Courtney Campbell Causeway - Tampa
The Courtney Campbell Causeway (State Road 60) connects Tampa to Clearwater across upper Tampa Bay. This 10-mile bridge and causeway features a paved recreation trail, multiple beach areas, kayak launches, and panoramic views of Tampa Bay. At sunset, the causeway offers some of the most dramatic views in the Tampa Bay area.
Route Overview
The causeway runs east-west across Old Tampa Bay between Tampa and Clearwater. The Ben T. Davis Beach on the Tampa side offers swimming and picnicking. The recreation trail runs the full length, popular with cyclists and joggers. Several pullouts along the causeway allow for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the bay views.
Stops Along the Way
1. Ben T. Davis Beach
A popular city beach on the Tampa side of the causeway. The beach features white sand, picnic tables, restrooms, and views of the Courtney Campbell bridge stretching across the bay.
2. Courtney Campbell Trail
A 10.5-mile paved trail running alongside the causeway. Perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling with unobstructed bay views. The trail connects to the Upper Tampa Bay Trail on the Tampa side.
3. Causeway Kayak Launch
Multiple kayak and paddleboard launch points along the causeway provide access to the shallow waters of upper Tampa Bay. Paddle among mangrove islands and look for dolphins, manatees, and rays.
4. Rocky Point Golf Course Views
The stretch near Rocky Point offers views of the golf course, Tampa International Airport planes on approach, and the Tampa skyline across the bay.
5. Safety Harbor Spa and Waterfront
Just north of the causeway, the charming town of Safety Harbor has a historic spa resort, waterfront parks, and a walkable Main Street with restaurants and boutiques.
Driving Tips
- The causeway can be windy - keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, especially in larger vehicles
- Sunset drives from east to west are spectacular but can cause sun glare - bring sunglasses
- Parking along the causeway pullouts fills quickly on weekends - arrive early for kayaking or fishing
- Speed limit is 50 mph on the causeway - respect it as there are often cyclists and pedestrians on the adjacent trail
Official Resources
Group Road Trip? BusBrother provides charter bus service along this route. Let a professional driver handle the road while your group enjoys the scenery. Get a free quote.