Westwood Lakes
,Westwood Lakes is a charming neighborhood located in Tampa, Florida, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. The area is a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts due to the abundance of parks, lakes, and nature preserves. Residents can enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, and bird-watching in the tranquil natural settings.
With its convenient location near shopping, dining, and top-rated schools, Westwood Lakes offers a perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban amenities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Westwood Lakes
morning
:Start your day with a peaceful walk around the beautiful Westwood Lakes. Take in the fresh air and enjoy the scenic views at sunrise.
afternoon
:Visit a local café for lunch and indulge in some homemade pastries. After lunch, rent a kayak to explore the lakes from a different perspective.
evening
:Wrap up your day with a lovely dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Enjoy the sunset while you dine on delicious seafood.
Nature Walks
morning
:Begin with a hike on one of the numerous trails surrounding the lakes. It's a great way to connect with nature and observe local wildlife.
afternoon
:Take a break for a picnic lunch in one of the designated areas. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or exploring the flora.
evening
:Conclude the day with a bonfire at a campsite. Share stories and enjoy s'mores under the stars.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural surroundings and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
- Quiet and peaceful environment, ideal for families and those seeking a slower pace of life.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with various events and activities.
- Close proximity to larger cities provides access to urban amenities while maintaining a rural feel.
- Diverse wildlife and scenic views, contributing to a rich natural environment.
Bad
- Limited access to shopping and dining options compared to urban areas.
- Potential for high seasonal visitor traffic which can lead to congestion.
- Job opportunities may be limited, necessitating commuting to nearby cities for work.
- Infrastructure and public services may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Possible issues with connectivity and internet service in more remote areas.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Kayaking
Explore the serene waters of Westwood Lakes by kayak, enjoying the natural beauty and observing local wildlife.
Hiking
Take advantage of local trails for a refreshing hike, offering scenic views and a chance to connect with nature.
Fishing
Enjoy a peaceful day fishing in the lakes, where various species are abundant, making it perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
Picnicking
Pack a picnic and find a scenic spot by the lakes for a lovely day out with family or friends.
Birdwatching
Bring your binoculars and enjoy birdwatching; the area is home to many different bird species throughout the year.
Cycling
Ride your bike along designated paths and trails to experience the beauty of Westwood Lakes at a leisurely pace.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Westwood Lakes with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Westwood Lake Park
A serene park with walking trails around the lake, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding nature. Ideal for capturing sunset photos.
Lakeside Observation Deck
A dedicated observation deck on the waterfront that provides panoramic views of Westwood Lakes. Great for both daytime and twilight photography.
Westwood Nature Reserve
This natural reserve features lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Numerous trails provide opportunities for nature photography and scenic landscape shots.
Westwood Community Center Rooftop
The rooftop of the community center offers a high vantage point for urban photography, showcasing the lakes and the town's layout.
Sunset Cove
A popular spot known for its breathtaking sunsets. The cove provides an ideal backdrop for silhouette photography against vibrant colors.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Key Lime Pie
A tangy and refreshing dessert made with Key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk on a graham cracker crust. Must-try at the Westwood Lakes Café.
Must-Try!
Barbecue Ribs
Tender and smoky ribs, slow-cooked to perfection and served with a choice of flavorful sauces. Highly recommended at the Lakeside BBQ Shack.
Cuban Sandwich
A delectable sandwich consisting of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread. Best enjoyed at the Corner Cuban Eatery.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Westwood Lakes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Westwood Lakes Farmers' Market
Visit the Farmers' Market to discover locally-grown produce, artisanal crafts, and a variety of food vendors offering delicious street food such as gourmet tacos, organic smoothies, and fresh crepes.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Community Engagement
Participate in local events and community gatherings to foster relationships and show respect for the cultural fabric of Westwood Lakes.
Respect for Diversity
Acknowledge and respect the diverse backgrounds of residents. Embrace inclusive practices and be mindful of cultural differences in communication and social interactions.
Environmental Consideration
Be aware of the natural surroundings and participate in sustainable practices. Respect local parks, wildlife, and clean spaces as a reflection of the community's values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Westwood Lakes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Westwood Lakes, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice in service industries. It is customary to tip waitstaff in restaurants about 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is also expected for other services such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. However, the amount can vary based on the quality of service received.
Payment
Payment practices in Westwood Lakes typically include the use of credit and debit cards, which are widely accepted at most businesses. Mobile payment options have also become popular. Cash is still used, but digital transactions are increasing. Local businesses may have specific payment preferences, so it is advisable for customers to check before making a purchase.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Westwood Lakes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring is one of the best times to visit Westwood Lakes, as the temperatures are mild and the landscape is in full bloom. Expect pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s (°F). This season is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking, with the flora and fauna coming to life.
Summer
Summer in Westwood Lakes can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 80°F. This season is perfect for water activities like swimming and boating in the lakes. Visitors should expect bright sunshine and should be prepared for occasional thunderstorms in the late afternoon. The area can be crowded during peak summer weekends.
Fall
Fall draws visitors to Westwood Lakes for its stunning foliage as the leaves change color. Temperatures are pleasantly mild, ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s (°F). It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the scenery, along with various fall festivals that showcase local harvests and crafts.
Winter
Winter is typically mild in Westwood Lakes, with temperatures ranging from the low 30s to mid-50s (°F). Though snowfall is rare, cooler weather can make it less favorable for certain outdoor activities. However, visitors can enjoy peaceful scenery and quiet trails, perfect for those looking to escape the summer crowds.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Westwood Lakes Park Trail
A scenic trail surrounding Westwood Lakes, perfect for family hikes and bird watching.
Lake Worth Trail
A beautiful hiking trail that offers views of the lake and surrounding wildlife.
John Prince Park
Features various trails through lush greenery and a stunning lake, ideal for a day hike.
Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
A bit further away but offers extensive hiking trails through diverse ecosystems and is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities.
Okeeheelee Park
Includes several hiking paths along with activities like fishing and cycling, suitable for a full outdoor experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Westwood Lakes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Westwood Lakes by plane.
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Located approximately 8 miles northeast of Westwood Lakes, MIA is a major international airport serving South Florida.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Situated around 25 miles north of Westwood Lakes, FLL offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
About 45 miles north of Westwood Lakes, PBI serves the Palm Beach area with both domestic and international flights.
Key West International Airport (EYW)
Located approximately 90 miles south of Westwood Lakes, EYW primarily serves domestic flights but also provides some international travel options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
Predominant racial demographic in Westwood Lakes.
Hispanic or Latino
Significant minority group in the area.
Black or African American
Present in smaller numbers compared to other demographics.
Asian
Small but notable population, contributing to cultural diversity.
Other races
Includes multiracial individuals and other ethnicities.
The Soul of Westwood Lakes
Discover the essence of Westwood Lakes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
A popular team sport played on a rectangular court, where two teams attempt to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop.
Soccer
A widely played team sport where players aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team's net using their feet.
Baseball
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams, where players take turns to bat and run the bases to score runs.
Volleyball
A team sport in which two teams are separated by a net, and points are scored by grounding the ball on the opposing team's court.
Tennis
An individual or doubles sport where players use rackets to hit a ball over a net into the opponent's court.
Swimming
A competitive individual sport that involves various strokes performed in a pool, often featured in schools and local competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many establishments in Westwood Lakes are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with innovative plant-based dishes and substitutes readily available. Epicurean Garden and Lakeside BBQ Shack are great options for vegetarian and vegan fare.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a range of gluten-free offerings at select eateries, including gluten-free pizzas, salads, and gluten-conscious menus at Bayview Bistro and other restaurants.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Westwood Lakes with these cultural adventures.
