Come to the tranquil Demens Landing Park for a break from the bustle of St. Petersburg. Nestled on a bridge-accessible island on the eastern side of the peninsula and sheltered between two marinas, this small park provides a calm and spectacular view of Tampa Bay. Relax with a picnic, let the kids run free or come to see a concert by the sea.

Visit in the morning for a peaceful stroll through the park’s palm trees and watch the boats quietly bobbing in the three surrounding marinas. Take a seat at one of the covered bench areas with views of the calm bay stretching out towards the city of Tampa.

Bring a picnic and enjoy a quiet lunch on the park’s spacious grasslands, surrounded by the sounds of the birds and the sea. Play Frisbee or watch the kids slide and clamber in the playground.

The park is lovely in the evenings, with excellent views of the sunset, as well as great fishing off the sea wall and docks. Try to catch a glimpse of the dolphins that frequent the area and sometimes leap from the water.

Visit the marina office for coffee and information on the plays and concerts that are occasionally hosted in the park. Some of the most popular events are the plays held during the American Stage in the Park festival in April and May. Bring a blanket or your own chair and enjoy theater outdoors.

Make the most of the park’s proximity to waterfront restaurants and bistros along the coast and to the Museum of Fine Arts, which is a short walk north.

Picnic shelters and restrooms are provided in the park. If you’re coming by car, access the park by crossing the bridge from 1st Avenue in downtown St. Petersburg. It’s free to park although space is limited. You can also take the bus, with a frequent service to the streets just across the bridge.