Weedon Island Preserve

From the paved and dirt pathways and boardwalk to the great views, the preserve is an excellent place to walk around and appreciates nature and go into the history center engage with ancestral Seminole heritage, for adults and children. No charge for entry. Plenty of parking but no food; concession for a kayak rentals. Be prepared for the mosquitoes, this is natural Florida. Lots to see and enjoy. Highly recommended

This preserve is absolutely beautiful, however, from a paddling perspective it’s a little tricky to navigate! If you’re attempting to paddle here be prepared to be heavily reliant upon the tides. Not so great if you’re an earlier paddler because you’ll be waiting for the tide to rise if you want to hit the trails. Also it’s NOT beginner friendly. I came here for my first SUP paddle and it was pretty rough. But the second time I was prepared with bug spray and tide knowledge and managed to complete the southern trail with 38 awkwardly spaced and placed waterway markers. Something to note, you’ll finish the trail paddling upstream against Tampa Bay so save some energy.

Wow this place has it all. I entered the grounds looked to my right there were a couple of gopher tortoises sunning outside of their burrows. The area is huge. Lots to see. They have a few observation decks and one very tall three story observation tower. You cannot fish from the bridges but I seen a ton of fish in the shallows. I would highly recommend Weedon Island Preserve, just keep hydrated.

This place is amazing! So much history. So much nature. The hiking trails and boardwalks are fun! The education center is very informative. No pets. No smoking. No bikes or scooters on the trail. No parking in the grass, there is tiny wildlife all over the place! The weekends fill up quick, so prepare for parking to be scarce. Why not add more parking? Tear down nature so more people can enjoy nature! (And maybe a pickle ball court?)

The Weedon Island Preserve in Tampa, Florida, is a true gem for anyone who loves the outdoors. With miles of scenic boardwalks and trails winding through mangroves, tidal flats, and coastal forests, it’s the perfect spot for long walks, peaceful jogs, or just a relaxing escape into nature. The views of Tampa Bay are beautiful, and the wildlife — from wading birds to fish and crabs — makes every visit feel a little different. The Cultural and Natural History Center adds an enriching touch, offering fascinating insight into the area’s Indigenous heritage and diverse ecosystems through interactive exhibits. Everything is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed to make the experience enjoyable for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a scenic running route, a quiet nature walk, or a chance to learn about Florida’s history and environment, Weedon Island Preserve is an absolute must-visit. Peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for spending a few hours — or an entire day — outdoors.