The name Pinellas comes from the Spanish phrase "La Punta de Pinal de Jimenez," meaning "Jimenez's Point of Pines." Spanish explorers gave this name to the entrance of Tampa Bay in 1757, referencing the area's abundant pine forests. Historically, Pinellas was part of Hillsborough County until 1912, when it became its own county. The region was originally home to Native American cultures, including the Tocobaga people, who lived along the coast for centuries. Today, Pinellas County is known for its dense population, coastal beauty, and urban development, with cities like St. Petersburg and Clearwater playing key roles in Florida’s economy and tourism.
Historically, Pinellas was part of Hillsborough County until 1912, when it became its own county. The region was originally home to Native American cultures, including the Tocobaga people, who lived along the coast for centuries.
Today, Pinellas County is known for its dense population, coastal beauty, and urban development, with cities like St. Petersburg and Clearwater playing key roles in Florida’s economy and tourism.