenge and fun.

Wildlife and Water

Bring your binoculars if you're into birdwatching - the park is home to various feathered residents that make for excellent spotting opportunities.

The bay's shallow waters extend quite far from shore, creating a safe splashing zone for families with young children. During low tide, keep your eyes peeled for tiny crabs, interesting shells, and if you're lucky, you might spot dolphins playing in the distance.

Sunset Magic

As day turns to evening, Cypress Point Park transforms into one of Tampa's premier sunset viewing spots. The park's western-facing position creates an excellent canvas for nature's nightly color show as the sun melts into the horizon.

This magical twilight scene draws both photography enthusiasts with professional cameras and folks simply looking to end their day with a moment of peace.

Unique Character

One quirky aspect of this park is its proximity to Tampa International Airport. You'll definitely notice planes flying overhead - sometimes remarkably close - throughout your visit.

Rather than being a distraction, many park-goers find that this creates an interesting juxtaposition of natural serenity and urban energy. If you're an aviation buff, consider it a bonus feature of your park experience!

Note that the park closes at dusk, and parking can fill up during peak times, especially weekends. The parking lot now has fees (no longer free), so come prepared.

Dog Policy

Your four-legged friends are welcome around the park on leashes, but you'll need to keep them off the beach area for sanitary reasons. Service animals are, of course, exempt from this restriction.