Ballast Point is a charming waterfront neighborhood in South Tampa known for its laid-back coastal feel, scenic bay views, and tight-knit community. The name Ballast Point comes from the area’s history, as it was where ships once offloaded ballast before entering Tampa Bay. The area beautifully blends Old Florida character with modern residential living, making it a very nice place to live. Oak tree-lined streets, Spanish moss, parks, and proximity to MacDill Air Force Base make it an attractive option for families and professionals who want a peaceful place to call home in Tampa.
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Where Is Ballast Point Tampa?
Ballast Point is a waterfront neighborhood in South Tampa FL, situated along Hillsborough Bay. It is primarily within the 33611 zip code and is located near neighborhoods like Sun Bay South, Bayshore Beautiful, and Rembrandt Gardens. Ballast Point Tampa FL is roughly 1.7 square miles and offers easy access to Downtown Tampa, which is about 7 miles north (an approximately 15-20 minute drive).
Ballast Point residents can access major roads like Bayshore Boulevard, Interbay Boulevard, MacDill Avenue, and Gandy Boulevard. These routes make it simple to get around South Tampa and beyond. Public transportation is available through HART bus routes, which connect Ballast Point to Downtown Tampa and surrounding areas.
Map of Ballast Point, Tampa
Ballast Point History
In the 1850s, Ballast Point served as a small port where cattle were shipped to Cuba. In the late 19th century, Emelia Chapin developed a waterfront park and pavilion at Ballast Point and, together with her husband’s streetcar company, helped turn it into a popular trolley-accessible destination known as Jules Verne Park (Ballast Point Park today). From there, the surrounding area gradually evolved into the current, largely residential Ballast Point Tampa FL neighborhood, which still retains much of its Old Florida character.
- Ballast Point Tampa FL population: 4,940
- Ballast Point Tamp FL median household income: $84,114
- Median age: 35.8 years
- Racial and ethnic composition: White alone 44% (26% Hispanic), Asian 5%, Black or African American 19%, two or more races 5%
- Foreign-born population: 21.4%
- Educational attainment: High school grads: 90.4% and Bachelor’s degree or higher: 46.2%
What’s It Like Living in Ballast Point Tampa FL?
Living in Ballast Point is quiet and peaceful. It is more residential than some of Tampa’s trendier districts, but that’s exactly what draws people there. Many streets are lined with mature trees, and areas near Ballast Point Park and Bayshore Boulevard make it nice for daily walking, jogging, and enjoying the outdoors; however, most errands still require a car.
Ballast Point is very family-friendly. Its residents include a mix of longtime homeowners and military families with ties to MacDill Air Force Base. You will also find plenty of young professionals in the neighborhood who want a peaceful place to live that’s still close to downtown. There are plenty of retirees and established residents who have lived in the area for years, which gives the neighborhood an inviting feel. South Tampa as a whole is known for its inclusivity and diversity.
While Ballast Point Tampa FL isn’t home to a vibrant nightlife, residents don’t have to travel far for top restaurants, bars, and entertainment in popular areas like Hyde Park, Downtown Tampa, and SoHo. When living in Ballast Point, the vibe is more laid-back waterfront living. You can expect sunset views, neighborhood parks like Ballast Point Park, and a slower pace. Overall, Ballast Point appeals to people who want a comfortable, community-focused environment that still keeps them connected to everything Tampa has to offer.
Things to Do in Ballast Point Tampa FL
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You’ll find some of the best places to eat in Ballas Point Tampa FL. Top restaurants include Mad Dogs and Englishmen Tampa, a British-inspired gastropub. Choose from a large selection of draft beers and British bar food. There is also patio seating available. Another great spot for people living in Ballast Point is Bayshore Mediterranean Grill, a casual Turkish restaurant featuring classics like grilled kebabs, falafel, and stuffed grape leaves. And finally, Leons Lobstah Shack is a popular Ballast Point Pier restaurant serving up lobster rolls, lobster bisque, fried shrimp, and more.
When it comes to shopping in Ballast Point Tampa FL, local is the way to go. Find unique plants, pots, and decor at Sprouts Gardening. Modern Herbal Apothecary offers a wide range of natural remedies to support your health and wellness.
If you’re wondering what to do in Ballast Point Tampa FL, start with a visit to dog-friendly Ballast Point Park. The kids will love the park’s playground and splash pad, and there are nice picnic areas where you can share a meal while enjoying views of Downtown Tampa and Hillsborough Bay.
The Ballast Point Pier Tampa is also located at Ballast Point Park, where visitors are free to fish.
Another great park option is MacDill 48 Park, which offers a leisurely, shaded walking trail around a peaceful lake filled with fish and turtles. There are benches situated around the lake where you can sit and birdwatch, and there is plenty of free parking in the area.
The Tampa Yacht & Country Club is a private, members-only yacht club that also ranks as one of the fun things to do in Ballast Point Tampa FL. Members enjoy amenities such as a tennis court, sauna, swimming pool, and poolside bar. There are also separate casual and formal dining options. The club hosts many events throughout the year for members and their guests.
The City of Tampa operates several parks throughout Ballast Point Tampa FL for residents to enjoy. Learn more about them at the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation website.
Here is a handy list of the mentioned shopping destinations, restaurants, and things to do:
- Mad Dogs and Englishmen, 4914 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33611, 813-832-3037
- Bayshore Mediterranean Grill, 6102 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33611, 813-805-6444
- Leons Lobstah Shack, 5314 Interbay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33611, 813-831-2112
- Sprouts Gardening, 5110 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33611, 813-731-7632
- Modern Herbal Apothecary, 6412 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33611, 813-421-0243
- Ballast Point Park, 5300 Interbay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33611, 813-274-8615
- MacDill 48 Park, 6415 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33611
- Tampa Yacht & Country Club, 5320 Interbay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33611, 813-831-1611
Schools in Ballast Point Tampa FL
If you’re planning on moving to Ballast Point and have children, a good neighborhood near great schools is no doubt important to you. There is one public school in Ballast Point Tampa FL, and it is Ballast Point Elementary School. Ballast Point Elementary is in the Hillsborough County Public Schools district, which serves over 210,000 students and is the seventh-largest school district in the nation. There are no private schools, colleges, or universities in the area, but several top options are nearby.
For students and anyone living in Ballast Point Tampa FL, the Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library offers many free opportunities for continued learning.
Is Ballast Point Tampa FL Safe?
Ballast Point Tampa FL is an incredibly safe place to live. Its total crime rate is 50% below the national average, and its violent crime rate is 71% below the national average. Residents in Ballast Point feel safe day and night when walking through the area.
Learn more about safety in Ballast Point Tampa FL, and the wider Tampa area, along with the 929 officers who serve the area, via the Tampa Police Department website.
Ballast Point Tampa Real Estate
The median home price in Ballast Point Tampa FL is $851,000, and the median price per square foot is $327. There are many historic homes and mid-century bungalows in the area, along with newer single-family builds and condos. Lots tend to be on the larger side. If you’re considering moving to Ballast Point, start your research here: Ballast Point Tampa home for sale.
If you prefer to rent, then be aware that the average rent in Tampa FL is $2,012 (RentCafe), which is significantly lower than the national average of $1,737 for a 928 square foot apartment. There are a decent number of apartment rentals in Ballast Point, including at area complexes like The Artisan On MacDill, and Mode at Ballast Point.
Ballast Point Tampa FL FAQs
Is Ballast Point a Good Place to Live?
Ballast Point is a good place to live if you want a quiet, waterfront neighborhood in South Tampa. Located near Hillsborough Bay and MacDill Air Force Base, it offers a relaxed residential feel with parks, scenic walking areas, and a mix of families, military households, and professionals. Ballast Point is less walkable for daily errands and has limited nightlife; however, it’s just a brief 15–20-minute commute to Downtown Tampa, where more things to do and shopping options are available.
Is Ballast Point Park Worth Visiting?
Ballast Point Park is worth visiting for its stunning waterfront views, Ballast Point Pier, and relaxed atmosphere. The park is located along Hillsborough Bay and offers shaded picnic areas, a fun playground, walking paths, and a public boat ramp. Visitors of all ages enjoy views of passing boats and occasional dolphin sightings. Although it’s smaller than some Tampa parks, its peaceful setting and location near Bayshore Boulevard make it a favorite neighborhood spot for outdoor fun.
Is Ballast Point Tampa Safe?
Yes, Ballast Point Tampa is generally considered safe. It’s a residential neighborhood in South Tampa known for its quiet streets, nice homes, and community-centered atmosphere. Overall, the crime rates in Ballast Point Tampa FL are lower than in other more densely populated parts of Tampa, Florida. Residents typically describe the area as one that is peaceful, with regular outdoor activities happening along Bayshore Boulevard and nearby waterfront parks.
Moving to Ballast Point? We Can Help!
When you’re ready to make Ballast Point home, our helpful movers at 2 College Brothers Moving & Storage are ready. We’re the best Ballast Point Tampa movers for the job, guaranteed. Our moving services include more than just long distance and local moving, we also offer military moving, piano moving, and more. Call us today at 813-922-1528 for a free quote.
