Treasure Island Beach in Florida

Treasure Island Beach is a smaller beach located in Pinellas County Florida. According to the city of Treasure Island, Treasure Island beach is approximately a three mile stretch of beach on the Gulf of Mexico. There are many wonderful, and creative stories that surround Treasure Island which brings beach combers, and treasure hunters from all around the world to this small city. Having grown up in Florida, I heard countless stories of pirates and their buried treasure. Tales of ship wrecks just off shore were also very common, and needless to say each of these ships held a treasure of silver, and gold. After all there had to be some truth behind the stories right? Why else would they call this particular beach Treasure Island?

Treasure Island was first discovered by Timucan Indians in 300 A.D. The Timucan Indians would commonly trade goods with other Indians nearby, and usually keep to themselves. However with the arrival of Panfilio de Narvaez 1528 things would quickly change. Panfilio de Narvaez a Spaniard sailor thought that he would find treasure on the Island. Sadly there was no treasure to be found, and Panfilio de Narvaez left the Island but not before killing a countless amount of Timucan Indians.

Treasure Island wasn't lost completely, after the Spaniards left Treasure Island became a fishing community. Small shacks lined the beach. The main job source on Treasure Island at the time was fishing, and hunting turtles. In the 1900's Treasure Island began to change with the times. A small hotel opened up, and a ferry was available to take travelers to and from the Island. A hotel owner and his wife buried several small wooden chest, and then found them claming they were full of treasure. This is how Treasure Island got it's name.

With the years passing Treasure Island quickly grew into a vacation spot. By the 1950's there was a bridge for easy travel, several hotels to stay at, and small local general stores. Now there are countless hotels both national chain, and mom & pop on Treasures Island. You will also find, houses, condos, apartments, gas stations, grocery stores, and plenty of places to eat. If you just want to visit without staying the night Treasure Island has a public parking area that will accommodate 67 vehicles. You will also find restrooms, a play area for children, a snack shop, and public showers connect to the public access parking facility.

Treasure Island is a laid back community. The cost of lodging will run you between $50 - $200 a night, directly on the beach, and slightly cheaper across the street. Feel free to bring a metal detector and sand sifter. Even tough there is no proof of missing treasure on Treasure Island it is not unheard of for beach goers to loose jewelry or change. Besides the breath taking beauty that the Gulf of Mexico offers is a priceless treasure in itself. For more information on Treasure Island please visit www.treasureislandflorida.org