Looking for the best places to watch the sunset in Tampa, Florida? You’re in the right place!
Tampa is the perfect place to catch a beautiful sunset and is arguably one of the best destinations in Florida to witness the candy hues of the sky as the sun descends at the end of the day.
With its stunning beaches and vibrant cityscape, Tampa offers an impressive experience for all sunset admirers.
The sunsets in Tampa are truly unique with bright oranges and pinks in the sky, the calming sound of waves crashing on the shore, and the silhouettes of the city’s skyline.
You can’t help but be mesmerized by it all so whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or just want to take some time to relax, watching a sunset in Tampa is an experience you won’t forget!
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The Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Tampa at a Glance:
- Fort DeSoto Park: With a backdrop of the bay and the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge the sunsets here are sure to take your breath away
- Rooftop Bar at The Avalon Club Hotel: Here you can catch some of the most magical sunsets in Florida
- St. Pete´s Pier: Come out for Sunset Yoga or Pilates on the Pier for a picturesque waterfront sunset
- Rooftop Pool Bar and Grill at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street: This waterfront location provides majestic views of the Tampa Skyline and bay
Keep reading to find out why I love these places as the best spots to watch the sunset in Tampa, Florida.
1. Picnic Island Park
The sunsets at Picnic Island Park in Tampa are some of the most beautiful in the US. The park is situated right on the waterfront offering stunning views of Tampa Bay.
As the sun sets, the sky is lit up with a beautiful array of colors, from deep oranges to vibrant pinks and purples.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
To pass the time while you wait, the park offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy while they take in the stunning scenery.
From kayaking and fishing to picnicking and beach-combing, there’s something for everyone at this picturesque location.
Address: 3402 W. Columbus Drive Tampa, Florida 33607
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2. Treasure Island
Watching the sunset at Treasure Island in Tampa is a magical experience. The golden rays of the sun reflecting off the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico create an unforgettable spectacle.
As you take in the beauty, you can feel yourself being transported to a different world.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
The gentle breeze, the sound of waves lapping against the shore, and the smell of saltwater all combine to create an atmosphere that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
With its position on Florida’s western coast, Treasure Island offers unrestricted sunset views.
Treasure Island is one of the quietest beaches in the area on an evening making it perfect for peaceful sunset watching but alternative beaches such as Ben T. Davis, Clearwater, and Madeira Beach are equally impressive.
Making it one of the best places to watch the sunset in Tampa!
3. Fort DeSoto Park
The sunsets at Fort DeSoto Park are some of the most stunning and captivating in Tampa.
The park is located on a barrier island off the coast of Tampa Bay with a backdrop of the bay and the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
In the opposite direction, Fort DeSoto offers stunning sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
As the sun sets over these waters, it paints a beautiful picture that is sure to take your breath away.
While visiting, take some time to explore the park’s many attractions including its beaches, trails, and wildlife viewing areas.
Not only is this one of the best places to watch the sunset in Tampa it also has so much to do during the day. So while visiting make it a full day out and take some time to explore the park’s many attractions
Things to Do at this Place to Watch the Sunset in Tampa
- Explore the historical fort
- Look for wildlife along the nature trail
- Go fishing off the piers
- Bring your bike and go for a ride along the multi-purpose trail
- Spend the afternoon on the white sand beaches
- Get out and enjoy the water in a canoe or kayak
- Head to the dog park with your furry friends
Address: 3500 Pinellas Bayway South Tierra Verde, Florida 33715
4. Rooftop Pool Bar and Grill at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
Enjoy the ultimate sunset experience at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street.
The waterfront location of Tampa Marriott Water Street provides majestic views of the Tampa Skyline and bay, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
From the rooftop Pool Bar and Grill, you can take in stunning sunset views of the harbor while sipping on craft cocktails.
The Pool Bar and Grill also offers an array of delicious food for your enjoyment so just sit back and enjoy the sky transforming into a space of total luxury. Making it one of the best places to watch the sunset in Tampa!
This incredible place to watch the sunset in Tampa is open Monday to Thursday from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. This gives you plenty of time to unwind and take in a gorgeous Tampa night.
Address: 510 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602
5. Rooftop Bar at The Avalon Club Hotel
If you’re looking for a romantic evening with an incredible sunset view, look no further than the rooftop bar at The Avalon Club Hotel in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Located on the 5th floor of this luxurious hotel, you can take in the stunning sunset while sipping on a delicious craft cocktail or enjoying some light snacks.
The Avalon Club Hotel feels like a slice of paradise alongside the shores of Clearwater Beach’s sugar sand beaches.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
The atmosphere is perfect for couples or groups of friends to mingle and enjoy the evening with a breathtaking view of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night or just want to have some fun with your friends, the Avalon Club Hotel rooftop bar is sure to make your night unforgettable.
Making it our favorite place to watch the sunset in Tampa!
Address: 24 Avalon St, Clearwater, FL 33767
6. Skyway Bridge Fishing Pier
Watching the sunset from the Skyway Bridge Fishing Pier is a spectacular experience.
The pier stretches across Tampa Bay and offers stunning views of the bay, its surrounding islands, and the Tampa landscape.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
As the sun sets, its warm rays reflect off of the water and create a beautiful backdrop for fishing or simply enjoying a peaceful moment.
One of the world’s longest fishing piers delivers some of the most incredible panoramic views you could ever dream of capturing.
With its breathtaking views, it’s no wonder why this pier has become so popular among locals and tourists alike for evening explorations.
Address: 4905 34th St. South #5000 St. Petersburg FL 33711
7. Curtis Hixon Park
Curtis Hixon Park is a beautiful oasis right in the heart of Tampa and is the perfect place to relax whilst taking in the beauty of a sunset.
Situated along the Hillsborough River, it offers heavenly waterfront views as well as the landscape of downtown Tampa.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
From its lush green grass to its winding walkways, Curtis Hixon Park offers stunning views of the city skyline as it gives way to a brilliant orange and pink sky at dusk.
On a clear evening, you can see sailboats gliding across the river and streetlights twinkling in the distance as the sun sets on another day in Tampa.
Address: 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
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8. St Pete Pier
The St. Pete Pier is one of the most stunningly beautiful places to watch the sunset in Tampa.
Here, you can watch the sun slowly dip below the horizon and enjoy the amazing colors that fill up the sky with unrestricted views.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
From the pier, you can witness boats bobbing in the water, seagulls flying overhead and the coral sky reflecting on the water as kayakers glide by.
With an excellent selection of activities, entertainment and some of the best things to do in Tampa, St Pete Pier is the perfect destination to spend an evening.
Things to Do at this Place to Watch the Sunset in Tampa
- Walk the waterfront
- Let the young ones cool off at the Splash Pad and Playground
- Enjoy waterfront dining
- Come out for Pilates on the Pier or Sunset Yoga
- Shop local and browse the Marketplace for unique finds
- Feel the sand between your toes and chill on Spa Beach
- Pack a picnic and relax in the shade
Address: 600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
9. Don CeSar Resort
Located on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, this luxurious resort offers magnificent views of the sun setting over the horizon.
Renowned as a destination for luxurious experiences, the Don CeSar Resort is arguably the best place in Tampa to watch the sunset.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
From its private beach area, you can witness the most spectacular sunset whilst relaxing on a lounger with your toes in the golden sands and exquisite waterfront views.
Alternatively, the sunset can be enjoyed from Beacon Pool Bar & Lookout where you can indulge in delicious food and beach-inspired cocktails.
After taking in one of the best sunsets in Tampa rewatch this incredible location in “Once Upon a Time in America” to see The Don Cesar star on the big screen with Robert Di Niro and see how it compares.
Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
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10. Cypress Point Park
Cypress Point Park is a breathtaking sight to behold at sunset.
Here you can watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in an array of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples.
Why We Love This Tampa Sunset Location
The tranquil sounds of nature fill the air as you take in this magical moment.
Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the trails and take in stunning views of the bay from one of its many lookout points.
With its beautiful scenery and calming atmosphere, Cypress Point Park is one of the most captivating spots to watch a Tampa sunset.
Address: 5620 W Cypress St, Tampa, FL 33607
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My Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Tampa
As you can see, there are so many places to watch the sunset in Tampa.
You don’t necessarily have to go to a beach to enjoy the amazing views in this Florida city.
Did your favorite spot make this list? If not, hit me up on Instagram and let me where you like to go to watch the sunset in Tampa.
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels Hipster!
About the Author
Steph is a UK-based freelance travel writer and theme park enthusiast. She currently lives in England with her partner and son but is passionate about exploring the world.
(Original Article Date: April 10, 2023/Updated by Editor on March 13, 2024)