Fort DeSoto Park is spectacular soft white sand, clean water, calm and laid-back ambiance was voted as the America?s top beach in two consecutive years. It was opened in December 21, 1962 and the state toll road named the Pinellas Bayway was finished. In May 11, 1963 it was dedicated as a public park. Annually the park averages visitors are 2.7 million. Fort DeSoto Park offers significant leisure activities while preserving the natural state of Florida. Recreation is all about Fort DeSoto, picnic, bicycling, roller-blading, walking or jogging swimming, hiking, camping and relaxing is the most activities that can be done in the beach.

Fort DeSoto Park is good for canoeing and kayaking with a 2.25 mile canao trail in the ?back waters is just on the opposite side from the beaches. Rentals of Canoe and kayak are available. Dogs are welcome in the beach as long as they are leashed. Moreover, Fort DeSoto Park is the largest fenced paw playground where they can run freely.