Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN TAMPA
Thinking of bringing your bike to Tampa for a vacation? You’re making a smart move. This Florida Gulf Coast city is flat, sunny, and packed with scenic routes made for cycling — think breezy bayside paths, leafy greenways, and long rail-trails perfect for day-long tours. Whether you’re a casual rider, a bike-packing enthusiast, or just here for a cruise and a Cuban sandwich, Tampa has the kind of laid-back, pedal-friendly vibe that turns every ride into a mini-adventure. Let’s dive into the best places to roll!
Biking culture and starting spots in Tampa
Tampa might surprise you with how bikeable it is. Thanks to a mix of public investment, local cycling advocates, and its naturally flat terrain, the city has become a hotspot for two-wheeled travel. Whether you’re rolling solo, with the family, or part of a weekend group ride, there’s a welcoming vibe and plenty of places to start your journey.
If you're flying in or not bringing your own bike, check out Coast Bike Share. These turquoise blue bikes are located all over downtown, Hyde Park, Ybor City, and along the Riverwalk. Or for longer touring rides, rent from shops like City Bike Tampa or University Bicycle Center — both offer hybrids, road bikes, and even e-bikes for those hot days.
Neighborhoods and areas to kick off your ride
Downtown Tampa: Central hub with direct access to bike lanes, the Riverwalk, and Curtis Hixon Park.
Ybor City: Historic and colorful with lots of culture and easy trail access via Nuccio Parkway.
Hyde Park: Leafy streets, cute cafes, and proximity to Bayshore Boulevard.
Seminole Heights: Chill neighborhood with breweries and access to the Hillsborough River Greenway.
Channelside: A growing area near the port with smooth paths and modern waterfront views.
Tampa’s bike scene is casual but growing fast. Weekly social rides and events pop up often, so check in with local groups like SWFBUD or Tampa Critical Mass if you want to ride with a crew while you’re in town.
Best waterfront and city trails
Nothing beats cycling by the water, and Tampa nails it with its network of coastal and riverside routes. Whether you’re in it for the views, the breeze, or just the easy riding, these paths are smooth, well-maintained, and offer plenty of places to stop, snack, and snap a selfie.
Must-ride city and bayfront trails
Tampa Riverwalk: 2.6-mile paved trail along the Hillsborough River through downtown. Great for easy cruises with stops at museums, food trucks, and parks.
Bayshore Boulevard: One of the longest continuous sidewalks in the U.S. — nearly 5 miles of open bay views and luxury home sightseeing. Perfect for sunset rides.
Selmon Greenway: Connects downtown to the Channel District with urban vibes and direct access to the Riverwalk and Harbour Island.
Courtney Campbell Trail: 9.5-mile path that runs alongside the causeway with stunning views of Old Tampa Bay. Ideal for intermediate riders and beach day detours.
Upper Tampa Bay Trail: A 7.25-mile paved trail through suburban woods, creeks, and wetlands. Super peaceful and popular for birdwatchers too.
These trails offer a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. Most are accessible from downtown and have trailheads with bathrooms, water stations, and shade — key ingredients for a good ride in Florida. If you're out midday, wear sun protection and take breaks often — the Florida sun means business.
Want to mix in some culture? Hit the Tampa Museum of Art mid-ride, or detour through Curtis Hixon Park where there’s often live music or a food truck rally going down.
Long-distance touring and beach rides
If you're planning to go the distance, Tampa offers several awesome bike touring options that link you with the region's natural parks, beach towns, and rural landscapes. These routes are perfect for a full day of riding or even a short overnight tour with the right gear.
Top long-distance bike routes
Suncoast Trail: A 42-mile paved trail that runs north from Tampa through Pasco and Hernando counties. Scenic and well-shaded, great for endurance rides.
Tampa to Clearwater Beach (via Courtney Campbell): This 20–25 mile route is a Gulf Coast classic. Start downtown and finish with your feet in the sand — just bring a lock and your swimsuit.
Flatwoods Wilderness Park Loop: A 7-mile loop in New Tampa with additional connecting trails. Ideal for nature lovers looking for a shaded ride away from traffic.
Pinellas Trail Extension: Part of the 75+ mile Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail that runs through St. Petersburg, Dunedin, and Tarpon Springs — all bikeable from Tampa with bridges and ferry combos.
Alafia River State Park: Best for off-road and mountain bikers — epic singletrack trails, technical challenges, and forest scenery just 45 minutes from downtown Tampa.
For long tours, prep is key. Always bring plenty of water, snacks, a patch kit, and a backup charger for your phone. Florida weather can change quickly, and those Gulf Coast showers don’t mess around. Early morning departures are the move — less heat, fewer cars, and more wildlife.
One underrated benefit of Tampa bike touring? The beach-town energy at the end of many routes. Whether it’s the tiki bars of Treasure Island or the low-key charm of Dunedin, post-ride vibes here are hard to beat.
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