What People Are Saying About Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
Overview – The big draw for the Greek immigrants who came here after 1905 was the traditional trade of sponge diving. Known as the sponge capital of the world, the industry took off in the 1930s. But a decade later, bacteria ruined the sponge beds, as well as the industry. In the 1980s, new sponge beds were discovered and the local economy once again prospered to its present-day status as a leader in the world's natural sponge market. – – The Appeal – Shop in more than 100 stores, including originals still owned by the founding families. Eat at more than 15…
08/19/07
Great Day Trip for All Ages
by pscalia at Citysearch
Great area for all ages. An authentic Greek village founded by sponge divers from Greece. Enjoy a scenic boatride on the Anclotte River or hand-feed sharks and rays at the Tarpon Aquarium. The food is fantastic, of course, and you get tons of food for very little money. Recommend Plaka's Restaurant where the gyro meat is the only place home made on the premises....fantastic. Plenty of shopping; everything from upscale clothing boutiques to hand-made soaps to imported linens to fabulous fudge. And you can't leave without an authentic, from-the-sea sponge....great for every use. Plan to make it a day. You won't be sorry.
- Pros: Food, Shopping, People, Activities
- Cons: Parking Limited, but do-able
02/13/06
great atmosphere... great food...
by iamdan at Citysearch
A wonderful little place to spend about a half a day. Very nice local folks. Gives you the feeling of being in a little Greek village. Authentic food that is priced right. Everyone is friendly. Prices in the shops is just what you would expect them to be... a bit pricey but not too expensive to enjoy. You can park for free a couple of blocks away but for a small fee you can park right in the heart of all the action. I would highly reccommend it for anyone.
- Pros: Food, Atmosphere
02/09/06
User review by tarpon
by tarpon at Citysearch
As you turn West on Dodecanese (turn East go two blocks and park free) you are greeted by No Parking/Tow Zone signs and a sea of attended parking lots. You can pay to go for a boat ride, pay to see how sponges are harvested, pay to see an aquarium or pay to ride the trolley (a circuitous route back to the parking lots. The shops are a value and the restaurants are good.The atmosphere - A carnival. Andy Rooney would love it it! Do not bring your Entertainment Book. The coupons are not valid from 12/15 to 4/30
- Pros: Shops, Food
- Cons: Parking, Towing
The Details on Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
When to Go:
The town is known for celebrating such things as Greek Independence Day in March and an arts and crafts festival in April. But by far the most noteworthy event takes place every January 6 with the Epiphany ceremony, an old Greek Orthodox rite.
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