COMMUNITIES VisitSPC.com/Gulfport 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. 42 AMERICA’S FAVORITE BEACHES