5 Must Try Coffee Shops near Tampa Bay Beaches
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After living in Tampa for many years, I figured out that it’s best to get to the beach as early as possible. First off, the temps will be much cooler (and the sun much less intense) for a beach walk, sunbathing, beachcombing, and pretty much any beach sport. Second, morning is the quietest time to take a stroll. At this time, tourists will likely still be in their hotel sleeping or eating breakfast. Thus, you will enjoy a more laid-back experience, especially at crowded tourist hotspots like Clearwater Beach. And finally, dolphin & manatee sightings are more common early on in the day, so keep your eyes peeled.
If you are not used to getting up early and need a boost (or simply just love coffee!), I recommend staring your day with a great cup of joe before a tiresome day of fun-in-the-sun at any of these gorgeous white sand beaches.
In my guide, I highlight a few of my favorite shops. These are the ones I frequented most because of a combination of great coffee, great pastries, and proximity to the beach. One of the great things about the Gulf is that there are a surprising number of local restaurants and cafes easily accessible no matter where you go. You don’t have to resort to a common chain which is nice because I love supporting local businesses.
All shops included in my guide open no later than 8am, so you can enjoy your drink and then head straight to the nearest beach before it gets too crowded (and more importantly) too hot!
Indian Shores Coffee
- Closest beach: Indian Rocks Beach (check out my guide to the Gulf’s hidden gem)
- Highlight: Breezy covered patio
- Hours: 7am-2pm.
- Location: 19221 Gulf Blvd. Indian Shores
Indian Rocks is one of my favorite low-key beach towns (there is little commercialization) and Indian Shores is probably my favorite coffeeshop in the Bay area. I’ve been coming here for years because I love the covered patio, the top notch coffee, and the location right across from the top beach. Plus, I really love driving around this little town and seeing all the colorful houses and businesses.
Indian Shores serves excellent coffee and pastries, plus espresso drinks and specialty lattes such as the Purple Haze (Dark chocolate and hazelnut). I usually order the Americano, although the regular drip is always great too. The chocolate croissants are delicious and so are the muffins (try the Morning Glory). Sadly, they stopped serving drinks in proper mugs (I hate drinking out of paper cups), however, you can still enjoy a great cup of joe and a delicious treat on the covered patio no matter how sunny the skies happen to be!
Update: This shop sadly suffered a lot of damage after Hurricane Helene hit in 2024. They have recently opened back up again which is great news.
Sweet Brewnette
- Closest beach: Madeira Beach
- Highlight: Quirky decor
- Hours: 7am-3pm
- Location: 13999 Gulf Blvd. Madeira Beach
This unique coffeehouse serves organic drinks in an eclectic space. There is lots of interesting local artwork to enjoy while sipping your drink of choice. One time, I bought a beautiful local paining of Labyrinth, which is one of my favorite 80’s movies.
They also offer a nice outdoor seating area, if the heat is not too unbearable. The coffee is decent enough although a bit on the dark side for my taste. A number of specialty drinks plus several tea and smoothie options are also on the lineup.
You can also enjoy a decent breakfast here and it’s a more affordable option in comparison to nearby cafes. A number of breakfast entrees and muffins are also available. I recommend the PB & B (Toasted Wheat English Muffin with Peanut Butter and Honey). Afterwards head over to Madeira Beach known for the lively 1100 foot long St. John’s Boardwalk (I love the dolphin cruise here – we saw a ton plus the views of Boca Ciega Bay are incredible).
Update: Due to the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene, Sweet Brewnette has decided to reopen in a new location. Please visit their website for details on the new location.
Cafe Soleil
- Closest Beach: St. Pete
- Highlight: Delicious homemade pastries
- Hours: 8am-3pm (closed Wed)
- Location: 4695 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach
This charming French cafe and bakery is located near St. Pete, a low-key alternative to busy Clearwater. Before taking a stroll along one of the area’s most relaxing beaches, I recommend stopping by this local cafe to try one of their amazing pastries.
The seating area both inside and out (covered) are both nicely decorated. The house coffee is decent (they brew Kahwa – a local roaster), yet overpriced as they sadly no longer offer refills (a real disappointment). The pastries are fresh and delicious and they also offer quiche and toasted croissant sandwiches. I recommend treating yourself to a Lemon Fan or Almond Croissant.
Grove Surf and Coffee
- Closest Beach: St. Pete/Treasure Island
- Highlight: Cool surf decor and equipment
- Hours: 8am-5pm (6 on Friday & Saturday)
- Location: 7370 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach
This fun surf + coffee shop is located close to both St. Pete and Treasure Island beaches. Treasure Island is one of the Bay’s widest beaches, so a great place to enjoy beach sports (it’s one of the few where I saw volleyball nets set up).
Grove Coffee shop offers a simple menu of the usual coffee and espresso drinks plus a few specialty lattes and treats. I recommend the Everything Cruffin stuffed with chive cream cheese – it’s really tasty and unique. Afterwards, check out the shop which offers surfboards, swimsuits, sandals, and more. I like the fun vacation vibe here, although I prefer using mugs and real plates over paper.
Update: Sadly, this St. Pete cafe also suffered damage from Hurricane Helene. They reopened in June 2025 after much restoration efforts.
Belleair Coffee Company
- Closest beach: Clearwater
- Highlight: Spacious and eclectic
- Hours: 6:30am-6:30pm (7:30-4 on Sunday)
- Location: 100 Indian Rocks Rd. Belleair Bluffs
There are not many good local options anywhere near Clearwater Beach, plus it would be too hard to find parking if there were any decent options. Belleair Coffee Company is located close enough, yet far enough away from the beach to keep most tourists out. This one feels the most local to me.
This small batch roaster serves organic coffee and delicious pastries, in a big eclectically designed space. You can kick back here for a while and play a few games or simply enjoy the cozy ambiance. Bonus – they are one of the few beach area coffeehouses to provide refills!
Muffins, quiche, overnight oats, donuts, and pastries available. I recommend the Veggie Quiche for a savory treat and the overnight oats for a filling, healthy entree. I love their Americano – it’s one of the best I’ve tasted in the metro thus far.
Side note: The Bay is a great area for coffee lovers. I’ve found so many wonderful shops all over the metro, not just at the beach. You can take a look at my comprehensive guide for more details. If you want to avoid common chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts, it’s super easy to do in this region.
