Romantic Island Escape in Tampa Bay

Discover love and sunshine in Tampa - the perfect romantic escape.

22 April 2023

. Tampa, situated on the west coast of Florida, offers an ideal spot for a romantic getaway. With its azure waters, white-sand beaches, and picturesque sunsets, it's the perfect place to create lifelong memories. Other highlights include world-class cuisine, cultural attractions, and a range of outdoor activities for couples to enjoy together.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Wandering Through Ybor City

  • Check into the Epicurean Hotel, a luxurious boutique hotel for couples with a rooftop bar and a chocolate shop.
  • Explore Ybor City, a historic district with charming streets filled with cigar shops, bars, and restaurants.
  • Learn about the city's history at the Ybor City Museum State Park, housed in the former Ferlita Bakery building.
  • Take a tour of the historic buildings and landmarks with Ybor City Walking Tours.
  • Have a romantic dinner at Columbia Restaurant, the oldest restaurant in Florida, with beautiful Spanish decor and top-notch Cuban food.
Day 2

Island Hopping

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel's restaurant, Élevage, voted one of the best in the city.
  • Take a day trip to one of the nearby islands such as Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach.
  • Relax on the white sandy beaches, swim in the Gulf of Mexico, and soak up the sun.
  • Rent a jet ski or go parasailing for a thrilling adventure.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood for lunch at Frenchy's Clearwater Beach or Snapper's Sea Grill in St. Pete Beach.
Day 3

Art and Science in Downtown Tampa

  • Take a short drive to the Riverwalk in downtown Tampa, a scenic boardwalk along the Hillsborough River.
  • Visit the Tampa Museum of Art, a contemporary art museum with changing exhibits and a beautiful view of the river.
  • Explore the interactive exhibits at the Glazer Children's Museum, perfect for adults and kids alike.
  • Have a late lunch at Ulele, a trendy restaurant that celebrates Florida cuisine with fresh seafood and craft beer.
  • End the day with a sunset cruise along the river with Tampa Water Taxi Company.
Day 4

Thrills and Chills

  • Start the day with brunch at the Oxford Exchange, an eclectic spot with a bookstore, coffee bar, and restaurant.
  • Visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, an amusement park with thrilling roller coasters and exotic animal exhibits.
  • Take a break from the rides and cool off at Adventure Island, a water park with slides and lazy rivers.
  • Have a romantic dinner at Bern's Steak House, a Tampa institution with a massive wine cellar and phenomenal steaks.
  • End the night with a nightcap at Ciro's Speakeasy and Supper Club, a hidden gem with a vintage vibe and craft cocktails.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tampa by plane is to fly into Tampa International Airport, located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Tampa. Major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United all offer multiple flights to Tampa from major cities across the United States.

Car

The best way to get to Tampa by car is to take either I-75 or I-4, both of which connect Tampa to other major cities across the United States. Tampa is located about an hour and a half southeast of Orlando on I-4, and about four hours southwest of Jacksonville on I-75.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Tampa. However, if you are traveling from other cities in Florida, Amtrak offers several routes that go through nearby cities such as Orlando and Miami, with connecting bus service to Tampa.

Boat

While there is no direct way to get to Tampa by boat, there are several nearby ports such as the Port of Tampa and the Port of St. Petersburg that offer cruise ship service to destinations throughout the Caribbean and Mexico. Tampa is located just a short drive from both ports, making it a popular pre- and post-cruise destination for many travelers.

Bus

The best way to get to Tampa by bus is to take Greyhound, which offers multiple daily buses to Tampa from cities across the United States. The Tampa Greyhound Station is located in downtown Tampa, just a few blocks from popular attractions such as the Tampa Riverwalk and Amalie Arena.

More travel plans

Tampa Thrills and Family Delights

A family-friendly trip to Tampa, United States offers an array of exciting activities for all ages. Explore the captivating wonders of the Florida Aquarium, where kids can get up close with marine life and even swim with gentle sharks. Visit the famous Busch Gardens theme park, known for its thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live shows, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family.

4 Days to Tampa Bay Bliss on a Budget!

Tampa offers ample opportunities for budget-conscious travelers, from strolling along the scenic riverwalk to exploring the city's many art galleries and museums. With affordable options for lodging and dining, visitors can enjoy everything the Florida city has to offer without breaking the bank. Don't miss the chance to soak up some sun on the area's world-famous beaches and take advantage of free outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing.

A Romantic Day Trip to Tampa's Waterfront

Tampa, located on the Gulf of Mexico, offers a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway with plenty of beaches, sunsets and waterfront activities. Enjoy the scenic drive along the coastline, explore Busch Gardens theme park or embark on a sunset cruise. Treat your taste-buds to some fresh seafood and indulge in some fine dining experiences while enjoying the city's old-world charm.

8 Day Romantic Getaway: Tampa Bay Romance

A romantic trip to Tampa, USA offers plenty of opportunities for couples to create intimate memories. Enjoy strolling hand-in-hand along the Tampa Riverwalk or visiting the peaceful Tampa Bayshore Boulevard to watch the sunset together. Take advantage of local dining options for candlelit dinners, or explore nearby attractions such as the Lowry Park Zoo for a fun date experience.