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Park · St. Petersburg, Florida
Fort De Soto Park
Pinellas County park on five islands at the entrance to Tampa Bay, with light-sand beaches, two fishing piers, trails, a campground and the ruins of a fort with mortar batteries built starting in 1898.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto occupies five islands south of St. Petersburg at the entrance to Tampa Bay, totaling more than 450 hectares. The main public access points are Mullet Key and the neighboring islands, connected by bridges and a causeway.
The fort that gives the park its name began construction in 1898, during the war between the United States and Spain, and was completed in 1906. Remains include 12-inch mortar batteries and a small museum with the garrison’s history.
The park has two bathing areas, North Beach and East Beach. North Beach, with wide sand and shallow water, was once named the best beach in the United States on Dr. Beach’s list in 2005. There are two fishing piers, trails, a bike path, a campground and a lagoon that can be explored by kayak.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day to a full day.
Best time
October to May, with less heat and rain; go in the morning to see birds and avoid the strongest sun.
How to get there
About 15 km south of downtown St. Petersburg, via the Pinellas Bayway and Tierra Verde. Access is by car or bicycle; the park charges for parking and there is a toll on the Bayway.
Tip
Bring water and a hat for the walk between the fort and the beaches: distances inside the park are large. There are repairs to piers and docks; the end of Bay Pier is closed. Check county advisories.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fort De Soto Park
What to do at Fort De Soto Park?
Visit North Beach and East Beach, see the fort and its mortar batteries, fish from the piers, bike and kayak.
When was Fort De Soto built?
Construction began in 1898, during the war between the United States and Spain, and finished in 1906.
Is Fort De Soto far from St. Petersburg?
It is about 15 km south of downtown, via the Pinellas Bayway.