Gulf access or beach an hr or so north of Tampa?
 

I see some wildlife refuges north of Weeki Wachee Springs. Is there a public place near there to get next to the Gulf, dip toes in?

There's really no beaches (that I can think of anyway) in the "curve" of the state. I've snorkeled in Crystal River and friends scallop at Steinhatchee. Cedar Key is about 2 hours up and is an interesting little town, but water access is mostly via boat not beach.

There may be public boat ramps for fishermen, but you'd probably be dipping your toes in river or marsh vs. ocean.

Ha, thanks, starrs. That's kind of what the map looked like. Maybe I can go to the nature reserve and look around.

What month is your trip?

If you want to get on the water -
http://www.manateetoursusa.com/airboats.html

Take a look at the picture anyway to see the (non-beach) surroundings.

Or kayak -
http://www.manateetoursusa.com/kayaking.html

Or scallop in July & September -
http://www.manateetoursusa.com/scalloping.html

Pine Island Park http://www.hernandocounty.us/parks_r...tail.asp?Key=1

We have gone 2-3 three times when visiting relatives in Spring Hill. Smallish sandy beach there. But you have to understand it is not at all like the brilliant white sand and clear water that one will see at the beaches further south (e.g. St. Pete/Clearwater and below). As someone noted, this area of the coast is more "marshy" than "beachy". But still, if you are in the area anyway and want to go to a beach that is the place I would recommend. My young kids always liked it; built sand castles, went swimming, etc.

I'm really just starved for a sight and smell of the sea, don't need sunbathing or anything.

This is a last minute trip, tickets bought yesterday and flying out this morning. Just there for a couple of days, will have a rental car and possibly a few hours at our disposal.

Thanks so much.

We ended up getting out to Pine Island, the perfect spot just up the road through the wildlife refuge, in time to see the sun set over the Gulf. Thanks so much, LarryBee.

We hope to get down that way soon and try some of those tips, starrs. Thank you.