Ben T. Davis Beach
A convenient Tampa Bay beach with picnic spots, a scenic trail, and boat ramps, perfect for active days and family outings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Ben T. Davis Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A convenient Tampa Bay beach with picnic spots, a scenic trail, and boat ramps, perfect for active days and family outings.
"This underrated beach is awesome, and more than that, a very organized picnic spot with shades."
Pack a Fitted Sheet
Use a fitted sheet with corners secured by heavy items for a wind-proof beach blanket. :beachwithumbrella:
Secure Your Towel
Fold towel corners into the sand to keep them from blowing away. :windblowingface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Picnic Paradise
Designated picnic areas
Organized picnic spots with shades, BBQ grills, and playgrounds make it ideal for family outings.
Scenic Causeway Trail
Courtney Campbell Causeway
Enjoy a long, paved trail perfect for walking, jogging, or biking with beautiful bay views.
Shark Tooth Hunting
Shoreline
While not as renowned as Venice Beach, keep an eye out for small shark teeth washed ashore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Fitted Sheet
Use a fitted sheet with corners secured by heavy items for a wind-proof beach blanket. :beachwithumbrella:
Secure Your Towel
Fold towel corners into the sand to keep them from blowing away. :windblowingface:
Bring Beach Toys
Playground available, but extra toys enhance family fun. :child:
Hydrate Well
Midday sun can be intense; carry plenty of water. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Fitted Sheet
Use a fitted sheet with corners secured by heavy items for a wind-proof beach blanket. :beachwithumbrella:
Secure Your Towel
Fold towel corners into the sand to keep them from blowing away. :windblowingface:
Bring Beach Toys
Playground available, but extra toys enhance family fun. :child:
Hydrate Well
Midday sun can be intense; carry plenty of water. :droplet:
Respect Beach Rules
Avoid bringing glass containers to protect the environment. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ben T. Davis Beach is praised as an underrated gem for picnics and exercise, offering a scenic trail and family-friendly amenities. While the water can be sandy, its warmth and the beach's organized facilities make it a great local spot. Some visitors note the need for stricter enforcement against glass on the beach.
"Great place to exercise! The causeway stretches all the way across Tampa Bay to Clearwater and it's approximately 10 MI there's a bike trail jogging path / walking path there goes across there that is excellent for exercising clearing your head meditating just or just enjoying the breeze but in the middle of the day between 12:00 and 4:00 it can be brutal."
Veterans Moving Help
"Less populated but sufficient fun. Everybody run to Clearwater for beach near Tampa but this underrated beach is awesome. And more than that very organized picnic spot with shades. Enough barbecue spots. Playground for kids! Shower spots and restrooms. One of the best picnic spot near Tampa. The water seem to be little sandy but the water tend to be warm. If you plan to dive in sea water and clean later, the sandy water does not matter! Very convenient parking spot. If you are coming first time to Tampa for beach, then go to Clearwater. But once you have visited it, then BTD Beach is best option for picnic day on the beach especially when you have kids. If you are fanatic of surfing, the also the waves are great. For me I simply loved my picnic day in the beach with my kids and I am still loving it!"
Dipesh Dhakal
"Love going here taking a nice morning walk , love walking on the bridge over the water , plenty of parking , a clean restroom, and long trail to walk . , you can bring a chair and relax, bbq grills available, and plenty of picnic areas , o a good day, you can see dolphins and mammals."
Redonda Murray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ben T. Davis Beach is conveniently located on the Courtney Campbell Causeway in Tampa, Florida. It's easily accessible by car and offers a scenic drive across Tampa Bay. Many visitors use it as a stop on their way to other destinations like Clearwater or Daytona Beach.
Public transportation options directly to Ben T. Davis Beach might be limited. It's best to check local Tampa Bay transit schedules for bus routes that may get you close to the causeway, though driving is the most common method of access.
The beach has dedicated parking areas along the Courtney Campbell Causeway. Simply follow the signs for beach access and parking. The trail for walking and biking is also directly accessible from the parking areas.
Absolutely! The Courtney Campbell Causeway features a dedicated bike and jogging path that runs alongside the beach, making it a popular spot for cyclists and runners.
Yes, the beach sometimes hosts community events like car meetups 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ben T. Davis Beach typically has paid parking, but entry to the beach itself is usually free. The parking fees help maintain the facilities.
Parking hours can vary, but they generally align with daylight hours. It's advisable to check local signage or Tampa Parks and Recreation for the most up-to-date information on parking availability and hours.
Parking fees are usually modest and can range from a few dollars per hour or a daily rate. It's best to have cash or a card ready, as payment methods can differ.
Parking at Ben T. Davis Beach is typically on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early, especially on weekends or holidays, is recommended to secure a spot.
Yes, it's important to note that glass containers are prohibited on the beach to ensure safety. Visitors are encouraged to bring reusable containers and be mindful of trash disposal.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
The beach offers a range of amenities including picnic shelters, BBQ grills, restrooms, showers, and a playground for children, making it a great spot for a family picnic.
The water at Ben T. Davis Beach can be a bit sandy, but it's generally warm and suitable for swimming. It's a good option for a quick dip or for families with children.
Yes, fishing is permitted at Ben T. Davis Beach, and there are boat ramps available, making it a popular spot for anglers.
Clean restrooms and shower facilities are available, which are very convenient for beachgoers, especially after swimming or a long day out.
While less crowded than some other popular beaches in the area, Ben T. Davis Beach can get busy on weekends and holidays. Weekday visits offer a more serene experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants located near Ben T. Davis Beach, particularly along the Courtney Campbell Causeway. Whiskey Joe's is mentioned as a spot for drinks and apps after events.
Absolutely! Ben T. Davis Beach is well-equipped with organized picnic areas and BBQ grills, making it a fantastic spot for a cookout or a leisurely picnic lunch.
While there might be concessions available, it's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for picnics. Some social media posts mention bringing your own snacks and drinks for events.
You can find various dining options along the Courtney Campbell Causeway and in the surrounding Tampa area. It's a good idea to check local listings for restaurants that suit your taste and budget.
Yes, BBQ grills are available at Ben T. Davis Beach, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy grilling outdoors.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach offers beautiful views of Tampa Bay, especially during sunrise and sunset. The causeway trail also provides scenic backdrops for photos.
Yes, the beach's location on the bay makes it a great spot for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset views over the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or the Tampa Parks and Recreation department regarding any restrictions on drone operation in the area.
The combination of the beach, the bay, and the causeway trail offers diverse photographic possibilities, from serene water shots to active lifestyle imagery.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography at Ben T. Davis Beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏃♀️ Active Individuals & Fitness Enthusiasts
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit