Weedon Island Preserve
Explore 3,190 acres of diverse ecosystems, kayak mangrove tunnels, hike boardwalks, and discover rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Weedon Island Preserve
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 3,190 acres of diverse ecosystems, kayak mangrove tunnels, hike boardwalks, and discover rich history.
"A beautiful, peaceful escape with unique mangrove kayaking and scenic trails."
Kayak Tide Check Essential
Always check tide charts before kayaking! Low tide can strand you. :kayak:
Bring Water & Bug Spray
Stay hydrated and protected from mosquitos, especially on natural trails. :droplet: :bug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mangrove Tunnels
Paddling Trails
Glide through serene mangrove tunnels, a unique Florida kayaking experience. Peaceful and visually stunning.
Boardwalk Trails
Various trailheads
Explore miles of elevated boardwalks winding through diverse ecosystems. Great for walking and nature observation.
Observation Tower
End of a boardwalk trail
Climb for panoramic views of the preserve and surrounding Tampa Bay. A rewarding vista after a hike.
Cultural & Natural History Center
Main visitor center
Discover the rich history and diverse ecosystems of the preserve, including ancient artifacts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tides for Kayaking
Trail Variety & Bug Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak Tide Check Essential
Always check tide charts before kayaking! Low tide can strand you.
Bring Water & Bug Spray
Stay hydrated and protected from mosquitos, especially on natural trails. :droplet: :bug:
Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy this beautiful preserve without an entry fee. Parking is also free! :moneywithwings:
Explore Both Trail Types
Experience the boardwalks and the more natural, rustic Boy Scout trails. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak Tide Check Essential
Always check tide charts before kayaking! Low tide can strand you.
Bring Water & Bug Spray
Stay hydrated and protected from mosquitos, especially on natural trails. :droplet: :bug:
Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy this beautiful preserve without an entry fee. Parking is also free! :moneywithwings:
Explore Both Trail Types
Experience the boardwalks and the more natural, rustic Boy Scout trails. :hiking_boot:
Visitor Center History
Don't miss the 3-story center with a 1400-year-old canoe and local history exhibits. :museum:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Weedon Island Preserve's natural beauty, extensive boardwalks, and free admission. Many highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the unique experience of kayaking through mangrove tunnels. Some mention challenges with parking during peak hours and the presence of bugs on natural trails, but overall, it's considered a highly recommended natural escape.
"So beautiful and way above my expectations.the boardwalks are so nice and i appreciate them for making such a long mangrove walk. can't wait to come back!"
Julia
"I had a great time visiting this park. The entrance is free, which is a huge plus, and the overall experience was just great. It was a beautiful day, and I really enjoyed walking around and taking in the sights. The restrooms were clean, which is always a relief when you're out and about. The only hiccup was finding parking; it was a bit tough to secure a spot since we arrived around noon. But overall, I highly recommend checking this place out!"
Cesar Martinez
"My husband and I love to find new trails to walk. I came across this place in my search and I’m so glad I did! We will definitely be back.
Parking is free. When you first pull into Weedon preserve. You will drive about a mile or two before you come up on the first option for parking. You will see a gravel like area for a few cars to park at which will also have signage stating walking trail. These are the natural trails. They’re called north and south Boy Scout trails. These are beautiful natural trails. You will walk through trees on either side of you in nice cleared trail. You will walk over little ground bridges that add something fun to these trails.We walked both north and south trail and it was about 2 miles of trails. We do think that during rainy season these trails could be flooded in some areas. The bugs will also be pretty bad on these trails during the rainy seasons and hot Florida weather. We are here in March and it was absolutely beautiful this morning when we went.
Once you exit these trails you will come across signage stating the direction of the other trails . We continued to follow those signs to the board walk trails. You will come up to an area that starts the boardwalk trails/paved walking trail. The boardwalk trails are beautiful! They sit a few feet above ground. They wind you in and out of beautiful trees and at times have areas to walk out to water views. Because this preserve has a lot to explore, most of the time we were on the trails alone. Occasionally walking by people, but most of the time we were enjoying the peaceful outdoor outdoors alone. We went around 9am.
Eventually, we reached signs stating the direction to the information center. Once inside we were greeted by employees who give us information on the property and what all was inside this information center. This is a three-story building that has so much history. They even have a 1400 year-old canoe on display that they dug up on property. There is also a really cool walk-through exhibit that we did not expect to come across. Inside this building are the only bathrooms on property, a little gift shop with trinkets and a water fountain and water bottle fill station. They do not sell any water or drinks on property so make sure you bring your own.
Once we left the information center, we saw signs directing us to the Lookout tower. This trail was a short amount of boardwalk that eventually led to a three story tower. You could climb to the top to get views of the surrounding area.
My husband and I ended up exploring this whole property. The north and south Boy Scout trails were about 2 miles and rest of the boardwalk trails and information center were about 3 miles so in all we walked a little over 5 miles. You can walk as little or as much as you want on this property. Parking and everything is free so it’s such a great way to spend the day. They had a few areas with picnic tables if you choose to bring lunch and just enjoy the Florida outdoors.
Don’t forget your water and bug spray! We also Saw in other reviews that parking was difficult, but we did go in the morning at 9 AM, parked by the natural trails so we didn’t have this same issue. We were the only car parked in those few parking spots when we arrived.
No pets allowed at Weedon preserve."
Nicole Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Weedon Island Preserve is conveniently located less than 20 minutes north of downtown St. Pete and under 30 minutes west of downtown Tampa. It's easily accessible by car.
Yes, parking is available and free. There are multiple parking areas, including spots near the natural trails and the boardwalk trailheads. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure a spot, especially on weekends.
Information on public transportation options to Weedon Island Preserve is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access.
From downtown St. Petersburg, head north on I-275 and take exit 32 for Gandy Boulevard. Continue on Gandy Boulevard and turn right onto Weedon Island Preserve Road. Follow signs for parking.
Yes, Weedon Island Preserve is a short drive from downtown St. Petersburg and other Tampa Bay area attractions, making it a great addition to a day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Weedon Island Preserve offers free admission, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination for nature lovers.
The preserve is generally open from sunrise to sunset. The Cultural & Natural History Center has specific operating hours, so it's best to check the official Pinellas County Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
While you can bring your own kayak or paddleboard and use the free launch sites, kayak rentals and guided tours are available through local outfitters like ECOmersion Kayak. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
No, the kayak launch points at Weedon Island Preserve are free to use, adding to the preserve's accessibility for paddlers.
Yes, fishing is permitted in designated areas of Weedon Island Preserve. You can fish from the pier or by kayak.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Weedon Island Preserve offers a variety of trails, including extensive boardwalks that wind through the preserve and natural, unpaved trails like the North and South Boy Scout Trails. The boardwalks offer easier walking and water views, while the natural trails provide a more immersive woodland experience.
The boardwalk trails, combined with other paths, can extend for several miles, allowing for a substantial walk. One reviewer mentioned walking over 5 miles to explore the entire property, including the boardwalks and natural trails.
You can spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, gopher tortoises, and potentially dolphins in the waterways. It's a great spot for birdwatching and observing native Florida fauna.
Absolutely! With its diverse coastal habitats, Weedon Island Preserve is a prime location for birdwatching, attracting numerous species of wading birds, shorebirds, and migratory birds.
No, pets are not allowed at Weedon Island Preserve to help protect the native wildlife and delicate ecosystems.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Weedon Island Preserve does not have on-site restaurants or food vendors. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for a picnic.
Yes, there are picnic tables available within the preserve, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
You'll find a variety of dining options in nearby St. Petersburg, a short drive from the preserve. From casual cafes to seafood restaurants, there are plenty of choices.
The Cultural & Natural History Center has a water fountain and a water bottle refill station, but no drinks are sold on-site. It's essential to bring your own water.
The St. Pete area offers a diverse culinary scene, with popular choices including fresh seafood, Cuban cuisine, and a growing number of farm-to-table restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The mangrove tunnels offer unique photographic opportunities, especially during golden hour. The observation tower provides panoramic shots, and the boardwalks are great for capturing wildlife and scenic landscapes.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for wildlife photography. For landscape shots, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so it's advisable to check with the park management if you plan on professional shoots.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing atmosphere. Golden hour is particularly magical for the mangrove tunnels.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with Pinellas County Parks for current policies regarding drone operation within the preserve to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Cultural & Natural History Center offers engaging exhibits that can captivate younger minds, including the ancient canoe. Consider a shorter walk on the boardwalks to keep little legs from getting too tired. The observation tower can be an exciting destination for kids, offering a sense of adventure and a unique perspective of the preserve.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
Kayaking through the mangrove tunnels offers a unique and personal experience, allowing you to connect with the environment at your own pace.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
While some visitors have reported catching smaller fish like needlefish, the allure is often the chance to fish in the diverse aquatic environments of Tampa Bay. The preserve's shallow flats and mangrove edges can be productive areas for various species. For those who enjoy fishing from a kayak, Weedon Island is an excellent choice. You can paddle to more secluded spots and explore different fishing grounds.
Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before your visit. While the focus is often on nature observation and paddling, the fishing opportunities add another dimension to the preserve's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Kayaking and Paddling Adventures
Many visitors recommend renting kayaks or booking tours with local outfitters like ECOmersion Kayak to fully explore these unique aquatic trails. The preserve offers a designated paddling trail, often marked with numbered signs, to help guide kayakers through the approximately 4-mile loop. Beyond the iconic mangrove tunnels, paddlers can also explore the open waters of Tampa Bay and the preserve's shallow flats.
The preserve provides free launch points, making it accessible for those who bring their own kayaks or paddleboards. Key Takeaways for Paddlers:
* Tide Awareness: Always check tide charts before launching.
* Rental Options: ECOmersion Kayak is a popular choice for rentals and tours.
* Free Access: Bring your own kayak/paddleboard for free launch.
* Wildlife Sightings: Keep an eye out for dolphins and various bird species.
Hiking and Nature Trails
In addition to the boardwalks, the preserve features natural, unpaved trails, such as the North and South Boy Scout Trails.
Trail Highlights:
* Boardwalks: Paved, elevated paths for easy walking and scenic views.
* Natural Trails: Rustic, unpaved paths through woodlands.
* Trail Length: Options range from short walks to over 5-mile explorations.
* Wildlife Viewing: Excellent opportunities for spotting birds and other native animals.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The preserve's history is deeply intertwined with the natural environment. Exhibits explore how people and nature have shaped this coastal landscape over millennia.
Visitors can learn about the various ecosystems present, from saltwater marshes to upland forests, and the importance of conservation efforts in preserving these habitats. The center provides valuable context for the natural beauty you encounter, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Historical Insights:
* Indigenous History: Learn about the native peoples who lived here.
* Ancient Artifacts: See a 1400-year-old canoe.
* Ecosystem Education: Understand the preserve's diverse natural environments.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit