Tampa boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida and is an outdoor activity paradise. Thanks to our sunny skies most of the year, there are limitless possibilities to keep one entertained. From the plethora of inland lakes and pristine coastline to the amusement parks and fine art museums, Tampa has something for everyone. These attractions are what transform tourists into permanent residents calling Tampa their home.

Divided into multiple distinct areas, Tampa offers living accommodations to suit every budget. The outskirts of Tampa are home to some of Florida's finest communities including Wesley Chapel, New Tampa, Brandon, Sun City Center, and St. Petersburg just to name a few. As you get closer to the downtown area of Tampa, close proximity to industry, business, and shopping comes at a premium for those looking for convenience and short commutes. Before choosing an area of Tampa to call home, it's important to know what each of these areas has to offer.

Launch your own boat or rent a boat or jet ski. Bicyclists and walkers have miles of private trails that wind through Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Inland lakes such as Lake Tarpon have wonderful parks with boat ramps. Great for a day on the lake or some good fishing. Journey west to the Gulf of Mexico for more outdoor activities.

White sand beaches, fishing and walking piers, and beachfront parks. Visit Tarpon Springs for great tourist shops and restaurants. Take a boat tour of the sponge docks area, often with a Naturalist to explain the wildlife. Boat out to Anclote Key to visit the light house. Travel south along the coast where the barrier island beaches begin. From famous Clearwater beach visit shops, restaurants, sign up for deep sea fishing excursions and a variety of other in and on the water activities then continue south to Pass-a-Grille beach and the “pink hotel,” the Don Cesar.

Stay in the famous Florida flip flop mode or dress up a bit and visit one of the many restaurants along the shores. Take a dinner cruise in Tampa Bay on the Yacht Star Ship. Visit historical Ybor City founded by immigrant cigar makers. Take the trolley from Ybor City to the Channelside district for more shops, restaurants, and strolling by the river. Visit the Florida Aquarium, Mote Aquarium, historic Hyde Park, the Henry B. Plant Museum, Big Cat Rescue, Seminole Hard Rock Cafe, Salvador Dali Museum, Tampa Bay Downs for horse racing, Lowry Park Zoo, and a number of other museums and art galleries.

Head north to MOSI – the Museum of Science & Industry and spend the day with many interactive displays. Continue North to Busch Gardens for another day of amusement rides and live animals. Catch off Broadway shows, music and orchestras at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Mahaffie Theatre, Ruth Ekert Hall, and other venues. Visit the St. Petersburg Pier and a multitude of other attractions in Pinellas County. You can even leave on your cruise from the port of Tampa for the ultimate convenience.

And of course we also have sports. Our own major league baseball team, the 2008 American League champions, the Tampa Bay Rays play in their enclosed air conditioned stadium. For ice hockey (yes, in FL) the Tampa Bay Lightning were the Stanley Cup winners in 2003, and our NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers won the Super Bowl in 2003.

And did we mention golf? We have golf courses for every level. From TPC who hosts the Outback Steakhouse ProAm each year and tout “play where the pros play” to local par 3, nine hole courses with lessons…golf courses abound in the Tampa Bay area.

Within 1-2 hours drive head north toward Ocala and horse county and the mermaids of Weeki-Wachee, head east to the Orlando area for Disney, Epcot, Universal Studios, and Sea World or head south to the Sarasota area, more beaches then add a few extra hours to visit Miami or the Keys.