Bayshore Boulevard runs along Hillsborough Bay from near downtown Tampa to Gandy Boulevard, and its wide waterfront sidewalk is one of the city’s favorite places to exercise and relax. At about 4.5 miles, it is often described as one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the country. For newcomers, especially those living in South Tampa, it quickly becomes part of daily life. This guide explains how to use it well.
Key takeaways
- The Bayshore sidewalk is about 4.5 miles long, from near downtown to Gandy Boulevard.
- It is used for walking, running and biking, with separate bike lanes along parts of the road.
- Mornings and evenings are the best times; there is little shade.
What Bayshore is like
On one side is the bay, behind a long decorative balustrade; on the other are historic homes, condos and the tree-lined neighborhoods of South Tampa. The sidewalk is wide and flat, with benches along the way and views across the water to Davis Islands and downtown. Dolphins, pelicans and other birds are often spotted from the rail. It is a place where people walk dogs, train for races, push strollers and watch the sunset.
Using it safely
The sidewalk is shared by many kinds of users. Walkers and runners should keep to one side and look before stopping or turning; cyclists should use the bike lanes where they exist and ride carefully on shared sections. Bayshore Boulevard itself carries traffic, and the city has worked on changes to improve safety for people walking and biking, so follow current signs and crossings.
Bayshore at a glance
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| Length | About 4.5 miles |
| Start and end | Near downtown to Gandy Boulevard |
| Surface | Wide, flat sidewalk |
| Shade | Very little |
| Best times | Early morning and evening |
| Best for | Walking, running, biking, sunsets |
Tip: Start at the downtown end in the morning and walk south with the sun behind you, then take a ride back. Or start at Gandy in the evening and walk north toward the city lights.
Events and traditions
Bayshore is the route for some of Tampa’s biggest events, including the Gasparilla parade season in winter and several road races during the year. On those days, parts of Bayshore close to traffic and fill with crowds. If you live nearby, check event schedules for road closures.
Nearby
Hyde Park’s shops and restaurants are a short walk inland from the northern end. Davis Islands is just across the water from the northern section. Several small waterfront parks sit along the route.
Who it suits
- South Tampa residents looking for a daily walk or run.
- Newcomers who want to explore a beautiful stretch of the city.
- Anyone training for a race on a flat, scenic course.
Before you go
- Bring water and sun protection; there is little shade.
- Avoid midday in summer and head indoors if thunder starts.
- Check for event closures on weekends.
- Parking is limited on side streets; respect residential rules.
A short history
Bayshore Boulevard has been one of Tampa’s signature streets for more than a century. The balustrade along the water was built to protect the shoreline and give the boulevard its elegant look, and the large houses facing the bay were built by some of the city’s wealthiest families in the early 20th century. Many of those homes still stand, mixed with newer condos and townhouses.
Today the boulevard is also a symbol of how Tampa lives outdoors. On a cool winter morning you will see runners training for races, parents with strollers, retirees walking dogs and cyclists heading toward downtown. For a newcomer, walking Bayshore at sunrise or sunset is one of the quickest ways to feel at home in the city.
Walking it in stages
You do not need to cover the full length at once. A short walk from the downtown end toward Hyde Park passes the best views of the city skyline. A longer outing heads south toward the quieter southern stretch near Gandy Boulevard, where the crowds thin out.
Common mistakes
The most common mistake is setting out at noon in July without water. The second is stopping suddenly in the middle of the sidewalk on a busy morning. The third is parking in residential spots that are restricted.
Frequently asked questions
How long is Bayshore Boulevard?
The waterfront sidewalk is about 4.5 miles long.
Can you bike on Bayshore?
Yes, using the bike lanes where available and riding carefully on shared sections.
When is the best time to walk Bayshore?
Early morning and around sunset, especially in the hotter months.
For another waterfront walk, see The Tampa Riverwalk: A Newcomer’s Guide. For living nearby, read Living in South Tampa: Hyde Park, Bayshore and the Peninsula.