Ft. DeSoto Beach, located off of St. Petersburg’s southern tip, has been named the number one beach in the United States. Named after the historic fort located on the 900-acre county park, visitors can tour the five interconnected islands that comprise the park. More than a beach, Ft. DeSoto includes a year-round county campground, miles of nature trails and paved fitness trails, 2.25 miles of canoe trails, an 800-foot boat launch with floating docks, fishing piers, picnic pavilions with grills, a concession stand and restroom and shower facilities. From the island’s southern shores, visitors enjoy a sweeping panorama of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

There is a small daily fee $5.00, and a toll both to enter.