The Best Stops to Make When Driving from Boca Raton, Florida to New Port Richey, Florida
Are you planning a road trip from Boca Raton, Florida to New Port Richey, Florida? This is a relatively long journey, taking about 4.5 hours, but filled with some stunning sights that make the drive more enjoyable. There are numerous places to stop and stretch your legs, take some photos, and explore the lovely towns in the area.
In this blog post, we’ve listed down the top places to see when driving from Boca Raton, Florida, to New Port Richey, Florida. Be sure to make stopovers at these gorgeous places to make your drive more memorable.
1. SunWest Park
About two hours into your journey, you’ll come across SunWest Park. This pristine beach, which is situated in Hudson, Florida, is the perfect backdrop for taking pictures at sunset. The amenities at this park are also fantastic: a beach volleyball court, stand-up paddleboards for rent, and a clean concession stand are just some of the things you’ll find here. You can also go wakeboarding on the man-made lake or relax on a floaty in the sparkling blue water.
2. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
About an hour into your journey to New Port Richey, you’ll find Weeki Wachee Springs State Park- an underwater park like no other. It features a natural spring-fed pool, with crystal clear blue waters. Visitors can watch the world-famous mermaid shows daily. If you’re interested in snorkeling or diving, you’ll find that, too! All equipment rental and dive tours are easily accessible from the park service.
3. Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
About a half-hour outside of New Port Richey is the popular Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks. This historic district is a waterfront, working area that has a 100-year-old history of sponge diving. Today, sponge diving is still done in the area, and visitors can watch and even purchase sponges from shops in the area. You can take a walking tour of Tarpon Springs and learn more about the history of sponge diving while enjoying some authentic Greek cuisine at some of the waterfront restaurants in the area.
4. Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Just outside New Port Richey in Clearwater, you’ll find the Clearwater Marine Aquarium – an educational and interactive attraction that features marine life that is common to the Gulf of Mexico. Guests can see dolphins, stingrays, sharks, otters, turtles, and much more. The aquarium is dedicated to rehabilitating marine life and releasing them back to the wild, which sets it apart from other aquariums. You can also purchase tickets to swim with the dolphins.
5. Anclote Key Preserve State Park
The Anclote Key Preserve State Park is located on an island that’s only accessible by boat. The island has four miles of pristine beaches and endless open blue waters that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. When you travel to the preserve, you can enjoy a boat ride before you arrive at the shores of this untouched paradise in New Port Richey.
Conclusion
Driving from Boca Raton to New Port Richey will undoubtedly make for an unforgettable road trip experience. The serene views of Florida's west coast, the quaint southern towns, and the many attractions along the way offer plenty of opportunities to make your journey memorable.
If you drive not just for the destination but the journey, then be sure to make stopovers at SunWest Park, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Anclote Key Preserve State Park. Don’t forget to bring your camera, sunscreen and a comfortable pair of shoes so you can fully enjoy your stops and destinations. Safe travels!