Gulf To Bay St. Pete Clearwater FL - Gulf to Bay 2026
Beaches & Communities
2026-08-25 08:35:48
VisitSPC.com/Beaches • VisitSPC.com/Communities
EXPLORE
Our Gulf Beaches & Inland Communities
Soak in the sunshine, gentle Gulf breezes and emerald waters that lap against 35 miles of world-renowned white-sand beaches. Beyond the coast, you’ll find welcoming neighborhoods, flavorful local dining and lively entertainment, plus cultural gems and quaint spots perfect for a sunset or moonlit stroll.
This is St. Pete-Clearwater.
Come see why there’s nothing else like it.
CLEARWATER BEACH
Kick back along a lapping surf. Sink your toes in sugary sand. Little ones in tow? They can swim safely in the usually gentle waters at Clearwater Beach, a sparkly hub for fun for all ages. Stroll along Mandalay Avenue and Gulf Boulevard, indulging in a variety of eats, treats and much-needed retail therapy. Add some amusements and aquatic sports, and you have more than enough to fill a vacation and keep coming back for more.
RECENT BUZZ: No. 1 beach in Florida and No. 2 in the U.S. by Tripadvisor in 2026, and USA Today recently named it the “Best Beach in the South.”
WHERE TO STAY: Location meets luxury at the ChartHouse Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel, where you can pamper yourself with “a rain spa.” Families love the Sandpearl Resort and its zero-entry pool, and the Wyndham Grand near the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise.
WHERE TO PLAY: Head to Clearwater Watersports for sightseeing tours, floating Tiki bars, Jet Skis and jet cars, the latest craze in water recreation: a hollowed-out sports car-turned-Jet Ski-like vessel. The nightly Sunsets at Pier 60 event is a twilight tradition with entertainers and vendors. The pier is also a favorite Florida spot for fishing, extending almost a quarter-mile into the Gulf.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Crabby’s Beachside Pavilion is a new go-to in North Clearwater, where residents go for a more mellow beach stroll.
BEST BEACH
CLEARWATER BEACH/SAND KEY
➋ St. Pete Beach/Pass-a-Grille Beach
➌ Treasure Island/Sunset Beach
➍ Indian Rocks Beach/Indian Shores
➎ Madeira Beach
SAND KEY PARK
Just off Gulf Boulevard, Sand Key Park is a mini nature retreat and picnicking favorite with an expansive beach bordered by pines and palms. A little further in, a salt marsh and nature trails share real estate with ospreys, herons, egrets and loggerhead sea turtles (from May to October).
RECENT BUZZ: A beach renourishment project has hit refresh on the beach park.
WHERE TO STAY: There are plenty of amenities at Clearwater Beach Sheraton Resort on Sand Key, where an outdoor pool (heated in the winter) and a shallow 1-foot kiddie pool are available year-round, and it’s right on a private beach. The Clearwater Beach Marriott Resort on Sand Key has an outdoor pool with a waterfall, a gated splash pad and a hot tub.
WHERE TO PLAY: Set out to sea with the Clearwater Community Sailing Center. Grill some hot dogs at outdoor tables at Sand Key Park. Rent a jet car or go on a sightseeing cruise with Wet Rentals and Tours. Beach volleyball, tennis courts, water sports rentals and a large fire pit can be enjoyed at the Sheraton.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Sand Key Park has a grassy and gated off-leash dog park. The Suncoast Beach Trolley takes visitors to restaurants, shops and nearby attractions.
ST. PETE BEACH
St. Pete Beach wins both Miss Personality and the beauty pageant. From basking by the picturesque boulders of Upham Beach to sipping a Sea Breeze with a sunset view at Undertow Beach Bar to swooning over the pastry case at La Casa del Pane, St. Pete Beach is indeed an all-in-one beach town.
RECENT BUZZ: Selected as a “Beach Escape” in Good Housekeeping’s 2026 Travel Awards.
WHERE TO STAY: For new, stylish digs and a cool boutique vibe, check out The Luce, which levels up your beach vacation in chic retro-futuristic style. Island Grand at TradeWinds delights with paddleboats on a canal occupied by swans, and Salty’s Beach Lounge, and RumFish Beach, where kids and parents roast s’mores at a nightly fire pit. A shoreline landmark, The Don CeSar is a historic wonder, also known as the Pink Palace. The Don is where celebrities stay and enjoy world-class dining and spa amenities.
WHERE TO PLAY: TradeWinds amuses kids and kids at heart with the High Tide Slide, a three-story inflatable water slide on the beach, plus the Floating Water Park and the Zing Ray Zip line. Ask Blind Pass Boat and Jet Ski Rental about sunset cruises and sandbar parties. Lagoon Pontoons has tritoon rentals.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: After a 13-year hiatus, the freshly remodeled The Beach Theatre now offers movies and live music. St. Pete Beach’s Corey Avenue has the charm of an old Main Street and is home to the Corey Avenue Sunday Market.
HONEYMOON ISLAND STATE PARK
The honeymoon is never over at Honeymoon Island State Park. It’s unspoiled Florida at its finest, where white, sandy beaches are skirted by wildflowers, mangrove-lined waterways and tall grasses billowing in the breeze.
RECENT BUZZ: Named one of the top 10 beaches in the U.S. by Tripadvisor in their 2026 “Best of the Best” Awards.
WHERE TO STAY: After an active beach day, you can plop down in a comfy bed at the Hampton Inn Dunedin, close to the park’s entrance.
WHERE TO PLAY: Besides over 4 miles of pristine beaches, you can hike the 2.5-mile Osprey Trail through one of Florida’s last virgin slash pine forests, where active nesting pairs of ospreys, bald eagles and great horned owls can be spotted. The Sand Spit Walk, at the northernmost parking lot, offers a breathtaking 2.5-mile stroll dotted by shorebird-filled marshes. The Rotary Centennial Nature Center has compiled the island’s history.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: The name “Honeymoon Island” was inspired by a contest involving newlyweds who won a postnuptial visit there in the 1930s (perhaps its previous name, Hog Island, wasn’t as big of a draw!).
CALADESI ISLAND STATE PARK
Get away from it all, for real, at Caladesi Island State Park. Accessible only by boat, it’s where a lush green curtain of sabal palms, shrubs and live oaks parts to a pristine white shoreline and crystal-clear surf.
RECENT BUZZ: In 2024, Caladesi was named the No. 1 beach in Florida by Dr. Beach and the fourth overall in the U.S.
WHERE TO PLAY: Kayak into mangrove tunnels on a 3-mile aquatic loop that winds to the early 19th-century Scharrer Homestead Ruins. Or, hike Caladesi’s interior trail to discover wildflower-sprinkled meadows.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: The easiest way to reach Caladesi Island is aboard the Caladesi Island Ferry from Honeymoon Island. Keep your eyes peeled along the way—you may spot dolphins, manatees, ospreys and other coastal wildlife before arriving at one of Florida’s most pristine beaches.
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH/ INDIAN SHORES
A Key West-like strip with a small-town vibe, Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores flow into one another along a pedestrian-friendly strip, packing in a surprising variety of restaurants, bars and shops. It’s where quaint bungalows and houses on stilts haven’t given way to high-rises. You’re always steps away from fresh seafood and a friendly pub and just a few steps from the shore via easy access points.
RECENT BUZZ: Both destinations are consistently highly rated on Tripadvisor for being clean, safe and family-oriented.
WHERE TO STAY: Rent a cozy cottage or vacation home with a pool from Gulfside Resorts.
WHERE TO PLAY: Whether you dig aquatic thrills or just want to chill, Splash Harbour Water Park has everything from steep slides to gentle lazy rivers at the recently revamped New Hotel Collection Harbourside Resort. The Seaside Seabird Sanctuary gives gulls, hawks and owls a new lease on life. Ride an e-bike or try out a Scoot Coupe (like bumper cars without the bumping) or a beach wheelchair, among other vehicles and vessels from Green Iguana Rentals.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Mahuffer’s is a classic dive bar, and the Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve tucks away a hidden, dog-friendly boardwalk and mangrove habitat.
iTrip ST. PETERSBURG BEACHES
Stay and play with iTrip St. Petersburg Beaches! Enjoy expert, courteous management, 24/7 support, and a range of beachfront condos and beach houses, on Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach and Pass-A-Grille. Top attraction tickets included with your booking.
CLEARWATER BEACH MARRIOTT RESORT ON SAND KEY
Enjoy stylish guest rooms designed for comfort, elevated meeting and event spaces, and relaxing poolside cabanas perfect for unwinding. Savor premium steak and fresh seafood at Watercolour Grillhouse, rejuvenate at our on-site Salon & Day Spa, or head out on the water with watersports rentals available right at the resort. Families will love Lisa’s Kid’s Klubhouse and the vibrant Splash Pad, while adults can soak in the waterfront atmosphere at Kokomo’s Bar & Grille with live music on select days. Your perfect Florida escape awaits—offering the ideal blend of relaxation and coastal adventure.
www.clearwaterbeachmarriottresort.com
@ClearwaterBeachMarriottResortonSandKey
SKYBEACH RESORT
THE DREAM OF ST. PETE – ALIVE + WELL ON THE WATER
Where sun-soaked days meet electric energy, SkyBeach is St. Pete’s most vibrant beachfront tropical playground. Lounge on our private beach, sip poolside cocktails, or dock & dine at our waterfront restaurants. From embracing nature and effortless vibes to live music, fire pit nights, a boater’s paradise, golden hour paddleboarding, and pickleball—every moment is designed to keep the energy flowing. Steps from the Skyway Bridge, minutes to downtown yet miles from ordinary—this is where locals escape and travelers never want to leave. Discover our unique way of life by the Skyway.
THE REDINGTONS
The communities dotting Redington Beach and Redington Shores are low-key hidden gems. They swap resort crowds for a peaceful residential feel and miles of wide shorelines, more of a gathering spot for shorebirds than spring breakers. With 2.5 miles of uninterrupted shoreline, these laid-back communities are named after Charles Redington, the real estate mogul who put them on the map.
WHERE TO STAY: DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton, right on the beach, just got a glow-up in early 2024 with nautical-chic decor, zero carpeting (because sand happens) and walk-in showers that feel like a spa. On the grounds, Coconut Charlie’s Beach Bar & Grill lets you kick back on a roomy veranda, where you can sling back “boozy slushies” and coconut shrimp while taking in live music.
WHERE TO PLAY: Bike, beach and take to the waves with the help of Rad Bikes, Beach, Surf & Rentals (by appointment only).
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Some beach access points usher you through dense sea grape tunnels, giving way to a big, breathtaking reveal. The Redington Shores Beach Access has showers, restrooms and metered parking. Free parking along Gulf Boulevard is usually easy to find early mornings and late afternoons.
MADEIRA BEACH & JOHN’S PASS
An epicenter for family-size fun, Madeira Beach mixes fun and relaxation with a super-walkable main strip brimming with shops and eats for every budget. Some legendary spots have been at it since the ’70s. Mad Beach, as the locals call it, drives us mad with its emerald coastline and 2.5 miles of continuous shoreline, where you can nap under an umbrella or spread out with loved ones for a festive occasion.
RECENT BUZZ: No. 9 on Tripadvisor’s Best Beaches in the U.S. list for 2021.
WHERE TO STAY: Melt your worries away at the Cambria Hotel, which has a rooftop infinity pool. Barefoot Beach Club relaxes guests with two heated outdoor pools and a new rooftop terrace for optimal sunset viewing. Newly renovated, the Holiday Isles Resort is wonderfully affordable for families.
WHERE TO PLAY: An old-timey roadside attraction meets a 21st-century travel destination at John’s Pass Village, where sea shantylike rows of shops, eats, treats and bric-a-brac entertain visitors by a peaceful waterfront dock. Charter a boat, rent Jet Skis or get the gang together on floating Tiki bars at Hubbard’s Marina. Remember Our Children Park has a pirate-themed playground and a fenced splash pad.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Dockside Dave’s, the quintessential Florida beach bar and grill, has been remodeled and recently reopened.
TREASURE ISLAND
Spread out and kick back at Treasure Island. It’s got a plus-size municipal beach that stretches a quarter-mile from street to shore. Colorful, fun and enchanting with loads of personality, Treasure Island’s beach is the shimmery star of this adventure with sweeping and beautiful shores that are immensely walkable.
RECENT BUZZ: No. 3 Best Florida Beach in USA Today’s 10Best list from 2025.
WHERE TO STAY: You’re in for a pampering at FUSION Resort. Or, splurge on a magnificent view at the Treasure Island Beach Resort. Parents love the Bilmar Beach Resort, and the Surf Beach Resort helps cut time and costs with direct beach access and fully equipped kitchens, plus it’s close to John’s Pass.
WHERE TO PLAY: Atomic Claw Arcade is a new Tokyostyle arcade with more than 40 claw machines and numerous prizes. For a more refined escapade, Suncoast Sailing invites passengers on a classic schooner. The smoothly paved Treasure Island Beach Trail makes your feet and wheels happy. Soar above the water with Parasailing the Pass, a local company that also features Tony’s Tiki Tours for private dolphin tours. If you dare, shimmy down the Treasure Island Waterslide, an inflatable waterfront version of the playground staple.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Sanding Ovations, a high-caliber sandcastle tournament, happens in November, and the Treasure Island Kite Festival takes flight in January.
PASS-A-GRILLE BEACH
Pass-a-Grille Beach gets aura points for its Old Florida beach town trappings. Stroll the easy-to-access shore with wispy sea oats, or grab a fishing pole and cast a line alongside the pelicans at Merry Pier. Palm trees and sea grapes line sidewalks presided by Victorian and Queen Anne houses and Craftsman bungalows. Festive restaurants, bars, colorful shops and indulgent-filled cafes add chic and funky plot twists to Pass-a-Grille’s historic adventure.
RECENT BUZZ: The Inn on the Beach won the 2023 Traveler’s Choice Award and Booking.com’s 2023 Traveller Review Award.
WHERE TO STAY: A rooftop bar with sunset views can be enjoyed at The Berkeley Beach Club, which embodies Pass-a-Grille’s classic style. Originally built in 1912, the Havana Inn is the best of both worlds with vintage vibes and modern amenities, recently remodeled this century.
WHERE TO PLAY: The Shell Key Shuttle and Offshore Hustler fishing charters run trips daily. Order a PBR at the half-century-plus-old tavern, Shadrack’s.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Every sunset, locals and visitors alike gather at Paradise Grille to count down and applaud our biggest star as she makes her exit. Someone, an appointed “Head Ding-Dong,” volunteers to ring a ceremonial bell to mark the end of the day. The Seahorse Restaurant, a locals’ fave, has been open since 1938.
FORT DE SOTO PARK
PARK Scenic, unspoiled Fort De Soto Park has miles of fun for everyone, with beaches, historical landmarks, camping, kayaking, a paved biking trail, and tons of native flora and fauna. It’s where you’ll find pristine shorelines with dramatic driftwood, lush nature trails, a chorus line of feathered friends and loads of recreation.
RECENT BUZZ: No. 6 Best Dog-Friendly Beach in USA Today’s 10Best list for 2025.
WHERE TO STAY: Campsites come equipped with clean restrooms, showers and waterfront sites. The waterfront sites get reserved way in advance. Book early. Pet-friendly spots are usually available.
WHERE TO PLAY: Fort De Soto Park Bay Pier is great for spotting dolphins, fishing, watching the sunset and embarking on the Egmont Key Ferry. Go back in time to the historic fort and Quartermaster Museum. Gather everyone for a pine-shaded picnic, play volleyball, take the pup to the ever-popular dog beach, or venture back in time at the namesake bastion and military quarters.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Topwater Kayaks is the go-to for threading the key chain of Fort De Soto by water. The crosscurrents of Tampa Bay and the Gulf make Fort De Soto Park’s sandy apex a popular spot for kiteboarding.
BEST DOG-CENTRIC HANGOUT
FORT DE SOTO DOG BEACH
➋ Honeymoon Island Pet Beach,
Dunedin
➌ Dog Bar, St. Pete
➍ Barks & Brews Taphouse, Largo
➎ Mutts & Martinis, St. Pete
ST. PETE
St. Pete has fast-tracked the Florida good life, blending metropolitan chic with a laid-back Sunshine State of mind.
It’s where strolling a seemingly endless waterfront and “Is this real?” views knock you over in a good way. Score clutch finds at ultra-cool boutiques. Find inspiration at world-class museums or bike nature trails. Lounge with a latte or lean into nostalgia with an afternoon of shuffleboard. Wait! What’s that? Another new restaurant?! St. Pete’s foodie scene is perpetually leveling up. And so are its mind-blowing murals. There’s also nightlife for days. Pour it on at craft breweries. Play games. Sing karaoke. Sip sophistication slowly at cool cocktail bars. In short, we’re not surprised that BBC dubbed the Burg “The Weekend MVP,” the go-to spot for an “artsy, nature-filled weekend.”
ST. PETE PIER/WATERFRONT
A postcard-perfect promenade and sensational shorebirds compete for your attention with some of the best museums on Earth. At St. Pete’s Waterfront District, the old guard meets the vanguard at the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, or get surreal at The Dalí Museum, where The Dalí Dome blows minds with 360-degree experiences.
DATE NIGHT? Catch a show at the Mahaffey Theater.
GATHERING THE FAM? Grab a waterfront table at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, treat the kids to a scoop at Driftwood Café or upgrade a night out at Teak. Perry’s Porch is a casually chic coastal eatery that’s perfect for kicking back before or after the fun.
THE ULTIMATE “WISH YOU WERE HERE” MOMENT: Rooftop bar Pier Teaki serves up refreshing cocktails and heart-stopping views of the ’Burg’s skyline.
HAVE THE KIDS? Let them burn off that extra energy at the Glazer Family Playground — easily one of the coolest parks in Florida. Don’t forget the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center! Stop for a selfie by Naomi Haverland’s stunning aquatic mural, then head inside. Blade the Pier helps you shimmy and sway on the scenic paths.
WAREHOUSE ARTS DISTRICT
An industrial district transformed by unfiltered creativity, the Warehouse Arts District is elemental magic. It’s where fire transforms earth with blowtorches and kilns, yielding breathtaking glass sculptures at the Duncan McClellan Gallery and impressive ceramics at the Morean Center for Clay (housed in a historic train station).
WHERE TO GATHER: 3 Daughters Brewing serves popular craft lagers, stouts and ales, and The Urban Stillhouse a popular hub for Bourbon aficionados.
COOL AND UNIQUE: The immersive attraction FloridaRAMA takes you on a multisensory journey through Florida’s weird and wonderful culture.
CLASSY PARTICIPATION: Try hands-on sculpture classes at the Morean Center for Clay, where free kids classes are a favorite on Sundays.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Arrive in healthy style via the Pinellas Trail, which has turned into a massive outdoor gallery with stunning murals leading you into the heart of the district. Daddy Kool Records is mandatory for vinyl lovers and music buffs.
THE CENTRAL ARTS DISTRICT
The Central Arts District is the ultimate one-stop shop for culture junkies and foodies alike. Browse handmade masterpieces at Florida CraftArt or the Museum of the American Arts & Crafts Movement.
ART IS WHERE THE HOME IS: The Wild West is reimagined and chronicled through time at The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, a rare hub for coveted contemporary Native American artworks, or be dazzled by glowing glass at the Chihuly Collection. Want to see what the locals are up to? Peek into the Morean Arts Center or The Studio@620 for that raw, grassroots creativity. Catch a play at American Stage, where Broadway-caliber productions make you think and feel at a whole new level.
THE RECENT BUZZ: Treat your taste buds at Central Park, a massive five-story food hall, the current “it” spot for every craving imaginable.
WHERE TO PLAY: A favorite for local music in just about every genre, Jannus Live has concerts every weekend and on some school nights.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: The “literati” and people who just want a glass of chardonnay in cool trappings still congregate at Book + Bottle for wine, poetry and good reads.
THE EDGE DISTRICT
The EDGE District is trendy in a good way — effortlessly stylish and always winning awards (15 and counting from the Florida secretary of state). It’s where all ages find a vibe, from the monthly Mezzo Market to the unapologetically bold Moxy St. Petersburg Downtown. For the best view in the district, take the elevator up to Sparrow, a rooftop bar serving up mid-century lounge vibes with sophisticated cocktails and Asian fusion small bites.
PETAL TO THE METAL: Bouquet and Bordeaux is a Parisianstyle wine bar and cafe with flowers and floral arranging.
WHERE TO PLAY: The big papa on the block, Green Bench Brewing Company, gathers families, pups and craft beer enthusiasts. If you’re craving euro for your dollar, Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails has your morning espresso and midnight martinis.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Pregame for a Tampa Bay Rays game at Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill, rated the #1 Local Sports Bar in America by the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
THE GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT
Shady tree-lined sidewalks and warm community vibes can be found at the Grand Central District, the proud home of St. Pete Pride and Come Out St. Pete. The district has also become a hot spot for “all-day stays,” where you can start with a gourmet brunch and end with a late-night neon-lit patio session without ever leaving the block.
SHINY CHIPS OFF THE BLOCK: Defy your imagination at the Imagine Museum of contemporary glass art. Enjoy Halloween on Central, one of the state’s biggest, most creative street fests, where the costumes are as wild as the energy.
A FOODIE AND HIPSTER FAVORITE: For Latin-and-beyond fare that’s as bold as the decor, visit Pulpo Kitchen + Lounge. Pro tip: The craft cocktails are works of art.
WHERE TO PLAY: Take a swing at Par Bar, a destination for adults who take their 18-hole mini golf as seriously as their craft beer. Sing your heart out with friends at LALA St. Pete in a private karaoke room, or have a ball playing boules or cornhole.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: Bibliophiles flock to Tombolo Books, a mainstay for local author readings.
GULFPORT
Gulfport is St. Pete’s quirky, artsy soul sister. It’s low-key and endearingly weird yet refined. Taking a stroll down Beach Boulevard feels like a miniature Key West, with authentic Italian Pia’s Trattoria nourishing the locals with good cibo and vino is a regular thing.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: On Wednesdays, the dog-friendly Tommy’s Hideaway feeds folks on the cheap with a $10 burger deal. After the beach, the Gulfport Brewery + Eatery is a great place to kick back.
WHERE TO PLAY: For the nature lovers and those who just need a minute, Clam Bayou Nature Preserve feels like it’s a world away. You can hike or bike the trails, but the real magic happens on the water — it’s a premier spot for kayakers and paddleboarders to explore the mangroves and spot local wildlife. For something less strenuous, the Gulfport Beach area is ideal for a sunset picnic.
CLEARWATER
Clearwater is a beautiful, fun place in the most classic Florida sense. You can spend your morning getting inspired by the incredible rescue stories at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, then cruise past palm trees and bougainvillea to downtown Clearwater, and catch the Philadelphia Phillies during spring training.
Downtown has officially hit its stride, blending historic charm with a gleaming, modern waterfront. Share a dessert at Clear Sky on Cleveland before a concert at the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, which is looking better than ever at 100-plus years old, or by the scenic marina at The BayCare Sound, a state-of-the-art amphitheater in the newly reimagined Coachman Park. With the kids, take ’em to Congo River Golf, they can putt-putt by waterfalls or go full throttle at the Tampa Bay Grand Prix. Their climate-controlled indoor track means you can channel your inner Formula One driver without breaking a sweat.
DUNEDIN
Dunedin is essentially a Hallmark movie come to life but with better beer and a cooler soundtrack. The Main Street Historic District has colorful shops, mellow cafes, unique art galleries and some of the area’s top-reviewed restaurants.
OUTDOOR CHARMS: Gawk at majestic ospreys and other wildlife in the 90-acre Hammock Park. Hop on a bike and hit the Pinellas Trail, which cuts right through the heart of downtown, past breweries, boutiques and ice cream shops.
THE SCOTTISH CONNECTION: The Dunedin Highland Games & Festival is every April, and, yes, there will be kilts and bagpipes.
SPRING TRAINING: Catch the Toronto Blue Jays at TD Ballpark, where the stadium energy is high, and the hot dogs are a home run.
AN ARTS MUST-SEE: If you’re feeling creative, the Dunedin Fine Art Center is a world-class hub for exhibits and classes in all media.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: To see the city’s “good side,” take the scenic route northbound on Edgewater Drive through a promenade of tall palm trees. En route, you’ll find the Fenway — a Mediterranean Revival hotel that’s basically a time capsule of 1920s Jazz Age glamour with a cool rooftop bar, Hi-Fi, where you can watch the sky turn neon over the Gulf.
SAFETY HARBOR
Centuries-old oaks meet brick-lined streets in Safety Harbor. Tucked away on the shores of Upper Tampa Bay, this is the place to go when you want to trade the hustle for a relaxed, artsy vibe. The historic Safety Harbor Resort & Spa remains the town’s centerpiece, perched right on the mineral springs that have been drawing wellness seekers for centuries.
PALATE PLEASER: Rocking Delicious is a literal candy wonderland that will put you in a happy sugar coma. For a more sophisticated palate, The Tides Market is a gourmet shop and surf and turf restaurant all in one. Savor high-end deliciousness at Water Oak Grill, next-level Floridian fare at The Kitchen and so much more in between. Safety Harbor’s dining scene is indeed having a moment.
WHERE TO PLAY AND SWAY: Safety Harbor is where “weird” meets “wonderful” in the best way.
GET ARTSY: The Safety Harbor Art & Music Center will grab your attention immediately with its stunning mirror-mosaic walls and open-air stage. You haven't truly seen Florida until you’ve visited Whimzeyland, aka the “bowling ball house.” It’s a multicolored explosion of folk art that is pure, unfiltered joy.
GET OUTSIDE: At Philippe Park, you can ascend a historic Native American temple mound and take in the view of Old Tampa Bay under a massive canopy of Spanish moss. If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, Empower Adventures Tampa Bay offers a zip line experience that lets you soar right over the mangroves and the bay.
PRO TIP: For the best free show in town, grab a coffee and head to the Safety Harbor Pier at sunrise.
TARPON SPRINGS
Tarpon Springs is essentially a one-way ticket to the Mediterranean without the jet lag. Known for having the highest percentage of Greek Americans in the U.S., this town is a beautiful blend of deep-rooted heritage and coastal charm. The world-famous Sponge Docks are the heart and soul of the city, where you can wander Dodecanese Boulevard, shop for authentic sea sponges (the OG exfoliator) and soak in that Old World energy.
Of course, you can’t talk about Tarpon Springs without the food. Hellas Restaurant & Bakery is a local institution — one whiff of their spanakopita or honey-drenched baklava, and you’re a goner. For those planning a “main character” date night, Dimitri’s on the Water offers front-row seats to a killer Gulf sunset while you feast on grilled octopus.
NEW WORLD MEETS OLD WORLD: The vibe has officially expanded beyond the docks into the historic downtown district. Refined Roots has solidified its spot as the go-to for “fresh, local and refined” dining; it’s the perfect place for a craft cocktail and a farm-to-table meal that looks as good as it tastes. Also, the Tarpon Springs Distillery is now a major player, serving up award-winning spirits in a repurposed sponge warehouse.
WHERE TO PLAY: For beachy outdoor fun, head to Fred Howard Park. The mile-long causeway drive takes you to a white-sand island that’s perfect for windsurfing or just lounging by the surf.
WHAT LOCALS KNOW: While the tourists stick to the Sponge Docks, locals love the Pinellas Trail extension that runs right through the center of town, connecting you to hidden gems along the way. Also, if you’re here in January, the Epiphany celebration is a bucket-list experience — watching dozens of young men dive into the chilly Spring Bayou for a wooden cross is a high-stakes tradition at its finest.
©MilesStPete. View All Articles.