Nestled on Charlotte County’s stunning southwest corner, Stump Pass Beach State Park is the perfect destination to get away from it all.
Situated around a mile long stretch of pristine beach, it is a place where shark’s teeth and glistening seashells can be found on its golden sands.
Its shimmering waters also make for good paddling, snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing conditions. While its hiking trail leads you through five different eco-systems. All of which house a diverse range of birds and wildlife species – some that are rare and endangered.
Unfortunately, this Florida state park does not have camping facilities onsite, which is a real shame. Given how much there is to see and do here, many tourists come back to the area on consecutive days to fully enjoy what it has to offer.
Activities
During their time at Stump Pass Beach State Park, guests can enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreational pursuits.
Outlined below are some of the main activities you can do during your time there.
Paddling at Stump Pass Beach State Park
The gorgeous waters around Stump Pass Beach State Park are a haven for those who enjoy canoeing, SUP and kayaking.
Quick access to the Gulf of Mexico can be gained through several boat launching ramps that are within a 5-mile radius of Stump Pass.
Whilst on the water you can explore the waterways and even head over to a brace of islands that lay to the east of the shoreline.
Beach at Stump Pass Beach State Park
The beach is a popular spot for shelling, especially in the winter when it is not uncommon to find shark’s teeth on the sand.
During the warmer months of the year sunbathing and swimming are regularly practiced here too.
Many visitors choose to walk its entire length and it is the preferred watching spot for many birders.
Scuba diving and Snorkeling at Stump Pass Beach State Park
The sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico attract scuba divers and snorkelers in their droves.
Equipment is not available to rent at the park, so you will need to bring your own with you.
You will also need to display a diver-down flag should you partake in these activities.
Fishing at Stump Pass Beach State Park
The area around Stump Pass and the Gulf of Mexico are renowned fishing spots. So people from all over Florida come to the park for the chance to cast a line.
If you want to do the same, you might need a license to do so. You will also need to abide by the rules and regulations of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission when it comes to fishing in the state. This includes the number, size, season in which you fish and method of capture.
Depending on what’s biting you may be able to catch trout, redfish, tarpon, sheepshead, snook, whiting and flounder.
Hiking at Stump Pass Beach State Park
If you would like to explore the area away from the beach, there is a nice hiking trail you can tackle.
Stretching for 1.3-mile it takes you towards the park’s southern end past five different ecosystems and natural communities.
Be sure to have your camera with you because you will see several different species of flora and fauna along the way.
Picnicking at Stump Pass Beach State Park
During their time at the park many visitors choose to have a picnic.
Overall, there are six covered picnic tables available on a first-come, first-served basis.
One of these is situated near the restrooms. The other five are dotted around the hiking trail.
Birding at Stump Pass Beach State Park
You’ll definitely want to bring your binoculars to the park to see the various species of birds that reside within it.
Some of these breeds are permanent residents, while others temporarily stop by and rest during their annual migration.
Depending on when you visit the park you may see the likes of snowy egret, osprey, black skimmer, least tern and the magnificent frigate bird.
You may also see the likes of red-breasted merganser, grey plover, ruddy turnstone and short-billed dowitcher too.
Nature & Wildlife
In addition to the birds, the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Some of which are rare and protected.
During your time at the park look out for West Indian manatee and gopher tortoises. Keep an eye out too for alligators, fiddler crabs, snakes and raccoons.
Some of the plant life you may see includes indigo berry, coontie, prickly pear cactus and bay cedar.
Pets at Stump Pass Beach State Park
Your pet is welcome to join you at the park although certain conditions on their presence do apply.
At all times they must be well behaved and restrained on a handheld leash that is no more than six feet in length.
They should also be cleaned up after as well.
Dogs can also not be left unattended for more than 30 minutes and are not permitted on the playground or restroom facilities.
The exception to this is service animals who are allowed to join you in all areas of the park.
Camping at Stump Pass Beach State Park
There is no camping available at the park.
However, within easy driving distance of it you’ll find the Mangrove Campground Myakka and Flying a Campground facilities.
Between them they offer a range of accommodation options. These include RV sites that come with connections for water and electricity, as well as primitive sites that are more suitable to those who are self-sufficient.
Depending on which one you stay at, amenities may include flush toilets, hot summers and a dump station.
If you would like to stay somewhere that provides you with some of the comforts of home, there are plenty of hotels, motels and Vrbo style accommodation available in nearby Venice.
Park Location
Stump Pass Beach State Park
4905 34th St. South #5000
St. Petersburg FL 33711
Phone: 727.865.0668
Map
Video
Here is a good YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Stump Pass Beach State Park:
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