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!
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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
Timothy Schoonmaker,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Apollo Beach, FL sell after 82 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Apollo Beach, FL over the last 12 months is $499,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to the Roseland, Pulte's largest floor plan in Waterset, perfectly positioned on a premium 1⁄4-acre corner lot with over 4,200 square feet of beautifully designed living space. With Pulte sold out of this model in Waterset, this is a rare opportunity to own one of the community's most desirable homes on one of the most desirable lots. Just one year old and meticulously maintained, this
Welcome to this exceptional waterfront pool home in the gated community of Mira Lago, offering over 3,000 square feet of beautifully updated living space with stunning lake views and an incredible outdoor lifestyle. From the moment you arrive, the oversized 3-car garage, lush landscaping, and inviting entry create a lasting first impression. Inside, you'll find a bright, open floor plan filled
6408 Mayra Shores Lane | 5 Bedrooms | 3 Full Baths | 2 Half Baths | 3,222 Sq Ft | Private Elevator | Rooftop Terrace From the rooftop terrace, you will see Tampa Bay stretching to the horizon, the St. Peter and Tampa skylines to the north, and cruise ships moving through the channel while dolphins work the flats below. This is the view that defines life at 6408 Mayra Shores Lane, a four-story
Welcome to luxury coastal living in Andalucia, a guard-gated waterfront community on the shores of Tampa Bay. Extensively updated in 2026, this impressive Mediterranean-inspired residence features fresh interior and exterior paint, two new HVAC systems, new LED interior and exterior lighting, and new ceiling fans with integrated LED lighting throughout. A third HVAC system was replaced in 2023,
BACK ON THE MARKET - BETTER THAN EVER! Clean 4-Point Inspection Report, Fully Furnished, New Roof (2023), Updated HVAC (2024), Exterior Repainted (2025), and a Full Home Warranty Included with Purchase! Rarely does a villa this updated and move-in ready become available in MiraBay's highly sought-after Seacrest neighborhood. Enjoy true maintenance-free living with HOA services that include lawn
Get this one before she gets away! NO HOA or CDD, large corner lot with a securely fenced back yard, this 3/2/2 boasts updates galore! Upon arrival, you will notice the metal roof (2024) and freshly adorned exterior with an expansive driveway with adequate parking for all your guests! Enter through the brand new front door and experience rooms flooded with natural light, floors easy to maintain,
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. MOTIVATED SELLER! NEW PRICE!! Bellasol is a Luxury Waterfront Marina community of South Tampa! Located in Apollo Beach, this condo is a the second floor corner unit, and convenient to the elevator or stairs. The home features Four Bedrooms, Three Full Baths, an Oversized Two Car Garage (580 sq. ft.) and a DEEDED DOCK #14. The private Front court
Welcome to this beautifully maintained WestBay Sandpiper floor plan located in the highly sought-after Waterset community! Offering 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and an open-concept layout, this home combines style, comfort, and functionality all in one. Inside, you’ll find no carpet anywhere, creating a clean and modern feel throughout the home. The spacious living and dining areas flow
Tucked along 86 feet of saltwater canal frontage, this beautifully updated two-story single-family home blends waterfront living with everyday comfort. Featuring over 2400 sq. ft. of living space, this 3 bedrooms plus a loft, 2 full baths, 1 half bath, and a 2-car garage with additional storage area home offers both flexibility and function. The first-floor primary bedroom provides convenience
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
5% assumable mortgage available!!! Back on the Market with upgrades!!! Welcome to luxury living in the heart of Waterset! This stunning 5BR/4BA Bayshore II by WestBay offers 3,199 sq ft of meticulously designed living space on a beautifully landscaped lot with a spacious 3-car garage. Step into elegance with soaring ceilings, an open-concept layout, and stylish finishes throughout. The gourmet
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
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
NEW Exterior Paint in March 2026! SOLAR PANEL HOME=ENERGY SAVINGS!! Don't wait for New Construction! Beautiful WestBay Home located in the highly sought-after WaterSet community, where elegance meets modern convenience. Home has Solar Panels that provide great energy savings as well!! Triple Split Floor Plan with Three Bedrooms on Main Floor and Four Full Bathrooms which is hard to find! Step
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
Virtually Staged. Spacious 3-Bedroom Townhome Available Now in Belmont! This beautiful home features 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms on the second floor, along with a half bath on the first floor for added convenience. The open-concept floor plan seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas, creating a bright and inviting space perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Upstairs,
Enjoy TWO MONTHS FREE! Live like you're on vacation every day at our brand new community, offering spacious apartments and the largest amenity offering in the area. With a dedicated onsite team, we are committed to providing exceptional customer service. Call or come by today!
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
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
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
Discover a new standard of living at Tapestry East Bay—where coming home feels like a vacation. With impressive finishes, resort-quality amenities, and pet-friendly spaces, our studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartment homes are designed for comfort and style.Nestled in a prime location, Tapestry East Bay offers convenient access to everything you need while providing a vibrant, welcoming community
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
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
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
Yardly® Waterset is an innovative community by Taylor Morrison that elevates apartment living through a thoughtful blend of form and function. In addition to attractive community amenities, we offer maintenance and repair services to our renters, which allows for a low-maintenance lifestyle.
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.
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
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
