Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
At the North End of Pinellas County is a Greek Gem
Yianni's Greek Cuisine and Yiamas Martini Bar are on Dodecanese Boulevard, the main drag close to the docks. Mama's Greek Cuisine is on Athens Street. Cafe Greko and Sponge Factory are together on Arfaras Boulevard. Among shops are Simone's Gifts, Seaside Paradise, Pandora and Gloria's Gifts.
There are deep-sea fishing captains available for charter at the sponge docks near the Tarpon Springs Aquarium, as well as dolphin watch cruises and sightseeing tours to the Anclote Key lighthouse.
The main road through Tarpon Springs is U.S. Highway 19, running north to south. It is possible to get there on public transportation on Pinellas County transit buses.
Every year a Greek Orthodox Church bishop throws a cross into the bay near the sponge docks, and a group of divers chase after it. This is the annual Epiphany Celebration, and the diver who retrieves the cross from the bottom and gives it back to the bishop is declared the winner and hero, according to Greek tradition.
At Historic downtown Tarpon Springs is the Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral. The downtown art and antiques district provides great Greek food along with live music and entertainment. Near downtown is Fred Howard Park, which covers 155 acres and is a great family beach for snorkeling and watching the kite surfers.
Ashley's Victorian Haven Bed and Breakfast, the East Lake Bed and Breakfast, and the Spring Bayou Inn are among recommended places to stay. National chains such as Quality Inn are only found along U.S. Highway 19, which runs north-south to the east of Tarpon Springs.
Tarpon Springs is a quiet laid-back old Florida town. Plus, if you can't get to the Greek Islands, this is the next best thing to being there.
Published by FGual
I have been a writer, website developer, and internet marketer since 2006. Presently living in sunny Florida after many years in the snowy midwest. View profile
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