Some Day is Here: Safety Harbor, Florida

2-21-2013 We traveled about 85 miles to a quaint little town nestled on the northwest coast of Old Tampa Bay. I had read about Safety Harbor in the Lazydays, Better RVing magazine. It is identified as one of Florida's hidden jewels. the first historical record dates to 1528, when Spanish explorer Panfilo de Narvaez encountered the native Tocobaga tribes. Another Spaniard, Hernando de Soto, led asecond expediotion here in 1539, searching for the Fountain of Youth. While he did not find the mythical fountain, de Soto did discover a natural mineral spring he dubbed Espiritu Santo Springs. The reputaion of these "healing waters" grew, and by the early 1900s, Espiritu Santo water was being distributed worldwide. Today, people from all over the world travel to Espiritu Santo Springs to spend a day in luxurious relaxation at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa.
Safety Harbor derives its name from the collective sigh of relief shared by the 18th century merchant seamen who anchored here. Piracy was prevalent in the Carribean and the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. But when ship crews finally reached this protective anchorage, they believed they were safe from the threat of the seagoing pirates/thieves. Worth's Harbor-Safe Harbor-Safety Harbor.
It became permanently settled in 1823, when a Frenchman, Count Odet Philippe, father of the Florida grapefruit, homesteaded Safety Harbor. It has managed to maintain a small-town ambiance on a peninsula that thrives on the tourist trade.

We enjoyed the day trip very much. Phillippe Park may be the prettiest park that i have ever seen. It's elevation and walkways along the water was a great peaceful feeling. there were many huge old trees. We walked thru the main street park and visited some of the vendors that were there. This market included a farmer's market as well.
We had our MOD at the Paradise Restaurant which had a variety menu but did have lots of Greek cuisine. Bruce had the Musaka and I had the lamb gyro. great food.

We also are so happy that Kelly's second OB visit showed that sll if well with Baby H #2!!