Weedon Island Preserve
1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
Easiest access to Weedon Island Preserve is from San Martin Avenue NE via Gandy Blvd. or 83rd Avenue North. The preserve totals 31.90 acres on the west shore of Tampa Bay. Boardwalks along with sand, dirt, and paved trails. Opens 30 minutes before sunrise. Closes 30 minutes after sunset.
- Main loop is 1.7 miles of handicap-accessible boardwalk and paved paths.
- Boy Scout Loop is a 1 mile trail through flatwoods, maritime and xeric hammocks.
- Expect both sunny and shady trails.
- Boardwalks take visitors through mangrove forests and tidal flats with views of saltwater ponds.
- 45-foot observation tower on the west boardwalk loop. You can see the preserve, nearby islands, and the cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg from the top.
- Cultural and Natural History Center has exhibits, restrooms, and a gift shop.
- Water fountain at start of the boardwalk trail and inside the Center.
- Plenty of on-site parking in the lot adjacent to the Center.
- Take bug spray, sunscreen, water, and a hat.
- Pay attention to tides and rainfall. Some trails are very muddy when wet.
- Picnic areas throughout the trails in shady areas.
- Plenty of water birds, possums, armadillos, and gopher turtles call Weedon Island home.
- There's a 4 mile self-guided kayak/canoe paddling trail.
- Kayak rentals available at the park. There's a launch site and cleanup station.
- Other trails exist throughout the preserve, but they are rougher.
IMPORTANT:
This is a protected preserve. No dogs, horses or domesticated animals allowed. No bikes, motorcycles or ATVs on the trails. NO SMOKING. NO WEAPONS. All plants in the preserve are protected.
Photo credits and copyright: This Old Runner
Photo credit: Google Maps