A coastal Florida town overflowing with outdoor recreation
Sitting along the east side of Tampa Bay, Apollo Beach is a laid-back coastal town attracting permanent residents, tourists and snowbirds. About 18 miles south of Tampa, the Hillsborough County community is known for its scenic views and outdoor amenities, boasting miles of deep-water canals. “We sometimes joke and say it’s like a permanent vacation out here,” says Whitney Lohr, Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Florida Living Group and longtime resident. “It’s just a haven for waterfront living.” Beyond waterfront activities, Apollo Beach is surrounded by nature preserves and hiking trails. And with a major thoroughfare running through town, residents can reach popular Tampa Bay area attractions. “It’s centrally located and provides easy access to Interstate 75, so you can hop on and go east to Orlando, west to Tampa, or Riverview and Brandon,” says Julia Hernandez, a Realtor with REAL BROKER, LLC.
Apollo Beach took shape in the 1930s when the Dickman family, who owned the land, wanted to turn the 4,000-acre mangrove area into a waterfront tourist community. It saw a series of developers and name changes before becoming Apollo Beach in the late 1950s, after the Greek God of the Sun. Major residential development began around that time. Today, Apollo Beach has grown to 35,000 people, and despite residential and industrial growth, it maintains its small-town charm. “One of the best things about the area is how community-oriented it is,” says Lohr. “You’ll see people you know at the local mom-and-pop small businesses.” TECO Energy, the town’s major employer, owns the town's Big Bend Power Station, providing power to the Tampa Bay area. Because of Apollo Beach’s size, many residents commute to Tampa and other parts of the county for work. Hillsborough County Public Schools and HCA Florida South Shore Hospital are other major employers. MacDill Air Force Base, about 29 miles away, is a top county employer.
Many enjoy waterfront residences in Apollo Beach.
The skatepark at Apollo Beach Park is appreciated by many!
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Fun on the canals and hanging with manatees
Boating, fishing and beachcombing are year-round activities. The town has 55 miles of deep-water canals leading to Tampa Bay, with multiple public marinas and fishing piers. Nature and conservation areas also surround the community. The waterfront Apollo Beach Nature Preserve is a favorite for hiking and fishing. Its 35-foot observation tower provides panoramic views of Tampa Bay. While it does have a sandy beach, no swimming is allowed to protect the area. The Manatee Viewing Center, across from the preserve, is the town’s most popular attraction. It's next to the Big Bend Power Station, and the warm, clean water from the plant attracts hundreds of manatees from April to November. The spot is a designated manatee sanctuary with a boardwalk for viewing them, along with an education center and cownose rays touch tank. The 1,400-acre Wolf Creek Branch Nature Preserve is also within the community, offering miles of hiking trails along its natural mangrove shoreline. Florida Aquarium Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center is at the heart of town and is a conservation campus with research centers, animal habitats and exhibits. The facility also has stingray feeding experiences and visits with endangered African penguins. SouthShore Sportsplex is directly south of the aquarium and features four multisport athletic fields. It has one of the largest synthetic turf fields in the nation. E.G. Simmons Regional Park borders the town’s southern edge and includes boat ramps, kayak rentals, swimming areas and playgrounds. Bahia Beach is the closest public sandy beach, about 8 miles south. Pine Key Island sits 2 miles west of Apollo Beach. Accessible by boat, it's known for boat parties, beach camping and swimming.
Many embark on kayaks along the water in Apollo Beach to enjoy the day.
A visit to Apollo Beach almost isn't complete without a stop at the Manatee Viewing Center.
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Waterfront mansions and quaint cottages
Houses in Apollo Beach are positioned snuggly together in established and modern communities, with the canals weaving between them. Many homes on the water have long private boat docks. The town offers various architectural styles, from Mediterranean-inspired mansions to beach bungalows and midcentury ranchers. The median single-family price is $514,000, 13% higher than Tampa and 20% higher than the national average. “The houses and lots are much bigger out here than in Tampa,” says Lohr. Andalucia is a gated canal-front community with single-family houses and villas ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. Covington Park offers single-family dwellings averaging in the mid-$300,000s and is near parks, schools and shopping. MiraBay is a waterfront community offering modern townhouses and single-family homes near the Wolf Branch Creek Nature Preserve. Prices range from the low-$400,000s for a three-bedroom to $2 million for a six-bedroom estate. Many homes here sit on over a quarter acre of land. Southshore Falls is a 55-plus community with houses and villas starting in the high-$200,000s. It includes an amenity center, sports courts and trails.
Neighborhoods of large costal style homes are being seen in Apollo Beach.
This charming bungalow style home is like many you can find in Apollo Beach.
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A melting pop of cuisines and an old-school drive-in theater
Most shops and restaurants are clustered along Highway 41. Apollo Beach’s diverse population is reflected in its cuisine. It ranges from Korean to Cuban, Haitian and Latin American restaurants, all primarily locally owned. Waterfront seafood eateries like Circles Waterfront Restaurant, which has a waterside tiki bar, are also prevalent. Strip malls are sprinkled across the highway, and Apollo Beach Plaza is its biggest. Brandon Mall is the closest major shopping outlet, 16 miles north. Locals have Salty Shamrock Irish Pub for a night out, but nightlife is limited. Many head to Downtown Tampa for entertainment. “A lot of the appeal is that it isn’t overly developed or full of fast-food restaurants and chains,” says Lohr. “But it’s also growing, and those big box stores will be coming soon.” Less than 5 miles south, the Ruskin Family Drive-In Theater has been an area favorite for catching flicks year-round since 1952.
The grouper Po' Boy is a can't miss at Finn's Dockside in Apollo Beach.
The Ruskin Drive-In near Apollo Beach has been in business since 1952.
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School choice in Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County Public Schools serves the area and has a B-plus Niche rating. Catering to over 224,000 students, it’s the seventh-largest district in the nation. “Hillsborough County offers School Choice, which residents enjoy because you can apply for schools outside your zoned area during certain periods of the year,” Hernandez says.
Teenagers can attend the public East Bay High School near Apollo Beach.
Eisenhower Middle School is one of the choices for kids in Apollo Beach.
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A subtropical climate with low crime but prone to hurricanes
Apollo Beach experiences a humid, subtropical climate with mild winters. Its proximity to the coast makes it vulnerable to hurricane and flooding damage. Hillsborough County releases an annual Disaster Preparedness Guide with emergency shelter locations, best practices and other resources. The HCFL Alert pings residents with emergency updates during an event, and the bus system takes passengers to shelters. According to a 2023 report from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, the crime rate has decreased by 8% compared to 2022. In 2020, the county’s overall crime rate was 42% lower than Florida's rate. December to March is peak tourism season, and traffic congestion is heightened during these months.
Eighteen miles from Tampa
U.S. Highway 41 runs along the town’s eastern edge and provides access to Interstate 275 to the south. Big Bend Road cuts through its northern edge, linking to I-75 to the east. Tampa is about 18 miles away, Tampa International Airport is approximately 24 miles northwest, and St. Petersburg is about a 38-mile drive. Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority provides public transportation, with bus routes along Highway 41.
Written By
Amy David
Photography Contributed By
Raif Fluker
Video By
Kyle Keyes
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michael Kahn,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Apollo Beach, FL sell after 81 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Apollo Beach, FL over the last 12 months is $489,999, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
SELLER TO PAY 2% TOWARDS BUYER'S CLOSING COST AND PRE-PAIDS WITH FULL PRICE OFFER, HOME PRICED TO SELL! Pool show in photos is a virtual rendering for illustrative purposes. HOME QUALIFIES FOR USDA LOAN WITH 100% FINANCING AVAILABLE, NO DOWN PAYMENT REQUIRED FOR QUALIFIED BUYERS. Stunning David Weekley Kingsbridge Model! Welcome to this elegantly designed move-in ready corner property offering
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath David Weekley home offering a bright, open layout perfect for modern living. Enjoy a spacious living area, an updated kitchen with ample storage, a comfortable primary suite with a private bath and 2 car garage. The additional bedrooms provide flexibility for guests, a home office, or hobbies. Step outside to a peaceful back porch with a pond view; ideal
WHY WAIT TO BUILD? SELLER IS MOTIVATED and is offering buyer assist in closing costs. This dream designer home has over $100k in designer upgrades, appraised way over list price and is just waiting for you in the highly sought-after master-planned community of Waterset in Apollo Beach! Built in 2025, this new home offers the perfect blend of modern luxury, smart design, and resort-style community
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Bellasol is a Luxury Waterfront community! Located in Apollo Beach! This corner condo is on the second floor. The home features Four Bedrooms, Three Full Baths, an Oversized Two Car Garage (580 sq. ft.) and a DEEDED DOCK #14. The private Front Porch is covered and convenient to the elevator or stairs. As you enter through the solid wood door you
Seller is generously offering $5,000 for help with closing costs! Welcome to this stunning two-story home located in the highly sought-after Waterset community! Offering 3 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, this beautifully designed home combines modern finishes with a flexible and functional layout. The main living areas feature wood-look plank tile flooring, creating a warm and cohesive feel
Motivated seller! Award-winning David Weekley model home loaded with upgrades and positioned on an oversized, beautifully landscaped corner homesite with no front neighbors for added privacy. Step inside to a light and bright interior featuring a large center island overlooking the living area—ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The chef’s kitchen impresses with a stainless vent hood and
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Live the Florida lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of in this charming Water Front Key West–style 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the highly sought-after Mirabay community. From the moment you step onto the oversized covered front porch, this home welcomes you with warmth, character, and timeless coastal appeal.Inside, a bright and airy layout
**Turnkey, Fully Furnished 3-Bedroom Villa in the Gated Waterfront Community of MiraBay | Apollo Beach** Move confidently into a home that checks every box - lifestyle, location, and long-term value. Sellers Offering a Full Home Warranty with Purchase. This immaculate 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom villa offers 1,750 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space in one of Apollo Beach's most desirable
Set on an oversized 1⁄4-acre lot, the backyard is a true highlight. Enjoy a screened, HEATED saltwater POOL overlooking a serene, expansive POND- perfect for catching western sunset views. This well maintained home has been thoughtfully updated for Florida living with IMPACT-RATED windows and WHOLE HOUSE GENERATOR connected to a buried 500-gallon propane tank. Other recent improvements include an
Welcome to this beautifully maintained Cardel-built Brighton 2 floor plan located in the highly sought-after Waterset community. This thoughtfully designed single-story home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a dedicated office, providing both comfort and flexibility for modern living. Inside, you'll find wood plank-look ceramic tile flooring throughout the main living areas, creating a warm and
Welcome to 5213 Moon Shell Drive. This house comes with a REDUCED RATE as low as 4.875% (APR 5.376%) as of 02/20/2026 through List & LockTM. This is a seller paid rate-buydown that reduces the buyer’s interest rate and monthly payment. Terms apply, see disclosures for more information. Discover comfort, efficiency, and location in this well-maintained three-bedroom, two-bathroom home offering
Welcome to this stunning, better-than-new 3 bedroom plus den, 3 bath, 3 car garage pool home in the highly sought-after community of Waterset. Built by Homes By WestBay and thoughtfully designed with smart home technology & a well appointed outdoor kitchen, it offers an inviting setting for effortless, stylish entertaining. With its wide driveway, custom landscaping, & welcoming front porch, this
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to the MiraBay lifestyle—where thoughtfully designed living meets luxury resort-style amenities and everyday convenience.Perfectly timed to make your move, this inviting Key West inspired home presents a great opportunity with a spacious and highly functional floor plan designed for the way you live today. From the moment you arrive, a
Truly a WOW property! Nicely appointed 2 bedroom 2 bath with an abundance of living space including a sun room! Dock with Electric lift boasting a weight capacity of 10,000 lbs. with lift runners that can be adjusted! Electrical power and water hose for easy boat cleaning and operation. Even Dolphins are known to come into the cove of Lake Sunrise! This 55+ Community is the areas most desirable
Welcome to 615 Islebay Drive, a beautifully updated waterfront pool home in Mirabay, a gated resort-style community. This spacious 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home offers bright, open living spaces designed for everyday comfort and entertaining. Located on the main canal in Mirabay with direct, quick access to Tampa Bay - home located on lot with no restrictions on boat size! Step outside to enjoy
Boater's Paradise in Apollo Beach and furnished! Free - 3 month boat dock rental with min. of 6 month lease! This all-inclusive rental comes furnished with all utilities included in the rent. Boat Dock is available for additional $150 a month after the 3 month's paid for by the landlord!! Second Floor condo features 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with an open floor plan. Minimum rental is 6
Luxury Waterfront Living in Premier 55+ Community – Apollo Beach Experience refine coastal living in this fully remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bath waterfront condo located in one of Apollo Beach's most desirable 55+ communities. Designed for comfort, style and effortless living, this residence offers a rare opportunity for an extended luxury stay in a serene setting. Every detail has been thoughtfully
If you aren't in the market to buy, consider RENTING this almost new home in the Ruskin area! This is a great location and the community has plenty of amenities. Enjoy the convenience of your garage, with upgraded washable flooring. The dining living combo has beautifully upgraded lighting and the great room concept makes it perfect for entertaining. Enjoy cooking with the new stainless
Welcome to your Florida paradise!This home located within the private gated Treviso subdivision and is Turn-Key! Just bring your clothes and relax! You will be wowed when you enter this amazing home and look out over the CUSTOM POOL and BOAT DOCK. The open concept first floor boasts one of two over-sized great rooms, dining area, kitchen, utility room, guest bedroom and bathroom as well as a
Lovely townhouse style condo unit in Anchor Point. All ages welcome. 2 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, fully furnished and turn key. All you need is your toothbrush! This unit is steps from the pool where friends gather and enjoy the Florida sunshine.
Nestled within the dynamic master-planned district of The Yard at Waterset in Apollo Beach, Florida, The Citizen at Waterset, a brand new luxury apartment community, serves as the focal point of an engaging live, work, and play lifestyle. This thoughtfully designed haven seamlessly unites the necessities of modern living with the excitement of coastal life. Residents are invited to indulge in a
Brand New 2024 | 5BD / 3BA | Waterset, Apollo BeachNever lived in. 2,586 sq ft of smart, open living — quartz counters, gas range, kitchen island, tankless water heater, and impact windows throughout. Tesla charger in the 2-car garage.First-floor bedroom and full bath. Upstairs loft, second-floor laundry, covered lanai. Washer and dryer included.Waterset delivers: resort pools, parks,
A brighter tomorrow is waiting for you at The Easton. With spaces that draw inspiration from the warm Florida sunshine and a neighborhood surrounded by endless possibilities, our residences are a fresh experience for modern living in Tampa. Welcoming yet distinct. Lively yet relaxing. Our homes are a distinguished blend of energetic design, mindful amenities and connected community. Make each day
WATERFRONT condo located in Apollo Beach! Highly sought after gated community of Yardarm. Fish off the community dock equipped with water, electric, and a fish cleaning station. The Florida lifestyle continues with two large screened lanai's/terraces offering optimum outdoor living from both the family room and master bedroom to enjoy beautiful weather and waterfront views. The condo features
Discover unbelievable waterfront living at Pilar's Harbour. Dock your boat in one of our 5 boat docks or look out your double French doors and watch manatees swimming in our saltwater canals. Either way, your Florida lifestyle living is just around the bend. With thoughtful design and easy-access features, Pilar's Harbour is also senior-friendly, making it comfortable and convenient for
410 Manns Harbor Blvd | 5 Bed 3.5 Bath | 3,008 sq ft | New Roof | Walking Distance to Clubhouse This is the one you've been waiting for. Picture yourself in this showstopper Morrison-built home in Mirabay – where over 3,000 square feet meets the absolute best value in the entire community. Yeah, you read that right. The main floor? Pure perfection. Primary suite so you never have to climb stairs.
Experience the best of new home living at Cyrene at Mirabay, our luxury for-rent townhome community. Designed with families, pets, and modern living in mind, every residence offers spacious layouts, a private fenced yard with a doggy door for your four-legged friends, and an attached garage for added convenience. Enjoy maintenance-free living unlike anything Tampa Bay has seen before, featuring
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