The town of Tarpon Springs started as a Greek sponge harvesting village. As a result, many Greeks still live here. Consequently, it is a great place to immerse yourself in Greek culture and cuisine. Wander down to the sponge docks to browse the shops and restaurants. We spent two romantic nights on a houseboat docked at the marina. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Tarpon Springs also has several nearby beaches.
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Go Greek in Tarpon Springs, FL
While our friends went to Greece on a second honeymoon, my husband and I opted for a more local option for Greek culture. During our stay in Tarpon Springs, we stopped in a bakery for some baklava. Subsequently we heard a talk radio station playing in Greek. We had previously studied the Greek language with our friends so we were excited to recognize some of the words.
Further, the Sponge Dock area abounds with authentic Greek restaurants and kitschy tourist shops selling sponge related and seaside souvenirs. Once you have had your fill of tourist shops, head to Mykonos, located at 628 Dodecacanese Blvd. for a tasty gyro platter.
While exploring the sponge docks you will notice colorful bicycles decorated with flowers. Consequently, these were created by artist, Warren Gregory. Although they are not Greek, they have become a decorative part of the scenery here. Influenced by his time living in Amsterdam, the artist began creating these works of art in Tarpon Springs in 2015.
Meanwhile rumor has it that he originally decorated his wife’s bike to make it more easily distinguishable. Then he started decorating junk bikes and leaving them around Tarpon Springs. As a result, now people bring him bikes to decorate. Over time, his creations have become more elaborate. In addition, you can find more of his work on Instagram at Flowerbikeman.
Since our visit to Tarpon Springs, Flowerbikeman has returned to Amsterdam. Likewise, you will see his creations around the city.
The Marina
Unless you get seasick, we recommend spending the night on a houseboat. We rented ours for a reasonable price through Homeaway which has since merged with VRBO, but Airbnb also has boats for rent. The first night we sipped wine on the upper deck while listening to live bands playing at Miss Vicki’s on the River. Then the second night we walked over to Miss Vicki’s and shared a few drinks with locals and ate some appetizers.
The Beach
The next day we headed out to the beach. We chose Sunset Beach for its’ seclusion. I brought my paddle board, so I spent the day in the water while my husband lounged on the beach. However, if you prefer renting paddle boats or kayaks, nearby Fred Howard Park is for you.
Moreover, if Tarpon Springs is part of a Florida road trip, make sure to stop by the Manatee Viewing Center at Big Bend Power Plant. It is less than an hour and a half south and a great place to spot manatees during the cooler months.
Meanwhile, here are some links for beach gear if you need to get some before your vacation.
If you enjoy a relaxing getaway with less traditional lodgings, this is for you. This is also a great trip if you enjoy meeting locals and immersing yourself in local culture.
You can find more romantic ideas here.
Also, check out these links for some ideas on what to bring on your romantic weekend…
Donna Emperador is a travel and food blogger and copywriter. Donna believes in learning about different cultures while sharing good food and cocktails. She has lived in South Florida for over 20 years and enjoys spending time exploring the road to find unique places to share with readers. She can be found on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
How quaint to have this mini Greece in Tarpon Springs. I’ve never heard of it before, but it looks so charming. The beach looks wonderful and the climate warm, just like the real Greece!
I must admit I was drawn in my the colourful bike art! I did not know there was a large Greek presence in Tarpon Springs. But I now know where to go to satisfy my Greek food cravings when I am in that part of Florida.
I’ve never been to Tarpon Springs, and it sounds like an interesting place to explore. I was not familiar with what it had to offer. What a cute place to check out.
These bikes are so fun! How creative some people are… Tarpon Springs looks lovely – just like Greece, you’re absolutely right. Nevertheless, since I’m based in Europe, for me, it’s closer to go to Greece 😉
Tarpon Springs looks just perfect for a short vacation! The beaches look fabulous too! Living in Germany, the “real” Greece is closer for me – but I totally see the charme of Tarpon Springs.
I add Tarpon Springs to my bucket list. I had no idea that I could visit Greece in America; it seems a fantastic place. I love the flower bikes in the town.