Things to do in Pasco County, Florida: “The Nature Coast”
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Pasco County is an often overlooked region on Florida’s western coast. The abundance of parks, golf courses, and canoeing trails has earned this county the nickname of “The Nature Coast.” Add in close proximity to the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, and you have plenty of diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. It’s a quick drive from Tampa, so a great option if you are looking to explore the quaint side of Florida.
Most of the major attractions lie near the large suburban areas, namely New Port Richey, Wesley Chapel, and Holiday. I live in the New Tampa region for several years and often visited Pasco to enjoy the low-key parks. Read on for some of my recommended attractions to add to your must-do list.
Take a bike ride at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Preserve
The best place for a bike ride in the region is at beautiful Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, one of the largest undeveloped natural lands in the county. A 7 mile long multi purpose paved trail runs through the park and connects to an even longer 42 mile long Suncoast trail. Let’s say you can get in a really nice long invigorating workout if you choose to do so. This was one of the first parks I visited upon moving to the Tampa metro and is still to this day one of my favorites.
The scenery is very serene and natural with tall pines lining the trail. If you prefer, 13 miles of hiking and equestrian trails will challenge you all the same. Hiking is really the way to go if you want to truly explore the native plant and animal life up close. To date, 177 bird species have been identified here, and thus, this park is a prime bird watching destination in Pasco. Horseshoe, volleyball courts, and picnicking facilities add even more opportunities for a nice full day out in nature.
Shop & dine at The Shops of Wiregrass
This attractive outdoor mall offers a mix of mid and upscale shopping and dining. The ambiance is very nice with palm trees, fountains, and al fresco dining options. You will find a number of popular national chains like Dillard’s, Macys, and Barnes and Nobles, plus a number of locally owned boutique shops. Great dining options include 900 degrees Woodfired pizza, Le Macaron (awesome coffee & macarons), 365 Italian (delicious gelato), and Noble Crust (a Southern inspired pizza chain).
This mall also offers a number of interesting events throughout the year, most notably a Christmas show featuring synchronized music and lights plus falling snow. It’s one of my must-do Christmas events in the Bay area. Recurring events include a Farmers Market on the first and third Saturday and a Shop local market the 4th Sunday of each month.
Treat yourself to an acai bowl at Raining Berries
Move over smoothies! Acai bowls are all the rage today. These delicious and healthy fruit bowls are made using pureed acai fruit, fresh fruit, granola, and a variety of optional toppings (peanut butter, chocolate bits, coconut shreds, etc). Acai is reported to be loaded with antioxidants, and more importantly, it is delicious & refreshing. These bowls are the perfect cooling treat on a hot & humid Florida day.
Raining Berries is the place to go for acai. They really make the best-of-the-best in the Tampa area. While living in New Tampa (there is a location in nearby Lutz), I treated myself to a bowl at least twice a month! You can choose your base (acai, coconut, matcha, spirulina) and add fresh fruit, coconut flakes, chocolate chips, and either nutella/peanut butter. It’s filling and healthier than a traditional frozen treat. They also serve a full coffee menu with all sorts of specialty drinks. Their regular drip is flavorful enough without unnecessary added sugars and cream. The décor is modern, trendy and colorful. Definitely a hip place to enjoy a modern treat.
Observe wildlife at James E. Grey Preserve
This small nature preserve is the perfect place to take a quiet morning walk. While the trail is pretty short, the scenery is quite enjoyable and it’s relatively easy to see wildlife. In fact, I typically see at least a few gopher tortoises on each visit. Also, gators and armadillos are not a rare sight. The highlight here is a long boardwalk trail which takes you over the Pithlachascotee River. This park is also considered to be one of the best kayaking destinations in the county. No rentals available, however, there is a launch.
The best part of all is that this park is under visited so you can soak up some quality time in nature all to yourself. Lots of birds are out happily chirping, so pack the binoculars. Most of the trail is pretty shady so you can still enjoy this one in the heat of summer. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed.
More info on James E. Grey preserve
Treat yourself to a fresh smoothie at Nekter Juice Bar
Nothing quenches the thirst on a hot Florida summer day quite like a fresh cooling smoothie. Nekter, the best place for a healthy antioxidant packed smoothie, is located in Trinity, a small up and coming suburb of Tampa. This smoothie shop is a great choice for anyone avoiding dairy as they use cashew milks in their drinks.
In addition to smoothies, you will find a number of healthy green juiced drinks and acai bowls on the menu. Any of these delicious fruit and/or veggie packed treats will work wonderfully well to cool you down and give you extra energy. Creative smoothie choices include immunity boosting elderberry, inflammation reducing turmeric, and antioxidant packed pitaya and acai. Their elderberry special is one of the best smoothies I’ve tasted.
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