Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum

Visited the park on a peaceful Sunday afternoon and had such a wonderful experience. There’s no cost for entry or parking, which is a bonus, and the location itself is both convenient and tucked away enough to feel like a quiet escape. The views of the ocean are absolutely beautiful, calm, and perfect for anyone who loves being near the water. One of the most fascinating parts of the park is learning about the many different types of palm trees from around the world. It’s incredible to see so many variations in one place. The setting feels like a hidden tropical garden. I spent some time sitting on a park bench just soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a truly serene and grounding place. The park is spotless, clearly well-maintained, and offers a sense of calm that’s hard to find in busier areas. This is one of those spots that’s perfect for a romantic stroll, quiet reflection, or simply connecting with nature. I’d highly recommend visiting if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with stunning ocean views and a refreshing sense of tranquility.

This palm arboretum along the ocean front contains over 800 specimens consisting of 235 different palms and 100 different cycads. It was established in 1975 by Gizella Kopsick and has grown over the years from several purchases and donations. There are specimens from many countries including Cuba, Jamaica, India, Mozambique, Madagascar, and many others. The arboretum is in 2 sections with a grass area between them. There is about .5 miles of brick paths, benches, water fountains and rest rooms. There are beautiful views of the ocean. The arboretum is about a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive from the St Pete pier. Big parking lot if you drive. Entry is free as is parking. Highly recommend the beautiful walk on the paved path along the ocean.

We had our wedding ceremony at Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum and it was the most beautiful location. For any brides looking for a wedding ceremony site, we had 160 guests and could have fit 20 more. Extremely cost effective, minimal need for decor, and secluded. The park itself is beautiful, lush, and green!

Right next to Flora Wylie Park, this location offer sand volley ball courts, beach access and bathrooms. Parking was plentiful.

I have spent more breezy quiet midnights and golden hours here with my pup than I can count. It has been my solitary sanctuary; my church. And one of my dog's favorite parks when he was still able to see and walk about. Whenever I leave Florida, this place pulls at my heart to return before too long. I am ever so thankful to Gizella Kopsick for this gift to the people and precious little critters of magical St. Pete.

Just take a moment to find the trail, and you will enter into a different world than the one of beach playing. This one is a wonderful world of palms! I have lived in Florida for 10 years now and had no idea of so many species of palms! I recommend the adventure club app to get to really know these trees and areas. My boyfriend and I seek arboretums out in every town we visit, each one has a different vibe, all good ones too! Highly recommend YOU find them hiding all around the United States. This one was special. It is home to a specific tree type, 800 species! What?! It was a beautiful day with an amazing person. Well, are you on your way there yet? Free always ends up being the best adventure times.

Love this section of North Shore Park! Great cobblestone path with opening to large grassy areas. Water fountains all have bowls for dogs as well, because it’s St Pete of course 🦮 There’s benches to rest in the shade under variety of palms during a walk along the bay ☀️

If you love palms, the unique way they bend in the wind but don’t break…the majesty of a Gebang Palm or the cute petticoat palm, there are so many species here. Interesting fruits and friendly squirrels. Nice breeze coming off the water even in August. Clear walking path. This can be one stop on a very enjoyable walk through Northshore Park around the Vinoy and down along the water to the Pier. It’s a couple miles and a beautiful walk often seeing dolphins off the seawall, enjoying the 1920s architecture, the cool yachts and the warm community vibe.