This hidden beach north of Tampa is a pastel wonderland

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From brightly colored pink, blue and yellow beach homes dotting the coastlines to the nearly endless murals and commercial venues to match, it appears that "Florida" and "pastel colors" are nearly synonymous--and there's a beach to prove it just north of Tampa! Alfred A McKethan Pine Island Park is a colorful wonderland worth a daytrip! 

Though beaches this far above Tampa aren't known for their big waves and sugar sand, don't be fooleld: this family-friendly park is nothing short of spectacular.

Boasting tons of amenities including a playground, changing rooms, pavilions, a volleyball court, and plenty of palm trees scattered along the shore, perfect for hanging your hammock up on, it's no doubt that this park with colorful walkways, thatch roofs and island-vibes will have you feeling like you're actually lost somewhere in the Keys. Believe me when I say that no amount of photos could do it justice.

Even better yet, you don't have to pack a lunch or walk far to find some food. The colorful cafe on site offers a myriad of options from ice cream treats to fish tacos and it's only a short stroll down the pathway away. 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the park is often overlooked as it's so close to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, but that just means you can rest assured knowing it's not nearly as packed as many of the beaches farther south. 

It's also a great location for catching the sunset after spending a day kayaking on the local springs! 

​Entrance to the park is $5, paid by credit card via a man-operated booth at the front. 

The park is open daily from 8a.m. to sunset and is located at 10840 Pine Island Drive, Spring Hill, FL 34607.

Find out more about the park through it's official website page here.