Located between Tampa and Bradenton on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Apollo Beach began as the dream of a family who started their farm on a mangrove swamp. Over the decades, many unsuccessful development attempts were made. The area has seen a succession of names, but Apollo Beach was chosen in honor of the developing space program and the abundant sunshine. Today, the town thrives with a population of more than 14,000, and year-round fishing, tourism and boating opportunities.
Good food, great fun! Head to Apollo's Bistro, a casual spot where the seared tuna and seafood risotto are local favorites. Beef 'O' Brady's also will serve up hearty pub grub and there are plenty of TVs for watching your favorite game. San Remo Pizza Restaurant has loyal fans and Kimi's Ice Cream & Sweets also has quite a following!
Mixed real estate market! Over the past two years, local appreciation rates have been near the highest in the country. The supply of homes is reasonably low and sales prices continue to climb, so it may be a good time to find a rent to own home, particularly if you are interested in a townhouse or a condo. Rentals are reasonable and because of the weather, utilities can be low as well. Popular neighborhoods include Town Center, with its canals, houses, and waterfront views, and the area to the south and west of Highway 41, which is almost equally nautical.
Easy lifestyle! Water is king here, which means fishing, boating, beach time and manatee viewing! The gentle, giant sea creatures are attracted by the warm waters around the power plant, which maintains a free viewing area as well as nature walks and a small, indoor educational center. You can also book a tee time at the Apollo Beach Golf Club, a Robert Trent Jones course located right on the water.
Home ownership almost 80%! The lifestyle of Apollo Beach makes it a great place to buy a house. With its proximity to both business and recreational opportunities -- it is attractive to people of all walks of life, and about one third of its residents have lived here five years or longer. The cost of living is about one third higher than the state's average, but property values are higher as well, making it a good investment. Apollo Beach is an enclave of calm in a major metropolitan area. All the glitz and glamour of Tampa and St. Pete are available, but you can also get great food and entertainment close to home at Circles Lands End or Incognito Lounge.
Back to nature! If a day at the beach isn't enough, take your tent and camp out overnight or longer at E.G. Simmons Park, just south of Apollo Beach. You can also launch your boat, fish from the pier, go on a bird-watching hike, or rent a kayak around Tampa Bay.