Things To Do
in East Lake
East Lake is a lakeside community in Pinellas County, nestled between the Gulf Coast and Tampa Bay. It offers easy access to boating, fishing, and nature, while remaining within reach of vibrant Gulf Coast towns. The area blends suburban calm with proximity to beaches, parks, and cultural attractions in nearby Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, and Clearwater.
With scenic water views, green spaces, and a relaxed coastal vibe, East Lake serves as a convenient base for both outdoor adventures and easy day trips to the city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the East Lake Historic Center, where you can admire the preserved architecture and learn about the local history. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a charming café nearby, savoring local specialties and freshly brewed coffee. As you stroll through the historic district, stop at the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
After lunch, embark on a guided walking tour that delves deeper into East Lake's fascinating past. Visit the East Lake Museum, which showcases artifacts and stories from the region's early settlers. Spend some time at the park, enjoying the lush scenery and perhaps a picnic with local delicacies.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table dining experience. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms, paired with local wines. Afterward, take a leisurely walk by the lake to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and watch the stars come out.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a nearby diner before heading out to East Lake State Park. Spend your morning exploring the well-marked nature trails that wind through lush forests and along the sparkling lake. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks, where you can take in the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. After lunch, rent a kayak or canoe to paddle on the lake, experiencing the tranquility and stunning scenery from the water. Don’t forget to snap some pictures of the breathtaking vistas.
Return to your accommodation for a quick refresh before heading out for an evening of relaxation. Visit a local brewery or wine bar to sample regional beverages while mingling with locals. Enjoy a casual dinner at a lakeside restaurant, relishing the calming sounds of water lapping against the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $120-220 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to a network of lakes and coastal beaches within short drives
- Parks, nature preserves, and outdoor activities in a relaxed, family-friendly setting
- Particularly car-dependent; limited dense urban walkability within East Lake itself
- Tourist attractions can be seasonal, so some services vary by time of year
Places to Visit in East Lake
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful fishing boats, Greek-influenced architecture, and water reflections create vibrant photographic opportunities as the sun sinks.
Waterfront perspective with boats, palm trees, and dusky skies; ideal for sunset shots over the marina.
Wildlife-rich wetlands and tall pines along raised boardwalks—perfect for nature photography and birdwatching.
Expansive white-sand beach with dunes, sea oats, and sweeping Gulf views—great for wide-angle coastal photos.
Calm lake vistas, shoreline grasses, and occasional wildlife along quiet shoreline trails.
Colorful storefronts, murals, and harbor views—great for candid street photography and skyline silhouettes.
Food in East Lake
East Lake Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A crunchy shrimp sandwich on a soft roll with remoulade, common at waterfront eateries near Tarpon Springs and Dunedin.
Must-Try!
Florida’s iconic tart-sweet dessert, often served with whipped cream or slices of lime zest.
Roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread; widely available in the East Lake corridor and nearby towns.
Fresh local fish with cabbage slaw, lime, and salsa, a common staple at coastal grills.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets along Dodecanese Avenue offering seafood bites, pastries, spices, and sponge goods—great for tasting and grabbing a quick bite.
Seasonal produce, local crafts, and ready-to-eat treats along the waterfront on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or small talk is common; people often use first names after a casual acquaintance is established.
Respect posted safety rules near lakes and beaches; avoid swimming alone in unsupervised waters.
Residential areas tend to be quieter in the evenings; be mindful of noise in neighborhoods late at night.
Safety
Tipping in East Lake
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip 15–20% at restaurants (pre-tax). At bars, $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the bill. Taxis and ride-hailing services typically expect 10–20% tips. Hotel staff may receive $1–5 per bag or per night for bellhops and housekeeping.
Credit/debit cards, contactless payments, and cash are widely accepted. Most places add tax to the bill; some may add a service charge for large groups.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Hurricane season runs June–November; have a basic plan and monitor local advisories.
Warm days with gradually cooler evenings. Less humidity than peak summer, making outdoor exploration enjoyable and comfortable.
Mild and pleasant; daytime temperatures typically range from the 60s to low 70s F (15–22 C). Great for outdoor sightseeing and beach trips without intense heat.
Flowering landscapes and occasional showers; comfortable temperatures and longer daylight hours for hikes and coastal drives.
East Lake at Night
Hiking in East Lake
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails through wetlands and oak savannas; suitable for longer hikes and wildlife viewing.
Coastal nature trails with salt marsh views and birdwatching opportunities near the island beaches.
Gentle, scenic routes along the waterfront with historical points of interest and views of Clearwater Bay.
Airports
How to reach East Lake by plane.
Major international hub with extensive domestic and international flights; roughly 25–30 miles west of East Lake by car.
Convenient option for domestic flights and low-cost carriers; about 20–30 miles southwest, depending on route.
Alternative for regional flights, located about 60–70 miles south by car.
Major national hub offering extensive connections; roughly 85–100 miles north by highway, depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households are established families seeking a suburban, lake-side lifestyle near beaches and city amenities.
A portion of residents enjoy the milder winters and coastal access, contributing to a laid-back community atmosphere.
Proximity to Tampa and scenic towns draws visitors and residents who work in the broader metro area.
Snowbird and temporary residents contribute to seasonal fluctuations in activity and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Numerous courses in and around East Lake offer coastal and tree-lined fairways with scenic views.
Lake Tarpon and Gulf coast waters attract local anglers and visiting hobbyists.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and motor boating are popular on the lakes and nearby bays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting East Lake.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer vegetarian options, including salads, veggie burgers, pasta dishes, and market vegetables. When unsure, ask for sides like grilled vegetables, beans, rice, or roasted potatoes; many places can accommodate dairy-free and egg-free requests with advance notice.