Things To Do
in Cheval
Cheval is a master-planned, primarily residential community on the outskirts of the Tampa Bay region, centered around a well-maintained golf club and lakes. It attracts families and retirees looking for suburban comfort with relatively easy access to Tampa’s urban amenities and Gulf Coast beaches. The neighborhood is characterized by gated sections, tree-lined streets, and manicured common areas that give it a quiet, polished feel.
Visitors can use Cheval as a calm base for day trips to Tampa, Clearwater, and nearby nature preserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk through the serene trails of Cheval Nature Park. The morning mist enhances the beauty of the natural surroundings, making it an ideal time for birdwatching. Capture some stunning photos of the local flora as you wander along the scenic routes.
After a light lunch at a nearby café, gather your friends for a picnic at the park. Spend the afternoon playing frisbee or just relaxing on the grass, soaking in the sunshine. You'll enjoy the charm of the park while sharing laughter and good food.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset over the park's tranquil landscape. The vibrant colors of the sky reflect on the water, creating a picturesque end to your day. Wrap up with a glass of wine or a warm beverage while discussing highlights from the day.
Begin your day with a round of golf at the renowned Cheval Golf Club. The crisp morning air and the immaculate greens provide an invigorating start, whether you're a seasoned golfer or just trying the sport for fun. Don't forget to enjoy a hearty breakfast in the clubhouse afterward.
In the afternoon, take advantage of the club's amenities by relaxing by the pool. Sip on a refreshing drink while rejuvenating under the sun after the morning's activity. Try your hand at tennis or enjoy a leisurely stroll around the picturesque grounds as you soak in the ambiance.
Conclude your day with a dining experience at the club's elegant restaurant. Enjoy a gourmet meal crafted from local ingredients while you watch the evening sky transform. Engage in good conversation as you reminisce about your golfing successes and plans for tomorrow.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (restaurant) | $5-8 |
| 🚕Taxi / ride-share short trip | $10-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100-220 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, well-maintained residential community ideal for families and relaxation
- Close access to Tampa’s cultural attractions and Gulf Coast beaches
- Good golf facilities and outdoor green space
- Mild winters encourage year-round outdoor activity
- Car-dependent with limited local nightlife or tourist infrastructure
- Hot, humid summers and hurricane-season risk
- Fewer public-transport options compared with an urban center
- Some amenities require driving to neighboring towns or Tampa
Places to Visit in Cheval
Visit one of these nice places.
Well-manicured fairways, lakes and mature trees create picturesque, tranquil scenes at sunrise and golden hour.
Reflections on calm water and tree-lined streets with Spanish-style homes produce classic suburban Florida images.
A 30–45 minute drive takes you to dramatic waterfront skyline shots, bridges, and public art—especially striking at sunset.
White sands and wide horizons provide iconic sunrise and sunset compositions; pier and boat shots are plentiful.
Pine flatwoods, coastal wetlands and boardwalks at regional parks are great for bird and nature photography.
Food in Cheval
Cheval Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Tampa staple — roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on pressed Cuban bread; try it in nearby Ybor City at long-standing local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Stone crabs, grouper, and local shrimp are common; find excellent preparations at waterfront restaurants along Clearwater and Tampa bays.
A citrusy Floridian classic — often available at cafés and seafood restaurants across the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A nearby weekly market (seasonal schedules apply) offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan foods — a good spot for picnic supplies.
Downtown and neighborhood events often feature food trucks serving tacos, BBQ, and fusion dishes — check local event calendars for evening markets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Floridians in suburban communities are informal and friendly—small talk and a polite greeting go a long way.
Many neighborhoods are gated or private; observe posted signs and avoid trespassing on private club facilities.
Follow beach rules (no glass, leash laws for dogs), pack out trash, and be mindful of wildlife such as shorebirds and manatees.
Safety
Tipping in Cheval
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in the U.S.: 15–20% at restaurants (pre-tax), $1–2 per drink at bars, $2–5 for valet or bellhop service, and rounding up taxi fares. For exceptional service, tip more.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry some cash for small vendors, tips, or farmers markets where cards may not be taken.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and rainy — frequent afternoon thunderstorms are common, temperatures often in the 80s–90s°F (27–35°C). Prepare for high humidity, sunscreen, and insect repellent; expect afternoon downpours but plenty of sunshine mornings.
Warm and gradually drying; hurricane season (June–November) remains a possibility early in the fall. Temperatures are pleasant and crowds at beaches ease after summer.
Mild and comfortable with lower humidity and cooler nights; daytime highs often in the 60s–70s°F (15–24°C). This is a popular season for outdoor activities and a good time for visits if you prefer cooler weather.
Warm, blooming and busy — spring break and festival season bring more visitors; comfortable temperatures make it ideal for outdoor recreation.
Cheval at Night
Hiking in Cheval
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large Pasco County park with multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use through pine flatwoods and wetlands.
Offers riverfront trails, canoeing and scenic boardwalks through preserved Florida habitats; good for a half-day nature outing.
A local preserve with accessible trails, lakeside views and opportunities for birdwatching and light hiking close to the community.
Airports
How to reach Cheval by plane.
Primary airport for the region — roughly 30–45 minutes by car depending on traffic. Offers domestic and international flights and easy car rental options.
Smaller regional airport serving budget and charter carriers, about 40–60 minutes away depending on route and traffic.
A larger international hub about 1.5–2 hours drive; useful if flying into or out of additional domestic or international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many young families live in Cheval, attracted by suburban amenities, schools, and community activities.
The neighborhood also draws retirees who value the quiet, gated environment and recreational offerings like golf.
Commuters working in Tampa or nearby business parks reside here, enjoying a suburban home base with reasonable access to the city.
Like much of the Tampa Bay region, there is a significant and growing Hispanic population that contributes to local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL) enjoy strong regional support; college football and local youth leagues are also popular.
The Tampa Bay Rays (MLB) draw fans during spring and summer; spring training and local amateur leagues are common.
Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) hockey has a passionate fan base; soccer and youth sports programs are popular among families.
Golf is central to the Cheval community lifestyle, with many residents and visitors enjoying the local course and nearby clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cheval.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in cafes and many Tampa restaurants; request modifications and look for salads, grain bowls, and vegetable-forward entrées.
Larger restaurants and cafés in the Tampa area often provide vegan and gluten-free options. For strict needs, call ahead or use apps to locate vetted eateries.