Weekend Getaways from Tampa: 9 Easy Escapes for a 2–3 Day Trip
Tampa is one of the best home bases for a weekend getaway in Florida. Within a few hours, you can trade city life for Gulf Coast beaches, small-town charm, natural springs, or a romantic island escape.
Whether you’re planning a couples weekend, a quick girls’ trip, or a last-minute reset, these weekend getaways from Tampa are easy to reach and feel like a real vacation… without needing a plane ticket.
Here are some of the best weekend trips from Tampa for a 2–3 day escape.
1) Sarasota (about 1 hour)
Sarasota is the kind of getaway that feels instantly “vacation.” It’s polished, coastal, and full of options, whether you want a beach day, a great meal, or a little shopping.
Spend time at Siesta Key Beach, explore St. Armands Circle, and make dinner reservations somewhere that feels special. Sarasota is ideal for couples because it can be romantic without being overly formal.
Don’t miss: Siesta Key at sunset, St. Armands Circle, a waterfront dinner.
2) Anna Maria Island (about 1 hour 15 minutes)
Anna Maria Island is a perfect weekend getaway from Tampa if you want a slower pace. It’s charming, colorful, and full of that old-Florida beach town energy that’s harder to find these days.
This is the kind of weekend where you rent bikes, eat fresh seafood, and let the days unfold without a strict itinerary.
Don’t miss: sunset on the beach, casual seafood, a slow morning coffee run.
3) St. Petersburg (30–40 minutes)
If you want a weekend getaway without a long drive, St. Pete is one of the best options near Tampa. It has a vibrant arts scene, great restaurants, and a lively waterfront.
You can spend your day in downtown St. Pete, visit the Dalí Museum, explore the murals, and then head to St. Pete Beach for sunset.
Don’t miss: the Dalí Museum, downtown murals, sunset at the pier.
4) Clearwater Beach (45 minutes–1 hour)
Clearwater Beach is a classic for a reason. It’s one of the most popular beach destinations near Tampa, with soft white sand, calm water, and plenty of restaurants and resorts.
It’s a great weekend getaway for couples who want convenience, especially if you want to park the car and stay within walking distance of everything.
Don’t miss: Pier 60 at sunset, a beach day, a casual seafood dinner.
5) Naples (about 2 hours)
Naples is one of the most romantic weekend getaways in Florida and it’s very doable from Tampa. This is the choice for couples who want a weekend that feels elevated: beautiful beaches, upscale dining, boutique hotels, and a polished coastal vibe.
Naples is especially lovely for anniversaries, milestone weekends, or anytime you want to lean into “treat ourselves” energy.
Don’t miss: Fifth Avenue South, sunset on the beach, a waterfront dinner.
6) Sanibel & Captiva (about 2 hours 15 minutes)
Sanibel and Captiva are iconic for a reason. These islands are known for shelling, soft beaches, and a slower, nature-focused atmosphere.
Depending on travel conditions and the season, Sanibel can be a wonderful weekend getaway from Tampa for couples who want calm, quiet, and coastal beauty.
Don’t miss: shelling, long beach walks, sunset views.
7) Weeki Wachee Springs (about 1 hour 30 minutes)
If you want something different than the usual beach weekend, Weeki Wachee is a fun, classic Florida getaway. It’s known for its clear spring water, kayaking, and yes – the famous mermaid show.
This is a great option for couples or families who want a weekend that’s outdoorsy and lighthearted.
Don’t miss: kayaking the Weeki Wachee River, spring swimming, a relaxed lunch nearby.
8) Crystal River (about 1 hour 45 minutes)
Crystal River is one of the best weekend trips from Tampa if you love nature. It’s known for manatees (in season), clear water, and a relaxed coastal vibe.
This is a great choice for travelers who want an “easy Florida adventure” without theme parks or crowds.
Don’t miss: a manatee tour (seasonal), kayaking, Three Sisters Springs.
9) Orlando (about 1 hour 30 minutes)
Orlando is obviously known for theme parks, but it can also be a great weekend getaway from Tampa for couples… especially if you plan it around dining, resorts, and experiences outside the parks.
Orlando is also a smart base if you’re planning a cruise out of Port Canaveral, since you can turn a cruise into a longer getaway by spending a day or two in the area before sailing.
Don’t miss: resort dining, Disney Springs (even without parks), a spa day.
Tips for Planning a Weekend Getaway from Tampa
A weekend getaway doesn’t have to be complicated. The best trips are often the ones where you choose one main destination and build in time to actually relax.
A few quick tips:
- Pick one “anchor plan.” A beach day, a boat tour, a spa appointment, or a sunset dinner reservation.
- Stay somewhere walkable if you want to minimize driving.
- Travel in shoulder seasons if possible. Florida weekends can feel very different when crowds are lighter.
Final Thoughts: Tampa Is the Perfect Launch Point for Florida Weekends
One of the best things about Tampa is how quickly you can get somewhere that feels completely different. In just a couple of hours, you can be on a quiet island, in a charming coastal town, or kayaking in crystal-clear spring water.
Whether you want romance, relaxation, or a little adventure, there’s a weekend getaway from Tampa that fits the mood.
Weekend Getaway Tip: Turn a Cruise Into a Longer Florida Escape
Tampa isn’t just a great home base for weekend road trips. It’s also home to one of Florida’s most convenient cruise ports. If you’re sailing out of Port Tampa Bay, consider arriving a day early (or staying an extra day after your cruise) to turn your sailing into a full weekend getaway.
A few easy pre- or post-cruise ideas from Tampa include a beach day in Clearwater, a relaxing island stay on Anna Maria, or a food-and-art weekend in St. Petersburg. Even one extra night can make your trip feel less rushed, and far more memorable.
