Explore Tampa Bay’s wild side at Weedon Island Preserve. Located on 3,190 acres in St. Petersburg, Weedon Island Preserve is home to diverse wildlife and an education center, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about Florida while also enjoying a day in nature.

At Weedon Island Preserve, there’s something for nature-lovers of all types. The preserve is particularly known for its hiking trails, which are the perfect place for tourists and locals alike to get exercise while enjoying the scenery. A one-mile trail called Boy Scout loop is ideal for a light stroll, while an additional 1.7 miles of trails are also easily accessible for anyone looking for a longer hike. The trails also included picnic benches and shady areas for hikers to take a break or cool down.

Weedon Island Preserve also includes two miles of boardwalks. These extend over the preserve’s natural ecosystem, which includes tidal flats, saltwater ponds, and mangrove forests. Visitors can often get up-close views of fish, wading birds, and other local wildlife. A 45-foot observation tower at one end of the boardwalk offers a view of the entire preserve, plus the city of St. Petersburg. If you’re only in Florida for a short visit, the observation tower allows you to soak up the entire city in a single look!

When they’re done exploring outside, visitors to Weedon Island Preserve can stop by the natural history center. This building is unique because it was designed with input from local Native Americans and includes architectural features that honor the traditions and legacy of the indigenous people of the area. The nature center features an array of exhibits about the natural and cultural history of Weedon Island. An archeology dig exhibit shares how artifacts like shards of pottery are used to learn more about the island’s prehistoric people, and another exhibit covers the more recent history of Weedon Island and even includes clips from a movie filmed on the preserve. Other exhibits give insights into the flora and fauna of the island and share how everyone can do their own small part to keep Tampa Bay’s natural ecosystems healthy and flourishing.

Admission to Weedon Island Preserve is free, though donations are appreciated. The preserve opens at 7:00 AM each morning and guests are asked to leave the preserve approximately fifteen minutes before sunset. It’s also closed on all holidays observed in Pinellas County, including Christmas and the day after Thanksgiving. Since Weedon Island Preserve is committed to maintaining the natural ecosystems, visitors should also note the preserve’s specific rules while planning their trip to Weedon Island.

If you’re planning a trip to St. Petersburg or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, stay with us at Sunshine Cozy Cottages! Our quaint, private cottages in Indian Rocks Beach are steps away from the beach and conveniently located near many Tampa Bay area attractions. We welcome you to enjoy our cute, affordable cottages as your new home away from home!

To book your stay with Sunshine Cozy Cottages, please call us at 727-595-3000 or visit us online at www.sunshinecozycottages.com.