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
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Apollo Beach, FL sell after 80 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Apollo Beach, FL over the last 12 months is $485,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
6538 Simone Shores Circle | The Orion Floorplan5 Beds | 4 Baths | 2,654 Living Sq. Ft. | 12 ft Elevation Welcome to 6538 Simone Shores Circle, a newly constructed 2024 waterfront home by Bistro Builders, located in the elevated community of Simone Shores in Apollo Beach. The Orion floorplan features 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms across 2,654 sq. ft. of living space, along with a private dock,
Welcome to 6520 Simone Shores Dr, Apollo Beach, FL – Brand-New Custom Waterfront Pool Home with Contemporary Design! Step into modern luxury with this stunning 2024 custom-built waterfront home. Thoughtfully designed for efficiency, technology, and comfort, this exceptional Meridian Floor Plan by Bistro Builders features cutting-edge solar roof tiles, delivering instant energy savings while
Welcome to 6526 Simone Shores Dr, Apollo Beach, FL – Brand-New Custom Waterfront Pool Home with Contemporary Design! Step into modern luxury with this stunning 2024 custom-built waterfront home. Thoughtfully designed for efficiency, technology, and comfort, this exceptional Meridian Floor Plan by Bistro Builders features cutting-edge solar roof tiles, delivering instant energy savings while
Incredible Waterfront 4-Bed, 3-Bath Pool Home in Apollo Beach! Welcome to your Florida paradise in the private, gated Treviso community of Apollo Beach. This stunning waterfront residence is designed for the ultimate coastal lifestyle. From the moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by sweeping views of your custom pool, relaxing hot tub, and private boat dock — all perfectly set against a
NEW Exterior Paint in March 2026! Welcome to this stunning residence located in the highly sought-after WaterSet community, where elegance meets modern convenience. Step inside to find beautiful granite countertops, crown molding, and plantation shutters that bring timeless charm to every room. The open layout is enhanced by soaring vaulted ceilings, creating a light and airy atmosphere
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
The waterfront community of Anchor Point has a lovely 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom fully furnished turn key townhouse style condo unit for sale. This is the perfect unit to call home, use as a second home or as an investment for monthly rental. The unit has been updated with easy care wood look ceramic plank tile throughout the first floor. New shaker style white cabinet, granite countertops, white
**Turnkey 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. 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 gated waterfront communities. Fully furnished and truly
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to this beautifully upgraded 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home located in the highly desirable Harbour Isles community. Designed with both comfort and entertaining in mind, this move-in-ready property showcases stylish finishes and thoughtful upgrades throughout. Step into the open-concept living area featuring striking rock wall accents and a
Unmatched WATERFRONT Paradise – Luxurious 5-Bedroom, 7-Bath Pool Home in the gated Community of Symphony Isles. Welcome to your dream waterfront oasis! This stunning, grand home redefines luxurious living with five spacious bedrooms, seven spa-inspired bathrooms, and all the bells and whistles you could desire including high impressive ceilings, and lots of natural light. This home is ideal for
Live Where Every Day Feels Like a Vacation! This stunning waterfront home with private 12,000 lb. boat lift and dock (with water and electric) offers direct bay access right from your backyard—the ultimate setting for boating, fishing, and sunset cruises. Completely remodeled in 2024, this coastal retreat combines luxury, comfort, and peace of mind. Inside, you’ll find elegant ceramic tile
# Welcome Home to 6811 Monarch Park Drive, Apollo Beach This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of quality construction and outdoor living that Florida dreams are made of. Spanning 1,749 square feet, this thoughtfully designed home showcases recent upgrades throughout, including a 2-year-old roof, year-old flooring, and updated HVAC system. **Outdoor
STUNNING HOME IN DESIRABLE WATERSET!! This immaculate triple-split floor plan features 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, plus a den, and showcases unparalleled elegance, better than a model! The home offers an open layout with beautiful porcelain wood-look tile flooring throughout and coffered ceilings with wood in-lay in the foyer, living room, and primary bedroom, enhanced by custom shiplap accents in
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
This gorgeous waterfront pool home would be ideal as a primary, second home, or investment property! Currently used as a second home and short term rental, this is like resort living and a boater's paradise. Ready to live the good life? Live the Apollo Beach lifestyle where others go to vacation. When not using, let it bring cash flow. This updated bi-level pool home delivers open, light-filled
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.
Boater's Paradise in Apollo Beach! This all-inclusive rental comes furnished with all utilities included in the rent. Boat Dock is available for additional $150 a month!! Second Floor condo features 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with an open floor plan. Minimum rental is 6 months and no pets. Community laundry room is conveniently located right outside the condo unit. Enjoy your morning coffee
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
Located in the highly sought-after Waterset community in Apollo Beach, this spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom townhome offers modern living with an open and functional layout. The main floor features a bright open-concept living area and a large kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, solid wood cabinetry, and an oversized island, perfect for entertaining. A rare first-floor
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
***Move in with LITTLE TO NO SECURITY DEPOSIT USING OBLIGO!***The two-story Boston home design embraces space as soon as you walk through the front door. A large and open interconnected family room, dining room and kitchen which includes GRANITE AND STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES are perfect for entertaining, while a spacious loft on the second floor can be used as a media or game room. The
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
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to your dream waterfront home! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence + a Den/Flex room is perfectly situated on a serene canal, offering tranquil water views and direct access for boating or kayaking enthusiasts. Step inside to discover a spacious open-concept living area with modern finishes throughout, including a
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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