Is Ballast Point Park free?

Yes, Ballast Point Park is completely free to visit. There's free parking on-site.

Can you fish at Ballast Point Park?

Yes! The fishing pier is one of the highlights. Popular catches include snook, redfish, and snapper. A Florida fishing license is required for adults.

Is there a playground at Ballast Point Park?

Yes, there's a large modern playground suitable for ages 2–12, plus open lawn areas for running around.

Ballast Point Park

Name: Ballast Point Park
Address: 5300 Interbay Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33611, US
Telephone: +1 813-274-8615
Rating: 4.7

1 / 5

Rating

4.7(6,041)

Price

Free

Duration

2–3 hours

Best Ages

3–14

About

Ballast Point Park sits on the southern tip of Tampa's Interbay peninsula, offering one of the best free family outings in the city. The waterfront park features a large playground with modern equipment, a long fishing pier extending into Tampa Bay, open grassy fields, and beautiful bay views at every turn. Kids can watch pelicans dive and dolphins cruise by while families picnic under the shade trees.

The playground is well-maintained with age-appropriate equipment for toddlers through elementary-age kids. With restrooms, ample parking, and a relaxed vibe, Ballast Point is a local favorite for weekend mornings. The fishing pier is one of the most accessible in Tampa — bring a rod and some shrimp and you'll likely catch something within the hour.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Nursing / Changing

true

Kid Meals

nearby

Setting

Outdoor

Rainy Day

Not ideal

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Fall through spring is ideal.

Wait Times

No wait times — free public park.

Nearby Food

Beef 'O' Brady's and several waterfront restaurants along Bayshore Blvd within a mile.

Why Kids Love It

Kids love watching the boats come in and out of Tampa Bay, fishing off the pier, and running through the large playground. The waterfront setting makes everything feel like an adventure.