The Sponge Exchange

Sponge Exchange is just a spot on the Sponge Docks to shop. There’s a handful of stores including boutiques, souvenir shops, candy store and a restaurant in the back. There is also a Greek market here as well.
This is a place to go to the public bathroom at Sponge Docks as well. There’s another spot across the street, but you will find it here.
There’s also a turtle, shark, and boat that says Tarpon Springs. This is a fun spot to take touristy pics!

This is what I live for, its my «Joie de vivre».
When walking thru the many stores at the sponge docks, we came across The Sponge Exchange. This store is amazing! They don’t see trinkets and sponges (Actually, they may sell sponges but I didn’t pay attention) I noticed the clothing, very lightweight for the climate.
Most of these stores are geared toward woman but lo and behold there is mens section.
Hurray!
I discovered a brand called «Cottonseed». Its a lightweight cotton shirt with the softest material. I bought a two pocket shirt, it’s styled like I should be on safari. I’ll be hunting poachers, no reason to shoot defenseless animals.
Anyhoo, The Sponge Exchange! Its good for browsing and finding a new clothing brand was a nice surprise.

This is a small shopping village along the sponge docks. There’s a variety of stores and I usually never leave empty handed, but what I end up with is usually unpredictable. The shop owners are always friendly and nice.
Take the time to check this are out as you explore the sponge docks.

I’ve lived in the Tampa Bay area for 30 years and ALWAYS enjoy a little getaway to Tarpon Springs. The out lying area of the community can be pretty congested traffic wise, but once within the heart of the community, Tarpon Springs is quaint.
The Orthodox Cathedral is really beautiful & a nice place to stop and take a look or light a candle.
The main drag (Dodecanes Street) is lined with Greek restaurants and tourist shops. These are TRUE tourist traps with trinkets & cheesy items. There are however some great little authentic Greek souvenirs. (I recommend picking up an Evil Eye! Can’t hurt to keep one laying around!)
Mykonos Restaurant & Hellas are hands down my 2 favorite restaurants and shouldn’t be missed. You can’t go wrong at either place & you will get the most traditional of meals at these spots. (My vote: eat at Mykonos & get dessert at Hellas… be sure to buy fresh bread & desserts ‘to go’ as well!)
Ask someone to direct you to the mini market if you would like to purchase any traditional Greek grocery items. A small little gem of a place. I like to hit this spot when I visit & pick up some of my personal faves.
Ok, Ill admit it, I’m Greek… and the Tarpon Community is a Greek community (obviously) so maybe I’m biased. I don’t live within the community, I live about 30 min away, but I find it a really nice escape to head to Tarpon to get a taste (pun intended) for foods and flavors I have grown up with.
In all honesty, I think it’s a really neat spot to take visitors for an affordable day out. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon without being overwhelmed by the commitment of a museum or paying big money for an amusement park. You can walk the streets, enjoy the silly shops, get a super authentic Greek meal & hear great Greek music.
I would STEER CLEAR of the boat tour/​sponge diving trip. Just my opinion but its really goofy & not worth the money! Read about it, buy a sponge at a shop, but save yourself the expense & annoyance of the boat tour.
I would also recommend NOT staying in the area as it is slightly run down. I would recommend if you are staying locally to establish yourself in the palm harbor, St Pete beach or Clearwater areas.