Six Unforgettable Days In Florida’s Suncoast

by David Stackpole

Let’s set the scene: you’re riding along the Courtney Campbell Causeway- the palm trees lining your path have ceased and you find yourself surrounded by clear blue water and salty air. Pelicans swoop eagerly in the sunshine as you cycle along. In a few miles, you’re greeted by rocky shores lined with wading water birds, exotic and colorful. Behind and ahead of you is a group of new friends, brought together by the desire for adventure in the Florida Sun. This is just the BEGINNING of our Florida Suncoast adventure!

My name is David, I’m a guide with Wilderness Voyageurs. I’m going to tell you why the Florida Suncoast Bike Tour is an unmissable and unforgettable experience. This journey is a perfect encapsulation of everything that makes the Sunshine State so special. Florida is a tropical haven home to unique history, thriving artistic hubs, and a plethora of breathtaking plant and animal life. Not to mention extensive bike trails and paths that have earned their place in the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Hall of Fame.

Each day is another opportunity to see the natural and cultural riches of Florida. After riding out of Rocky Point and over the Courtney Campbell Causeway, the first day ends in Safety Harbor. This old resort town has reinvented itself as an artists’ escape, while sticking to its roots. The creativity is palpable, as is the relaxation.

At the heart of town is a centuries old live oak tree, a testament to the stewardship the community has committed to its natural environment in the midst of development. Dinner at the Water Oak is definitely another highlight. The menu has something for everyone, especially if you’re a seafood lover like me. But let’s be real, if you’re a seafood lover, you’re ALWAYS in luck in Florida.

Day two is all about the Pinellas Trail, which lets you explore one of the most interesting towns in Florida. The ride goes right through the city of Tarpon Springs, which was built by Greek immigrants and fueled by the sponge industry. Walking along downtown’s docks, you can still see divers hanging their sponges out to dry and smell the baklava cascading from the bakeries. You won’t want to miss a chance to get a real life loofah or sponge, and learn about the history of the town.

While you may not see any tarpons, you’re likely to see some breaches from one of Florida’s most charismatic mammals- the manatee! These gentle giants of the water take refuge in the warm springs during the winter months. The Pinellas Trail then winds through some more scenic landscapes and charming neighborhoods until you arrive at the Fenway Hotel in Dunedin. Every night the lobby is filled with sounds of local jazz musicians, and the rooftop bar welcomes the sunset over the gulf with a raucous celebration! Then, downtown and its many delicious restaurants await you.

The morning of day three starts with a detour to Clearwater beach, renowned for its miles of soft white sand and, you guessed it, clear water. The Pinellas Trail then welcomes riders into St. Petersburg, the sunniest city in America! Vitamin D aside, the eclectic art scene of St. Pete is on full display along the Pinellas trail, as local artists blend street art with the industrial outskirts of the town, painting a compelling picture of a thriving, resilient city adapting to a changing world.

There are still plenty of traditions that are honored in the city, not least of which being shuffleboard. Formerly the pastime of royalty, then cruise ship patrons, the St. Pete Shuffleboard Club is the oldest in the country. Here they keep the tradition alive AND fresh. On any given night there’s league games, lessons, and maybe a bike tour group or two! We’ll eat some Cuban inspired dishes while you try your hand at shuffleboard with your group, just don’t be surprised when it starts to get competitive and temperatures rise!

With a city as beautiful, vibrant, and large as St. Pete, it only makes sense to spend a little extra time there. The fourth day of the tour is all about checking out St. Pete and getting the chance to explore. A morning group ride highlights the St. Pete Pier, mangrove islands teeming with birdlife, grand architecture, and two banyan trees you’ll have to see to believe. In the afternoon, you get the opportunity to explore at your own pace. So you can paint the town red, dip your feet in the bay, visit some of the many local museums, or simply take it easy; there’s nothing wrong with a little rest and relaxation on vacation after all.

So far there’s been heaps of natural and cultural wonder, so how about an architectural marvel? I’m talking about the Skyway Bridge, which stands 430 feet above Tampa Bay and connects St. Pete to the southern part of Florida. A bike path takes riders to the edge of the skyway pier, where they’ll share a stunning view of the golden beamed bridge with pelicans and fisherman. The bridge is truly something to behold, and as the water chops against the pier, you’ll only just be able to make out the land on the other side of the 4 mile span.

Our journey then continues to St. Pete Beach, a winter haven with delightful coastal charm. This is a great evening for the group to enjoy their last Florida sunset together on the beach, before heading out to get some authentic and delicious cuisine from one of the local restaurants.

Our trip ends in the location that brings everything together: Fort De Soto State Park. Named after Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto, this park is composed of five barrier islands that are home to lush greenery, wildlife of the land and sea, and the fort itself. Fort De Soto was built to provide naval defense during the Spanish-American War, and the original fortification and artillery are still present today. They provide insight into the impressive military technology of the early 20th century. And did I mention the 7 miles of beautiful beaches?

Thousands of people come out on a good day to enjoy the landscapes, water, and fort, but it never feels crowded. Plus, when the conditions are just right, you can find kitesailers putting on a mesmerizing display- floating atop the water and dancing in the wind. Indeed it is just another jewel on top of the many treasures this trip has to offer.

Keep in mind, these are just SOME of the highlights from our Florida Suncoast Bike Tour. So whether it’s your first or your hundredth time in Florida, I promise there will be something you find along the way that makes you see the Sunshine State like never before. You’re sure to leave thinking about your next visit to Florida and your next bicycle vacation. I hope to see you down there!

Wilderness Voyageurs operates Inn to Inn Bicycling Vacations

If you want to experience the sights, sounds, culture, and geography of a place, what better way than from the saddle of your bike?

All Wilderness Voyageurs tours are fully supported with a SAG vehicle and include beautiful routes through stunning landscape, excellent food and accommodations, top rate equipment, and dedicated and enthusiastic guides.

Give our wonderful reservations staff a call to book your next bike tour vacation. (800) 272-4141