The distance to the beach depends on where you are living. From North Tampa and USF area, you will probably spend about 45 minutes driving out to the beach, depending on what beach you are going to. Clearwater beach is the easiest and fastest drive, whereas Ft. DeStoto park may take up to two hours from North Tampa. If you are in South Tampa, you may be a mere 2-25 minutes from the Clearwater or Indian Rocks areas. Those living in Clearwater and St. Pete are lucky, having a 5-15 minute drive to the beach. I-275 and SR 60 make the drive very easy.