Discover St. Pete-Clearwater: Award-Winning Beaches, World-Class Arts, Outdoor Thrills & Flavourful Finds
St. Pete-Clearwater is home to 35-miles of award-winning white sugar sand beaches on Florida’s west coast. Immerse yourself in picturesque sunsets & go beyond the beaches to explore unique cultural heritage, world-renowned museums, outdoor adventures and a booming foodie scene, which has led to their inclusion as a partner destination of the Florida MICHELIN Guide 2025.
Find exactly what you’re looking for via the links below – or keep scrolling to discover the delights of St. Pete-Clearwater for yourself:
The best of St. Pete-Clearwater: Beaches, flavours & coastal adventures: Sun-Kissed Shores & Coastal Retreats | Flavours of the Gulf Coast | Creative Vibes & Cultural Riches | Thrills, Trails & Waterways
Playful stays: Why St. Pete-Clearwater Turns Hotels Into Part of the Holiday
When to go: Visiting St. Pete-Clearwater Throughout the Year
Watch: Find “America’s Favourite Beaches & So Much More! in St. Pete-Clearwater
The Best of St. Pete-Clearwater: Beaches, Flavours & Coastal Adventures
From sugar-white shores and fresh Gulf-to-table dining to a vibrant arts scene and endless outdoor thrills, this sun-drenched destination blends relaxation, creativity, and adventure in perfect harmony.
Sun-Kissed Shores & Coastal Retreats
Where the sparkling Gulf waters meet soft, powdery sands, St. Pete-Clearwater’s beaches blend breathtaking natural beauty with vibrant seaside energy—offering everything from peaceful escapes and wildlife-filled parks to lively shores perfect for family fun and relaxation.
Top beaches to discover:
- Fort De Soto Park – Paddle, bike, or picnic at this expansive park with pristine beaches and abundant wildlife
- Clearwater Beach – Iconic white sand and turquoise waves create a lively scene filled with beachside dining and family fun
- Caladesi Island State Park – Accessible by ferry, this unspoiled island offers peaceful trails, shelling, and clear waters perfect for swimming
- Honeymoon Island State Park – Explore coastal trails and relax on wide, natural beaches where sea turtles nest each year
- St. Pete Beach – A laid-back vibe meets charming shops and beachfront bars along this vibrant, sun-soaked stretch
Flavours of the Gulf Coast
Savour a vibrant culinary scene where fresh seafood, inventive flavours, and waterfront dining come together. From casual beachside cafés to award-winning restaurants, every meal is an invitation to taste the essence of coastal Florida.
Delicious bites & drinks to try:
- Gulf-fresh seafood – Delight in snapper, grouper, and stone crab served grilled, blackened, or fried, straight from local waters
- Sunset cocktails – Sip handcrafted drinks while watching the sky ignite over Clearwater Beach’s famous shoreline
- Farm-to-table fare – Enjoy seasonal dishes showcasing the region’s freshest produce and artisanal ingredients
- Beachfront brunches – Relish morning classics with ocean views and a laid-back vibe
- Eclectic eateries – From vibrant Latin flavours to Southern comfort food, discover diverse menus that reflect the area’s cultural mix
Creative Vibes & Cultural Riches
Immerse yourself in a thriving arts scene where vibrant murals, world-class galleries, and lively festivals celebrate the spirit of St. Pete-Clearwater’s creative community. Every corner invites discovery and inspiration.
Highlights of artistic life:
- Murals and street art – Wander neighbourhoods alive with colourful murals that tell stories of local history and culture
- Dali Museum – Step inside this striking waterfront museum to explore surreal masterpieces by Salvador Dalí
- First Friday Art Walk – Experience downtown’s buzzing art scene with galleries, live music, and open studios
- Theatre and performance – Catch innovative plays and concerts at intimate venues showcasing local talent
- Cultural festivals – Join year-round celebrations of music, film, and heritage that bring the community together
Thrills, Trails & Waterways
Dive into an outdoor playground where sparkling waters, winding trails, and vibrant ecosystems invite exploration and excitement. From paddleboarding tranquil bays to biking scenic parks, adventure awaits at every turn.
Experiences to energise your day:
- Kayaking and paddleboarding – Glide through calm mangroves and clear estuaries, spotting dolphins and manatees along the way
- Biking and hiking trails – Explore shaded paths in lush parks and along coastal stretches rich with wildlife and stunning views
- Fishing excursions – Cast a line in some of Florida’s richest waters, whether from a pier or a boat offshore
- Parasailing over the Gulf – Soar high above turquoise waves for breathtaking panoramic vistas
- Nature tours – Join guided eco-adventures to learn about local flora, fauna, and fragile ecosystems
Playful Stays: Why St. Pete-Clearwater Turns Hotels Into Part of the Holiday
In St. Pete-Clearwater, your hotel isn’t just a place to sleep — it’s part of the fun. From retro-chic beach pads to glamorous Gulf-front icons, every stay comes with a dose of sunshine and character. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family, or group of friends, these hotels set the tone for an unforgettable escape.
- Boho-chic on the beach – Set to open in 2025, The Luce promises a fresh wave of laid-back luxury to St. Pete Beach. This boho-chic beachfront hotel is designed to be a sanctuary where coastal charm meets modern comfort. Guests can expect spacious rooms with natural light, curated design elements, and a relaxed atmosphere that invites both relaxation and celebration
- Laid-back family fun – Rumfish Beach Resort and the neighbouring Tradewinds Island Grand Resort offer giant water slides, floating loungers, and even an enormous aquarium in the lobby — a hit with kids and grown-ups alike. There’s mini-golf, paddleboats, and endless activities on-site, making it a dream for families who love their beach holiday with a playful, all-ages twist
- Glamour by the Gulf – The Don CeSar, nicknamed “The Pink Palace,” has been turning heads since the 1920s. Couples love its grand spa, rooftop views, and old-Hollywood elegance, perfectly balanced with St. Pete’s relaxed beach vibe. From champagne brunches to history tours of the hotel itself, it’s an iconic retreat where luxury is woven into every detail
- Affordable beach bliss – The Beachcomber puts you steps from the sand with two pools, live music at Jimmy B’s Beach Bar, and a party-friendly energy that families and groups can enjoy without breaking the bank. Its casual charm, buzzing social scene, and unbeatable Gulf sunsets make it a go-to for travellers looking for fun without the fuss
- Luxury with a modern twist – Opal Sands and Opal Sol in Clearwater Beach offer sleek lines, floor-to-ceiling Gulf views, and dreamy pool decks that seem to spill into the horizon. With indulgent dining, award-winning spas, and chic interiors, these resorts combine modern design with the natural beauty of Florida’s coast
- High-rise coastal chic – JW Marriott Clearwater Beach is a showstopper for couples who want luxury with a city-meets-beach feel — think rooftop pool, refined dining, and skyline sunsets. Spacious suites, a sophisticated spa, and impeccable service ensure every moment feels special, making it one of the most polished stays in the region
- Downtown icon with edge – The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club anchors St. Pete’s waterfront with timeless style. Beyond the elegant rooms, it’s steps from craft breweries, street art, and the buzzing energy of the city’s nightlife and arts scene. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s championship golf course, serene spa, and a dash of historic grandeur at every turn
Visiting St. Pete-Clearwater Throughout the Year…
St. Pete-Clearwater blends sun-drenched beaches, a vibrant cultural scene, and year-round celebrations that bring the Gulf Coast spirit to life. From world-class festivals and sporting events to serene sunsets over sugar-white sands, every season offers its own reason to visit.
- Spring sparkles with excitement. Mild-to-warm days in the mid-20s°C set the scene for both outdoor adventure and cultural indulgence. The season kicks off with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (27 Feb-1 March 2026), where IndyCar racers zoom through downtown streets against a waterfront backdrop. Just weeks later, the prestigious Valspar Championship (19-22 March 2026) brings the PGA TOUR to nearby Palm Harbor, drawing golf fans from around the world. Between events, explore the SHINE Festival (7–16 November 2025), with a kickoff at the Museum of History on 6 November, a Central Avenue block party and mural refurbishment on 7–8 November, and a closing celebration at FloridaRAMA. Otherwise, soak up the sun along Clearwater Beach, consistently ranked among America’s best
- Summer is bold, bright, and full of pride. Long, hot days make the Gulf waters irresistible for swimming, paddleboarding, and sailing, while balmy evenings invite rooftop dining and lively beachfront strolls. June belongs to the St. Pete Pride Festival — one of the largest LGBTQ+ Pride events in the U.S. — filling the streets with colour, music, and community spirit. Families and couples alike can balance the buzz with laid-back moments, from dolphin cruises to sunset celebrations on Pier 60
- Autumn is for adrenaline and artistry. September’s Clearwater Offshore Nationals (26-28 Sept 2025) roar to life with high-speed powerboat racing just off the coast, creating an unforgettable spectacle. The pace then slows for Sanding Ovations (20-30 Nov 2025), where master sand sculptors transform Treasure Island’s beaches into towering works of art, framed by Gulf breezes and glowing sunsets. With fewer crowds and temperatures often in the mid-20s°C, it’s also the perfect season to explore nature preserves, cycle the Pinellas Trail, or enjoy al fresco dining along St. Pete’s waterfront
- Winter brings mild days and vibrant festivals. With temperatures in the high teens to low 20s°C, it’s an inviting time to escape the cold and enjoy the Gulf Coast at a gentler pace. February sees Winter Pride (15-22 Feb 2025), blending community celebrations with cultural events, followed by colourful parades and performances. Beyond the festivals, winter is a season for relaxed exploration: browse St. Pete’s renowned museums like The Dali, walk the sands of Caladesi Island State Park, or savour fresh Gulf seafood at a waterfront bistro as the sun dips below the horizon
Find “America’s Favourite Beaches & So Much More!” In St. Pete-Clearwater
