Sports in Tampa
and the Gulf Coast
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The slower side of Florida
The Gulf Coast boasts many less-crowded world-class golf courses, so games have a gentler pace. But there are still plenty of other things to do on your Gulf Coast holiday, from tennis and horseback riding to scuba diving and fishing. You might even spot a dolphin or porpoise.
Why not take your binoculars on a Dolphin Eco Tour from the Florida Aquarium?
Golfing
Dotted all along Gulf Coast are golf courses to meet every level of challenge – there are 90 to choose from in the Tampa Bay area alone. That means there’s a Gulf Coast golf holiday to suit everyone, whatever your ability.
The distance between the Tampa Bay golf courses and the amusement parks of Orlando means these championship courses are often less crowded. Try the Bobby Jones Golf Complex. Or if you want to do some serious work on your game during your Gulf Coast golf holiday, why not stay at the La Playa Beach and Golf Resort in Naples? It comes complete with a 18 hole golf course that hosts the David Leadbetter Golf Academy.
Tennis
Just like the rest of Florida, the year-round warm weather here means there are hundreds of resort and municipal tennis courts to supply the local obsession with the sport. And if you’re looking to hone your game or play someone at an advanced level, why not stay at the Naples Grande Resort and Club? The property has 15 tennis courts and offers daily clinics run under the direction of Peter Burnash International.
Fishing
With over 600 miles of coastline, the Gulf Coast is full of fiercely debated fishing ‘hotspots’, whether you’re on a chartered boat or fishing from land. There are numerous bait shops who will outfit you with all the kit you’ll need; but the place to be is Clearwater’s Pier 60, where you can charter boats or just rent tackle. Keep your ears open, and you might overhear where the best spots are.
Sailing
The barrier islands of the Gulf Coast make it the ideal setting for leisurely sailing, and indeed, it’s one of the best ways to experience Florida’s famous sunsets. You can either be your own captain, or climb aboard one of the chartered sailing cruises.
Horseback riding
North of the Tampa Bay area is horse country, where thoroughbred farms home to champion runners occupy the green and undulating hills. You can tour most of these farms, but better yet, saddle up yourself on one of the many guided rides.
Diving
Keen divers should take a drive north to Pensacola, in the Florida ‘Panhandle’. Renowned for wreck diving, many ships have been sunk offshore, including 11 that were sunk in a hurricane during the 16th century.