Unique sponge destination?? YUP...you read that correctly!
Tarpon Springs is a short drive from Clearwater, Florida and is known for the legacy of the Greek sponge divers who originally settled in the area. As you walk along the Dodecanese Boulevard, you will notice an abundance of sponges, boats, and Greek restaurants. If you are visiting Clearwater or Tampa and have some time in your agenda to visit Tarpon Springs, make sure to add this location to your list of fun things to do/see!
Buy a Sponge
There are countless stands and shops that you can purchase a sponge at along the Dodecanese Boulevard. If you get a chance to step inside the Spongorama Sponge Factory, you will get to read about the history of Tarpon Springs and the large presence of sponges in the area. At this cute & quaint shop, you can purchase natural sponges, and bath & beauty products.
Fun Gift Idea for Kids: Monkey Farts Sponge (sponge that has the aroma/smell of "monkey farts". There are plenty of other smells...this one had to be shared & purchased because of how funny it is).
Sip on Greek Coffee
Tarpon Springs has a heavy Greek business and cultural emphasis. With that being said, you must step inside one of the many Greek coffeeshops or cafes to try Greek coffee...unbelievably tasty! There are also plenty of fresh fruit smoothie stands and cafes to sip on while walking next to the docks.
Sponge Dock Stroll - Port Tarpon Marina
Take a nice stroll along the dockside in the Port Tarpon Marina area. We had a long, nice discussion with a captain of one of the sponge boats and he was more than thrilled to talk about his history of sponge diving/hunting!
Miscellaneous Fun Things To Do
There are plenty of other activities to do in Tarpon Springs. Below are some additional recommendations. Of course, there are an abundance of activities in/near Tarpon Springs....this is just a starting place for you!
If you love to shop, there are an abundance of retail shops with clothes, beauty products, accessories, and more.
There are also Greek groceries stores. Step inside to buy some feta cheese or olives!
Buy/smoke a cigar at Don Esteban Cigars located at the entrance of the Sponge Exchange shopping area.
Buy some different meat/jerky at the Tarpon Springs House of Jerky. If you are feeling courageous, buy some Python jerky!
During the warmer months, paddle out in Tarpon Springs in a clear kayak tour. You may even get to see some manatees!
Visit the Tarpon Springs Aquarium and Animal Sanctuary.
Enjoy a peaceful picnic at A.L. Anderson Park.
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