Tarpon Springs, FL: Where to Live, Play & Eat

Tarpon Springs community guide

Location of Tarpon Springs, FL

Tarpon Springs is on the Gulf in northwestern Pinellas County. The area borders Lake Tarpon, one of the largest fishing lakes in the area. Tarpon Springs also has a series of bayous that feed off the Anclote River and empty into the Gulf.

Tarpon Springs on the map

Real estate options in Tarpon Springs, FL

Tarpon Springs you’ll find an eclectic mix of housing options from waterfront mansions to condos to single family homes and historic bungalows.

Homes for sale in Tarpon Springs, FL

Best things to do in Tarpon Springs, FL

Water is the centerpiece of Tarpon Springs, with the bayous and Anclote River popular for fishing, boating and other recreational activities. Known today as the sponge capital of the world, Tarpon Springs is one of the largest Greek communities outside of Greece. The atmosphere here is still heavily Greek with family-owned restaurants and boutiques along the sponge docks along the Anclote River. The downtown area is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Parks in Tarpon Springs, FL

The tight knit community is full of parks. Many include playgrounds, walking trails, shaded benches and picnic tables.

A few parks in Tarpon Springs, FL:

  • Fred Howard Park (beach, fishing, playground, picnic shelters)
  • North Anclote River Nature Park (shaded trails, playground)
  • Tarpon Springs Splash Pad (splash pad, covered seating)
  • Sunset Beach (playground, boat ramp, volleyball)

Biking & walking trails in Tarpon Springs, FL

There are several trails in the parks along Tarpon Springs that can also be used for walking, jogging and biking. These include:

  • Pinellas Trail
  • Fred Howard Park
  • Coastal Anclote Trail
  • Anderson Park

Places to eat in Tarpon Springs, FL

There are many options to eat in Tarpon Springs with the best located at the Sponge Docks along the river. Some of our top choices include:

  • Dimitri’s on the Water
  • Hella’s
  • Costas
  • Mama’s

Places to have fun in Tarpon Springs, FL

Besides all the outdoor activities, Tarpon Springs has a ton to do for a small town. Some activities:

  • Boat tours from the Sponge Docks
  • Replay Arcade
  • Tarpon Springs Aquarium & Animal Sanctuary
  • Spongeorama Sponge Factory

Places to shop in Tarpon Spings, FL

There are many options for shopping along Dodecanese Blvd in downtown Tarpon Springs. Some of the local stores include:

  • Gloria’s Gifts
  • Antonia’s Boutique
  • Ella’s Boutique
  • Faklis Department Store & Shoe Repair
  • Nicholas Cathedral Bookstore

There are a variety of grocery store options in Tarpon Springs including Publix, Walmart and Winn Dixie as well as local markets like Acropolis Meats.

Schools in Tarpon Springs, FL

Schools in Tarpon Springs, FL are run by the Pinellas County School District 

Elementary

  • Gulfside Elementary
  • Sunset Hills Elementary
  • Tarpon Springs Elementary
  • Tarpon Springs Fundamental

Middle

  • Paul R Smith Middle
  • Tarpon Springs Middle

High

  • Anclote High

Charter

  • St. Petersburg Collegiate High School

Private

  • All Saints Episcopal Day School
  • Plato Academy

Hospitals in Tarpon Springs, FL

AdventHealth North Pinellas is on the southern end of Tarpon Springs. There are also urgent care centers, outpatient surgery centers and doctor’s offices in the area.

Ready to move to Tarpon Springs, FL?

People love the small-town feel of Tarpon Springs. And the easy access to the Gulf is a bonus. It’s an excellent place to put down roots and enjoy all that Tampa Bay has to offer. Our real estate team, with more than 30 years working and living in Tampa Bay, is here to help you find the perfect home. Call or text us today: 813-541-5320

(813) 541-5320