CNJ+ May 2024

used only as a temporary vaca tion site for overtime employ ees. The northern part of the island was used by the Unit ed States Marine Corp. to test amphibious vehicles that aided the war efforts tremendously. After the war, the beloved des tination for newlyweds was in shambles after its military use. The land was purchased in 1956 and again in 1958 with the sole purpose of building residential dwellings on it. Due to envi ronmental issues, nothing ever happened and in 1974 the land was bought by the state and turned into Honeymoon Island State Recreation Area. Spend the morning picking seashells or bring a picnic lunch with you. There’s so much nature to discover. Still have time in your day, just a mere 11 miles away, stop

cated in the middle of Tarpon Springs. There are also dozens of antique stores along Tarpon Avenue like the Replay Muse um and arcade. This little hole in the wall is lined wall to wall with retro video games such as Burger Time, Frogger, Ms. Pac Man, as well as many classic pinball machines. Fred Howard Park Located about 10 minutes from Down town Tarpon Springs you can find the best park in the city. It also has the best beach in Tarpon Springs. If you contin ue driving past the play areas, you be led down a long cause way. Keep in mind the cause way portion of the beach is pet-friendly but the island itself is not. The Suncoast Primate Sanc tuary- You wouldn’t expect hanging with some monkeys,

into the quaint tourist town of Tarpon Springs. You’ll be pleasantly surprised. This little coastal town is One of Tampa Bay’s best-kept secrets. It’s rich in history and Greek culture, and only about 45 minutes from both Downtown Tampa and Downtown St. Petersburg. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities and the more well-known tourist spots. Tarpon Springs was founded in 1887 and was the first incorporated town in Pinellas County, FL. It’s known for the abundance of sponges in the bay and gulf surrounding it. John K. Cheney opened the first sponge establish ment, creating a sponging industry here. Immigrants from Greece flocked to work in the sponge factories. Once the industry started taking off, John Cocoris, a Greek businessman developed a technique of sponge diving and recruited divers from the Dodecanese islands of Greece. Tarpon Springs is now known as the sponge capital of the WORLD! Due to the abundance of Greek Immigrants brought by the sponging in dustry, a large number of the residents in Tarpon Springs come from the Greek heritage. Depending on when you visit, you may find yourself walk ing through a massive Greek festival, or in the middle of the Epiphany, a traditional Greek celebration out on the bayou. Things to do and see: The picturesque sponge dock- you will find the larg est variety of natural sponges. There are so many gift shops along the main street. Most carry different-sized sponges and the famous homemade soaps and bath products. Sprinkled through the main street, you will find several staple restaurants for Greek cuisine, but the number one recommended by locals will always be Hellas. Best Greek food in town! Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill is a popu lar place to dine It’s located on the water at the end of the main street. You can also take a ride around the bay for as cheap as 20 dollars from local boaters on the dock. Lots of pelicans to see and if you’re lucky some dolphins and ocean wildlife on your cruise. If you like architecture, visit St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral lo

to be on a list of things to do in Tarpon Springs, but The Suncoast Primate Sanctuary delivers with this super unique experience. Home to over 100 animals, a trek through the sanctuary grounds is sure to be educational and entertaining. Most of the animals living in the Suncoast Primate Sanctu ary were in dire situations before ending up there. Operating for the last 50 years, this attraction is not-for-profit, and all ticket sales go 100% back to treating and caring for the animals. Safford House Museum- Journey back to 1883 with a visit to the Safford House Museum. Recorded on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a prime example of late 19th-century Victorian architecture. The Safford house is filled with original furnishings and old Safford family possessions. They have very limited operating hours so be sure to visit their website be fore planning your visit. Brooker Creek Nature Preserve- As Pinellas County’s largest preserve, consisting of almost 8,700 acres, this is a must-visit for the outdoor adven turer looking for things to do in Tarpon Springs. In the preserve, you will hike through forested wetlands and pine flatwoods. Brooker Creek is not a park; it is a wilderness area. Don’t be surprised if you come across Florida’s native wildlife. Some of the animals you may see consist of deer, turkeys, raccoons, gators, turtles, and much more. There are multiple trails to walk, as well as an equestrian trail if you want to do it by horseback. The mosqui toes in any wetland area are fierce. It is suggested you bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen. Sunset Beach- After a long eventful day exploring, there’s nothing like set tling down and watching the sunset. Sunset Beach lives up to its name as it is the best spot in Tarpon Springs to watch the sun slowly fade into the horizon. The sand is soft and warm, and there are multiple picnic tables, and a playground, making this beach a perfect spot for your whole family to hang out. You may also find a sunset concert going on here. Check the city website for events and concerts happening here before your trip. Happy Traveling!

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