Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks

Teresa Brown

5 months ago

Highly recommend coming here while traveling through the area. I have been here many times years ago and brought my husband for his first time lately. We were able to eat, shop and experience the culture. It was a great time and we would highly recommend it. The food was amazing and love the sponges and various crafts that they have. Stop in and give them a try.

Michael Holmes

4 months ago

In all the time I've spent in Tampa I've never visited Tarpon Springs. What a totally unique, fascinating place. I was told all the new shops and such have changed it, but I still see it as a slice of old working Florida seaside communities. A wonderful ethnic flavor with genuine blue collar feel. Only a half hour from Tampa. I recommend a full day visit. Walk the shops, have a flavorful lunch and dinner, book a boat trip.

Tessa HD Campbell

3 months ago

Sometimes we avoid tourist attractions, but not this one. It's a must see, and sponge-worthy. Get some authentic a Greek food like grilled octopus or baked goods, have a drink on the water, take in the heritage of sponge diving, have fun shopping. Wear comfy shoes and walk everywhere. You may see manatees surface at the bayou. And dog friendly.

Sylvia Leonard

a year ago

We have never been to a place like this. It's like a small town with boats on one side and shops on the other. The people we spoke with were great, explaining all their procedures of the sponges.. Shoppes were very interesting. If we ever come to Florida again, this definitely is one of our favorite places to come back to. Loved it.

Laura Clarke

a year ago

I love this place! I have been coming here since the early 90s and it has changed a bit over the years but the Greek influence, the history of the sponge docks, wonderful shopping and the great restaurants have not. For a tourist town, the retail prices are very fair. Definitely go down the side streets where we found a wonderful bakery (Fournos) with inexpensive prices and across the street, a great restaurant (Costa's on Athens street) that includes a large Greek salad, sandwich, and a serving of baklava for $10.99. They have plenty of other entrees on the menu as well. Lori's is THE place for handmade olive oil soaps, lotions, and body sponges. The main square had a great little place called Katina's cafe which had cold beer, beverages, Greek wine and snacks for a break from the heat. Friendly service too! Right next store was a wonderful seashell and sponge shop with reasonable prices. Parking cost during the week is also very reasonable. I started coming here when I was single and now I'm still coming back with my adult children. Give it a try for a lovely day out.