Overview
Safety Harbor is a city in Pinellas County in the Tampa Bay Area.
Safety Harbor is easily accessible to two airports within a thirty minute drive. Safety Harbor lies at the head of Old Tampa Bay, midway between Tampa and Clearwater. It has a land area of 4.89 square miles and a population (2005) of 17,800. This community has historic roots, including Native American inhabitants, its reputation as a "safe harbor" for Spanish fleets waiting out storms, and the famed Safety Harbor Resort and Spa, renowned for its healing waters. The beautiful coastline remains scenic and protected with few residences marring the view as you drive along Bayshore Drive north to Philippe Park. A number of shops and dining facilities are dotted throughout the community. Theatre is close by with Clearwater's Ruth Eckerd Hall. A major hospital, Mease Countryside Hospital, is located at the north end of the community on the main artery, called McMullen Booth Road. Further information on Safety Harbor can be found on the City's website, http://www.cityofsafetyharbor.com
3 things to do · 8 places to eat · 3 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Best things about Safety Harbor
Safety Harbor Museum of Regional History
This is a history and archaeology museum, located on the site of a Tocobaga Indian shell mound on the shore of Old Tampa Bay. Special exhibits, workshops and summer camps offered throughout the year.
Philippe Park
This beautiful County park offers walking and bike trails, boat ramp, picnic pavilions, and beautiful scenery along the shores of Tampa Bay. Located on the site of Odet Philippe's agricultural plantation. Mr. Philippe re…
Safety Harbor Marina
This beautiful waterfront marina has a long pier, boat docking facilities, a covered pavilion and benches to enjoy the beautiful bay waters. Manatees can frequently be seen at this marina. Throughout the year, special ev…
Plan your trip
Best time to visit & weather
Most comfortable: Oct–May. Summer highs reach about 90°F; winter lows dip to about 54°F. Very hot (Jul, Aug) — plan outdoor time for mornings. Wettest: Aug and Sep. (climate data from nearby Largo)
Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).
Getting there
- From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
- PIE St. Petersburg Clearwater International Airport, Pinellas Park — 7 mi away (major hub). Directions
- TPA Tampa International Airport, Tampa — 10 mi away (major hub). Directions
Saint Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
Full “Get in” guide ↓Budget & where to stay
No prices are listed for this place yet. See the Sleep guide ↓ for options.
Sample 1-day itinerary
Day 1
- Morning Safety Harbor Museum of Regional History, Philippe Park
- Lunch Brady's Backyard BBQ
- Afternoon Safety Harbor Marina
- Dinner Cello's Char-House Restaurant
Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.
Food for you
Cuisine (tap to filter)
What to ask about, for your diet
Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder
Get in
Saint Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
Also about one-half hour drive to Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Bus service available, Amtrak connections, and many rental car facilities.
Do
Do Safety Harbor Museum of Regional History
This is a history and archaeology museum, located on the site of a Tocobaga Indian shell mound on the shore of Old Tampa Bay. Special exhibits, workshops and summer camps offered throughout the year.
Do Philippe Park
This beautiful County park offers walking and bike trails, boat ramp, picnic pavilions, and beautiful scenery along the shores of Tampa Bay. Located on the site of Odet Philippe's agricultural plantation. Mr. Philippe reportedly introduced the grapefruit to the new world on his plantation. A monument appears to honor him. Also situation on an Indian ceremonial mound. This is a popular gathering spot for group outings, and pavilion rentals can be secured by calling 727 669-1947.
Do Safety Harbor Marina
This beautiful waterfront marina has a long pier, boat docking facilities, a covered pavilion and benches to enjoy the beautiful bay waters. Manatees can frequently be seen at this marina. Throughout the year, special events are held including the 4th of July celebration and Harbor Sounds Music Festival. This is administered by the City oF Safety Harbor Parks and Recreation Department. For info, call: 727 724 1572.
Buy
Safety Harbor has great walkable Main Street with plenty of boutique shops.
Eat
Eat Fountain Grille Restaurant (inside Safety Harbor Spa)
Drink
- 8th Ave Pub, at the corner of 8th and Main - great staff and music!
Sleep
Stay Safety Harbor Resort and Spa (Safety Harbor Resort & Spa)
In 2006, the resort completed an extensive renovation of all 189 guest rooms and added 8 signature suites. This multi-million project enhanced all features of the spacious guest rooms. A soft natural palette of color, gentle lighting and magnificent views of Tampa Bay set the stage for relaxation. Sink into a tranquility bed of luxurious linens and let the bath amenities refresh you.
Nearby
Dunedin
City / town · 25 listings · 5 mi away
Palm Harbor
City / town · 6 listings · 7 mi away
Ozona
City / town · 5 listings · 7 mi away
Clearwater
City / town · 17 listings · 7 mi away
Crystal Beach
City / town · 14 listings · 8 mi away
Largo
City / town · 7 listings · 9 mi away
Pinellas Park
City / town · 2 listings · 10 mi away
Tarpon Springs
City / town · 10 listings · 11 mi away
My experience
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