
Treasure Island Beach
Discover the powdery sands and stunning sunsets of Florida's Treasure Island, or the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of its California namesake.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, perfect beach day

Treasure Island Beach
Best Time
Less crowded, perfect beach day

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the powdery sands and stunning sunsets of Florida's Treasure Island, or the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of its California namesake.
"Treasure Island Beach is exactly what the name promises—an actual treasure."

🎯 Confirm Your Treasure Island
Double-check if you're heading to Treasure Island, FL or CA! They offer very different experiences.
🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy
GPS can be misleading. Look for designated lots or be prepared for hotel parking confusion.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Powder-Soft Sand
Treasure Island, Florida
Experience incredibly soft, white sand that feels like powdered sugar underfoot. Perfect for long walks and relaxation.

Dramatic Cliffs & Turquoise Waters
Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach, California
Discover a hidden gem with stunning turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and a picturesque sea cave.

Breathtaking Sunsets
Treasure Island, Florida
Witness spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, painting the sky in fiery oranges and golden hues.

The Arch & Tide Pools
Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach, California
Explore the unique arch formation and fascinating tide pools, teeming with marine life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Treasure Island's Two Personalities
Parking & Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Confirm Your Treasure Island
Double-check if you're heading to Treasure Island, FL or CA! They offer very different experiences.
🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy
GPS can be misleading. Look for designated lots or be prepared for hotel parking confusion.
🐚 Seashell Hunting
Mornings are best for finding seashells and sand dollars on the Florida beach.
🌊 Explore the Sea Cave
Discover the hidden sea cave at the California location – a true natural wonder.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Confirm Your Treasure Island
Double-check if you're heading to Treasure Island, FL or CA! They offer very different experiences.
🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy
GPS can be misleading. Look for designated lots or be prepared for hotel parking confusion.
🐚 Seashell Hunting
Mornings are best for finding seashells and sand dollars on the Florida beach.
🌊 Explore the Sea Cave
Discover the hidden sea cave at the California location – a true natural wonder.
🌅 Stay for the Sunset
Don't miss the incredible sunsets in Florida; they're a major highlight for visitors.
💰 Beach Gear Rentals
Chairs, umbrellas, and paddleboards are available for rent, but factor in the cost.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Treasure Island Beach is widely praised for its beautiful sand, clear waters, and stunning sunsets, offering a relaxing escape. Visitors appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and affordability, though some note that GPS navigation for parking can be inaccurate. Overall, it's considered a worthwhile destination for a classic beach experience.
"I came to this beach for the first time and I loved it. From the convenience of Publix literally across the street to the low price parking. This was such a great experience. You have everything you need close by as far as stores and the beach itself is gorgeous. The sand definitely feels like powder sugar lol and tons of seashells to capture. I will for sure come back here again"
Mileena Cartagena
"Treasure Island Beach is a beautiful, laid-back destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast that offers everything you’d want for a peaceful beach day. From it's soft white sands to the warm, gentle Gulf waters, this beach delivers a classic Florida experience without feeling overly commercialized.
The beach is impressively clean and spacious, making it ideal for spreading out a towel or renting a cabana. The shoreline is calm and shallow, which is perfect for a couple's day out or anyone looking to float and relax. You’ll often find seashells and sand dollars, especially in the morning.
One of the standout features is the sunset—it’s breathtaking. Visitors routinely stay well into the evening just to witness the sky turn golden and fiery orange as the sun dips into the Gulf. Bring a camera or just take it in.
You can rent paddleboards, beach chairs, umbrellas, and more, but be prepared for some extra costs—the convenience comes at a price. That said, everything is easy to access.
Restrooms and outdoor showers are available and generally clean. Beach mats and ramps make parts of the beach accessible, which is a plus for families.
Treasure Island Beach strikes a great balance between relaxation and activity. Whether you're there to unwind, take long walks, or catch a perfect sunset, it’s hard to be disappointed. Just plan ahead for parking and bring a little patience if it’s a busy day.
Would I go back? Absolutely."
Lani Jones
"I absolutely loved this beautiful beach. The beach chair rental staff was very nice and the attractions were really fun and worth the prices.. The only thing that could be much better is where Google maps brings you to park. The parking was wrong! It brought us to the parking lot of a hotel."
Myrlaine “Milly” Henry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Treasure Island Beach, Florida, is located west of Tampa. You can drive directly to the beach. For parking, look for designated lots, with some visitors mentioning affordable all-day options around $15. Be mindful that some GPS navigation might incorrectly direct you to hotel parking areas.
Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach is accessible by car. Parking is available, but some visitors have noted that Google Maps can sometimes lead to hotel parking lots, so it's wise to verify your route.
Treasure Island in San Francisco is accessible by car via the Bay Bridge. While it offers unique views, it's also known for some abandoned areas, making it a different experience than the beach destinations.
Public transport options can vary. In Florida, local bus services might connect to the Treasure Island area. In California, consider local Laguna Beach transit or ride-sharing services to reach the beach, especially if you're concerned about parking.
Driving to Treasure Island, Florida, is generally straightforward via local roads from the Tampa Bay area. For the California location, expect coastal traffic, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, Treasure Island Beach in both Florida and California does not have an entrance fee for public access to the beach itself. However, parking fees may apply.
Beaches are typically open from sunrise to sunset. While there are no strict closing times for the sand, any facilities like restrooms or concessions may have specific operating hours.
No, advance ticket booking is not required for general beach access. It's a public beach. If you plan on renting equipment or participating in specific activities, you might need to arrange those separately.
Standard beach rules usually apply: no glass containers, respect for wildlife, and proper disposal of trash. Check local ordinances for any specific restrictions on bonfires or alcohol.
The iconic Thunderbird Beach Resort in Treasure Island, FL, has been demolished due to hurricane damage. It is being rebuilt from the ground up.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Treasure Island, Florida, offers a laid-back beach experience with opportunities for water activities like jet ski rentals, paddleboarding, and swimming. You can also enjoy long walks on the soft sand and explore nearby shops and restaurants.
In Laguna Beach, Treasure Island Beach is famous for its dramatic cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and a unique sea cave. It's also a great spot for exploring tide pools and enjoying scenic views.
Yes, Treasure Island Beach in Florida is family-friendly with calm, shallow waters perfect for children. Beach mats and ramps also enhance accessibility for families.
Restrooms and outdoor showers are available at Treasure Island Beach, Florida, and are generally kept clean, adding to the convenience for visitors.
Absolutely! Treasure Island Beach, especially in Florida, is known for its abundance of seashells and sand dollars, particularly in the mornings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Treasure Island, Florida, has numerous beach bars, restaurants, and dining options nearby, offering a variety of cuisines. Some visitors recommend places like the Boardwalk Grill.
While Treasure Island Beach itself is more focused on natural beauty, the surrounding Laguna Beach area offers a wide array of dining experiences, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Bringing your own food and non-alcoholic drinks is generally permitted at Treasure Island Beach. However, glass containers are usually prohibited for safety reasons.
In Florida, a Publix grocery store is conveniently located across the street from Treasure Island Beach, making it easy to grab snacks and drinks.
In Florida, expect classic beach town fare, including seafood, casual American dining, and beach bars. Laguna Beach offers a more diverse culinary scene with options ranging from fresh Californian cuisine to international flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities at Treasure Island, Florida, include capturing the soft, powdery sand, the clear Gulf waters, and especially the vibrant sunsets. The beach itself offers a picturesque backdrop.
Treasure Island Beach in California is incredibly photogenic due to its dramatic cliffs, the unique arch formation, the clear turquoise water, and the tide pools. It's often described as looking unreal.
Treasure Island in San Francisco offers unique photographic opportunities with its skyline views of the city and the Bay Bridge, as well as its more industrial and sometimes abandoned landscapes.
For the Florida location, early mornings are great for soft light and fewer crowds, while evenings are unparalleled for sunset photography. In California, morning light can highlight the turquoise water beautifully.
Drone usage is often restricted in public beach areas and parks due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to check local regulations for both Florida and California locations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families visiting the California location, the tide pools offer an educational and engaging experience for children, allowing them to discover small marine creatures. While the waves might be a bit more active than in Florida, the scenic beauty and unique rock formations provide plenty of visual interest. Remember to supervise children closely, especially around the cliffs and tide pools.
💰 Budget Travelers
In California, the main cost is typically parking. The beach itself is free to access, making it a great option for enjoying stunning scenery without a hefty price tag. Pack a picnic to enjoy the views without the expense of a restaurant meal.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For California, the dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, sea cave, and arch are prime subjects. The unique geological formations and vibrant water colors make for stunning, almost surreal images. Be mindful of tide times for the best tide pool photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Two Treasure Islands: Florida vs. California
In contrast, Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach, California, is a smaller, more dramatic cove known for its breathtaking turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and unique geological features like a sea cave and an arch. This location is a photographer's dream and offers a more intimate beach experience, perfect for exploring tide pools and enjoying the picturesque coastal scenery.
While both share the 'Treasure Island' name, they cater to different desires: one for classic sunbathing and relaxation, the other for dramatic natural beauty and exploration. Understanding which Treasure Island you're visiting will significantly shape your expectations and itinerary.
Experiencing the Sunsets and Seashells of Florida's Treasure Island
For those who enjoy beachcombing, seashell hunting is a rewarding activity at Treasure Island, Florida. Visitors frequently mention finding an abundance of seashells and sand dollars, especially during the early morning hours when the beach is less disturbed. The sand itself is often described as incredibly soft, like powdered sugar, making walks along the shore even more pleasant.
While the beach offers a peaceful escape, it's also equipped with conveniences. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are readily available, though they come at an additional cost. Restrooms and outdoor showers are also on-site, contributing to a comfortable and convenient beach day for all visitors.
Discovering the Natural Wonders of California's Treasure Island Beach
A significant attraction is the hidden sea cave and the unique arch formation that visitors can explore. These geological wonders add an element of adventure to a visit. The tide pools at Treasure Island Beach are also a highlight, providing a fascinating glimpse into marine life when the tide recedes. It's a place where you can truly connect with the coastal ecosystem.
This beach is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike, offering postcard-perfect views that many find hard to believe are real. The combination of soft sand, clear water, and striking rock formations makes it a memorable destination for anyone seeking a picturesque coastal experience in Southern California.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit