Question about Tampa, FL

[Just_Trish]

I am heading to Tampa next month for one day, followed by Orlando for one day. I won't have much free time in Tampa at all, but I hate to be that close to the coast and not see the beach!

If someone is familiar with the area, how long does it take to get to the closest beach, and what is the area called so I can put it in my GPS?
Again, I don't want to take too much time because the sooner I get out of Tampa, the sooner I can get to my one day at MK!

If it helps, we are probably staying somewhere near the FL State Fairgrounds.

Thank you!

 

[Just_Trish]

Aww...no one here is from Tampa?! Just bumping it in hopes that someone can help...Thanks!

 

[bgirldeb]

The closest beach on the gulf is probably Clearwater Beach. It is about an hours drive, depending on traffic

 

[pooh4evr]

go to Sand key beach- it is a little further down the road from clearwater- either are beautiful - warm calm clear waters.. I think it is about 90 minutes to Orlando from that area.

 

[minnie56]

St Pete's Beach is pretty too...and from Tampa about a 30 minute drive-tops.