Maybe you’re reading this with no idea where Apollo Beach is located in Florida.

Maybe you know exactly where it is and you are, in fact, seeking the best things to do there.

Whichever is you, I have to say that Apollo Beach is a hidden gem.

Where Is Apollo Beach, FL Located?

I’m glad you asked. Apollo Beach is just south of Tampa, FL on Tampa Bay—directly east from St. Petersburg across the bay.

Basically, it’s nestled between Tampa Bay and I-75, about 20-30 minutes to Tampa and 34-45 minutes to Sarasota, depending on traffic and which part of town.

Funny enough, I used to live in Sarasota, and had no idea Apollo Beach existed till a friend took me there once. Even then, it was a cold day and a very quick stop at what is now the Apollo Beach Nature Preserve. (I’ll share more on that below!) But, back then, the nature preserve was a bare, sandy spot under construction. And that’s about all I remember.

Is Apollo Beach a Nice Area?

Fast forward to today and I would say YES.

My husband and I are now the owners of a 1959 Mid Century Modern house on a canal in Apollo Beach—that is now a short-term rental property (currently managed by a property management company).

CHECK OUT our Airbnb here.

In the first half of 2023, we spent a collective 9 weeks living in Apollo Beach while renovating the house. Honestly, it started to feel like we lived there for real as we acclimated to the area.

This “area” has a retro Florida vibe, with a mix of home styles ranging from Mid Century Modern (like ours) to brand new construction, from Spanish to coastal, and more. Recently, we learned that our house was one of the first built along the canals after they were newly dug out in the late 1950s.

But, I digress.

Of course, traffic is busier during peak season (December – March), but overall, Apollo Beach has a more laid back pace than the larger cities along the Gulf.

Within 10 minutes, you’ll find two Publix, a Winn Dixie, Dollar General, local restaurants, and a few chain fast food spots. Nearby Riverview and Brandon offer even more conveniences.

From the water, it’s an even faster trip to anywhere along Tampa Bay. And that’s one of Apollo Beach’s prime selling points. You can live or vacation on the water for less and still enjoy easy access to those bigger, more popular destinations.

Now, there’s nothing wrong with popular. But, if you’re more like me — seeking out those hidden gems — you’ve come to the right place.

Let me share a few places I think you’re gonna love, right in Apollo Beach.

Best Place to See Manatees: Manatee Viewing Center

If you visit Apollo Beach between November 1 and April 15, the TECO Manatee Viewing Center is a MUST. And, it’s free.

Located adjacent to the Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach, the center is now a designated manatee sanctuary, because the warm, clean water discharged from the plant attracts manatees by the hundreds when colder, winter waters reach Florida.

Did you know? Manatees can’t survive in water below 68°F. So, they seek warmer waters — like springs — in the winter. The power station in Apollo Beach offers a unique, warm sanctuary for them to thrive.

We visited the day after Christmas in 2022 and saw hundreds of manatees gathered in the water between the center and the plant. I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to see that many!

At the center, we were also able to touch sting rays in a shallow pool of water, and there were activities for kids — which I can’t speak to because I don’t have children. But, I encourage you to visit the center’s website to learn more!

Florida Aquarium’s Conservation Campus

Right next to the Manatee Viewing Center, the Florida Aquarium operates a Coral Conservation Center and a Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center.

Note: This campus is also only open between November and April.

I mistakenly thought it was open year-round, so haven’t been able to visit yet. But you can bet both are on my list next time we’re in town in the winter!

You can learn more about the conservation campus here.

Apollo Beach Nature Preserve

While you can’t swim at the Apollo Beach Nature Preserve due to a rip tide warning, you can access its beautiful strip of beach — and fishing is allowed.

Other perks? Parking is free, although it fills up fast around peak times like sunset. The view of Tampa Bay from the observation tower is worth the trek up. It’s dog-friendly. And, the walking trails lead to more secluded sections of sand, if that’s more your thing.

EG Simmons Park & Campground in Florida

For just $2 per car, entrance to EG Simmons Park is highly worth it —whether you’re looking to fish, kayak, have a picnic, lounge on the beach, or launch your boat. The park even includes two playgrounds for the kiddos and it’s dog-friendly.

Note: the $2 parking covers up to 8 people per vehicle. The boat launch is $5 extra. And camping and rentals cost extra, too.

Bahia Beach in Ruskin, Florida

Though not a large beach, Bahia is white and sandy, with a gorgeous view of Tampa Bay. It’s also dog-friendly!

Located at Little Harbor in Ruskin, it looks like a gated community, but you can drive right in. Parking is $5 per vehicle, per hour.

Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre

Full disclosure, I also have not personally experienced the drive-in. Yet. I think we’ll give it a try in the cooler months as well, so we can leave the windows shut and not worry about bugs.

The drive-in has been around for over 50 years — its first movie being “Singing in the Rain” in 1952.

According to the website, the owners take being a “family” drive-in very seriously, and I can vouch for seeing the place VERY full on movie nights.

Technically, the theatre is not in Apollo Beach, but Ruskin is so close it feels like they are one and the same — being two unincorporated, census-designated places in Hillsborough County, FL. From our house, you can get to the theatre in less than 10 minutes.

Okay, on to the food.

Apollo Meats in Apollo Beach, Florida

If you’re a carnivore, this shop is the place for you. Open Tuesday – Saturday, Apollo Meats is THE destination for possibly the best meat of your life.

Their steak fillets? Best I’ve ever had. No question. And, we’ve purchased fillets here multiple times. The quality is consistent.

Of course, fillets are just one of MANY meat options. Rib eye. Ground beef. Lamb. Bison. Sausages.

Love seafood? Meeee toooo. Apollo Meats has the good stuff. The fresh stuff. You can’t go wrong with ANY of the options, but I recommend the shrimp.

You will be amazed at how much meaty and seafoody goodness is packed into this shop. It’s a see to believe sort of situation.

Pro tip: Go on Tuesday morning for the best, freshest selection.

Ybor Grille in Ruskin, Florida

Authentic Cuban food. Need I say more?

The Tampa area — especially Ybor City — is known for its Cuban cuisine, and long-standing places like The Columbia are highly recommended. Heck, I’ve been to The Columbia and absolutely recommend. (It’s been running since 1905, if that tells you anything.)

But, don’t sleep on Ybor Grille — conveniently located within walking distance of the Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre. Yes, it’s in Ruskin, but again… it’s basically Apollo Beach. (At least, that’s how it feels.)

I’m pretty sure you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but here are things we’ve ordered and loved: Cuban sandwich, Taste of Ybor, and an Ybor Bowl with shredded pork. Give me anything with their yellow rice, black beans, and plantains, and I’m a happy girl.

Sunset Bar & Grill in Ruskin, Florida

It took us TOO long to try this place. Maybe because it’s a bit more out of the way in Ruskin. And by out of the way, I mean a 15 minute drive vs. less than 10 minutes. But well worth it!

Sunset Bar & Grill is located at Little Harbor, right next to Bahia Beach!

Go here for the BEST water view. And, if you go at dinnertime, you’ll be rewarded with the best sunset view. Parking is validated, too.

Say yes to the outdoor seating. It’s right on the beach. You can see the St. Pete skyline across the water. What’s not to love?!

Food-wise, the menu is large. Something for everyone, and it’s satisfying. While I’m a sucker for a view, the food did not disappoint either.

If you’re debating between someplace like Circles or here… let me tell you, it’s no debate. I’d pick Sunset Bar & Grill over Circles in Apollo Beach ANY day. (I only linked the website for comparison!)

Apollo Beach Diner

For breakfast, brunch, or lunch, you can’t go wrong with Apollo Beach Diner.

Located in the Apollo Beach Shopping Center, it has that retro diner feel with a HUGE menu. I’m a breakfast any time of day girl, and I wish they were open for dinner!

The diner is open from 7am to 2pm every day but Tuesday (when it’s closed). From what we’ve observed, it stays pretty busy during peak breakfast and lunch hours, so be prepared to wait or make a reservation — especially right around noon.

The Vineyards Trattoria & Pizzaria in Apollo Beach

Is Italian food your go-to?

We’ve eaten at The Vineyards twice and can vouch that the food tastes authentic. Even John agrees, and his grandparents are Italian!

The menu is substantial. Pasta is fresh. Portions are hardy. And, it stays busy. We recommend reservations for dinner, unless you like to eat early.

Basically, we haven’t tried something we DIDN’T like, so go with your gut and order whatever sounds good. If you have to eat dairy free (like me), don’t worry. There are options for you, too!

American Honey Creamery, Apollo Beach

This locally owned, locally sourced ice cream shop is a must. The ice cream is handmade and the flavors are insanely good! Plus, they offer dairy free options (which makes this dairy intolerant girl so, so happy!).

Grab a scoop, sit outside, and snap a photo with the cow (statue) named Polly.

Oh, and if you’re not feeling ice cream, American Honey also offers coffee beverages, other drinks, baked goods, and breakfast items. (Check out the menu here.) And, they stay open fairly late!

And there you have it… some of our favorites in Apollo Beach.

If you have any questions about the area, ask away in the comments.

And, if you’re interested in a visit and need a place to stay, click here to check out our Mid Century Modern vacation rental located on a canal with access to Tampa Bay.

Happy travels 🙂