Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

Unwritten Rules You Should Know Before Visiting Tampa

staff@islands.com (Tess Kazenoff) — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 16:30:00 +0000

Plan a smarter Tampa trip with these local unwritten rules, from where to go and what to eat to how to get around without common first-time mistakes.

These 3 Major US Airports Are Ditching TSA For Private Security — Here's How It Will Affect Travelers

staff@islands.com (Kenan Dudley) — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 09:15:00 +0000

Starting in 2027, these U.S. airports will begin replacing TSA with privatized security. Here's what experts say will (and won't) change on your travel days.

5 US Airports With The Best Parking (And 5 With The Worst)

staff@islands.com (Rebekah Winters Barton) — Sun, 26 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000

If you're lucky, you can grab a cab to the airport or a ride from a friend. If you have to drive yourself, though, some airports are better than others.

The Best Places To Spot Florida Wildlife In Tampa, According To A Local

staff@islands.com (C. M. Ramsburg) — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000

See dolphins, manatees, alligators, birds, and more on your Tampa trip with these local-approved wildlife spots that offer unforgettable nature encounters.

America's Most Charming And Walkable Downtowns For An Unforgettable Vacation

staff@islands.com (Tess Kazenoff) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 22:30:00 +0000

From breezy coastal towns to mountain retreats, these are America's most charming walkable downtowns, perfect for easy-going breaks in historic scenery.

Between Tampa And Fort Myers Is Florida's Riverside Park For Paddling And Picnicking

staff@islands.com (Audrey Simons) — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 19:45:00 +0000

About 45 miles south of Tampa you will find a riverside park where you can enjoy the great outdoors, whether that involves paddling or hanging out on the shore.

Florida's Gorgeous Park In Tampa Has Boardwalk Trails, Kayaking, And Wildlife Encounters

staff@islands.com (Audrey Simons) — Sun, 10 May 2026 15:25:00 +0000

The park and nature center provide a quiet respite while surrounded by Old Florida, with mangroves lining the water, birds all around, and manatees swimming by.

Between Tampa And The Gulf Coast Is A Florida State Park Gem With Fishing, Kayaking, And Salt Springs

staff@islands.com (Danno Wise) — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

If you're going to Florida and want to experience something different from the usual beaches, you should check out this unique state park near the coast.

Tampa's Glitzy Business District Is Packed With Waterfront Feasts, Scenic Strolls, And Enticing Attractions

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 18:25:00 +0000

This thriving Tampa waterfront hub offers standout seafood, walkable streets, cultural landmarks, and easy connections to top attractions across the city.

Tampa's Walkable Neighborhood Is A Charming Sought-After Gem With Waterfront Views And Boutique Shops

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000

There's nothing quiet like a stroll through town, popping into a few charming shops and glancing out over the water, and Tampa has a real winner to check out.

Florida's 5 Hands-Down Best Bagel Shops In Tampa, According To Locals

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Nothing hits the spot like a bagel in the morning (with cream cheese or as an egg sandwich), and Tampa has a bunch of great options to choose from.

Tampa's Best Rooftop Bars Serve Sweeping Views And Standout Cocktails, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Tampa has a booming downtown, and with that comes skyline views. Here are the city's best rooftop bars for a cocktail with a view.

Tampa's Trendy Food Hall Blends Historic Charm With Modern Restaurants, Lawn Games, And A Rooftop Bar

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Tampa, Florida, is a must-visit for any foodie, and this historic food hall on the Riverwalk will satisfy cravings, no matter what you're hungry for.

These 5 Tampa Dock-And-Dine Restaurants Let You Skip The Car And Cruise To Dinner

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000

A day on the water in Tampa, Florida, can make you hungry, and these five restaurants let you park your boat right in front of them while you eat.

Tampa's Hands-Down 5 Best Seafood Restaurants In The Downtown Area, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

These five seafood restaurants in Tampa's lively downtown area provide the perfect complement to the city's beautiful beaches and sunny days.

5 Must-Visit Waterfront Restaurants In Tampa For Dining With Idyllic Views, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Nothing beats a meal with a view, and if you're looking for some great options on the water in the Tampa area, we have you covered.

5 Destination-Worthy Patio Brunch Spots In Tampa, Florida, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000

There's nothing quite like a fun brunch, and if you're in Tampa (and trying eat outside without getting baked by the sun) you have lots of great options.

Tampa's 4 Pirate-Themed Attractions For Memorable Family Fun, According To Parents

staff@islands.com (Eva Johnstone) — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

From learning about historic buccaneers to cheering on swashbuckling pirate floats in a parade, these are parents' favorite pirate attractions in Tampa.

Tampa's 5 Hands-Down Best Italian Restaurants, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Tampa might not be the first place you think of when you're hunting for great Italian food, but if you know where to look you can find some hidden treasures.

The 5 Most Underrated Spots To Visit In Tampa, Florida, According To Travelers

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 03:00:00 +0000

The five most underrated spots to visit in Tampa, Florida, include a museum, a theater, parks, and more for visitors looking to explore off the beaten path.