Attracted by brilliant blue water, palm trees, shore birds and tropical breezes, the Boca Ciega Bay area is surrounded by millions of residents. Here in St. Petersburg it's all about living on the waterfront, whether it's fishing, sailing, kayaking or wildlife watching, the bay area entertains millions of residents and guests. A city filled with so many interesting museums, art galleries, ethnic restaurants and theaters, many patrons, who live on the waterfront, use their boats instead of driving.
   Today’s biggest challenge on the bay is maintaining water quality. With so many people contributing small amounts of pollution, waste, fertilizers, runoff and debris, many of the pollutants eventually end up in the Bay. Developed in 1968 and 1972, two aquatic preserves have slowed bay-side development. Dredging and finger filling the shoreline has ceased. Protecting unspoiled areas of mangroves, oyster beds, sea grass beds and coral communities, these aquatic preserves hope to sustain these spawning grounds for fish, shrimp, shellfish and other aquatic creatures. More than 70 percent of all sea creatures spend their development stages in Florida's inland bays and tidal rivers. Home to brown pelicans, roseate spoonbills, herons, dolphins, sea turtles and manatees, wildlife and sea creatures are one of the state's largest natural attractions.
   Residents and visitors alike must do their part to protect Florida's waters and nurture these essential habitats for future generations.

     Map and Boater's Guide