From the Bay to the Beaches

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Hotels5
Articles10
Restaurants3
Videos2
Points of Interest4
Things To Do4

Overview

If miles of white sand beaches are calling your name, look no further than St. Petersburg and Clearwater. Spend your entire Florida vacation relaxing on the beach — St. Pete Beach is the area’s most popular spot, while Fort DeSoto Park tends to be quieter. Or you can also take in the art and culture of the area by visiting the awe-inspiring Dalí Museum and bask in the beauty of the Sunken Gardens. Everyone can enjoy learning about the animals at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where they rescue and rehabilitate marine wildlife, including dolphins and sea turtles.

Clearwater Beach, FL (6)

Hotels

HotelHyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & SpaThe upscale property is located just across the street from the Gulf of Mexico, and the rooftop pool deck is a popular spot that offers great views of the beach and gorgeous sunsets. Guest rooms vary in size and configuration; some are standard in style with a cooking area, while others are quite spacious and have a full living room, dining area and separate bedroom. All come with beautiful views, whether it's of the bay or beachfront. There is 32,000 square feet of conference space available which makes this an excellent spot for large groups. Smoke free premises. 287 units, some efficiencies and kitchens. 17 stories, interior corridors.

HotelOpal Sands ResortThe inviting hotel sits next to the Gulf and has pulled in the blue hues of the water into the impressive décor. The spacious rooms are luxurious and vary in size and layout. The largest room is the Presidential suite which boasts the ultimate in luxury and features numerous bedrooms, a living room and ultra-modern kitchen. All of the guest rooms have a private furnished patio and offer fabulous views of passing boats and beautiful sunsets. Smoke free premises. 230 units, some two bedrooms and kitchens. 15 stories, interior corridors. Accessibility (Call).

HotelSheraton Sand Key ResortLocated on the Gulf of Mexico, the resort offers rooms with either private patios or balconies, some have an excellent views of the beach. Rooms are spacious and decorated in dark wood tones. Exterior design enhancements of the hotel gives one the feel of arriving at a Mediterranean resort. The expansive fitness center offers fabulous views of Clearwater Bay as you work out. Smoke free premises. 390 units. 9 stories, interior corridors. Accessibility (Call).

Articles

DESTINATIONClearwater BeachClearwater Beach is connected with the mainland by the Clearwater Memorial Causeway, a landscaped, 2-mile drive. The broad, white-sand beach attracts both residents and visitors. Beach Walk, a winding, half-mile-long brick pedestrian promenade paralleling South Gulfview Boulevard in the area of Pier 60, provides beachgoers with unobstructed views. Cabanas and beach umbrella rentals provide shade depending on the weather.

Restaurants

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RESTAURANTOcean HaiExuding a serene vibe, the trendy restaurant features an Asian-fusion seasonal menu comprised of locally-sourced and farm-raised ingredients. Courses are visually appetizing and satisfying. Selections include various sushi dishes, chicken pho, and Gulf grouper. Chicken and steak is also listed on the menu. My favorite dessert is the Flippin’ Out, a delicious and unique twist on creme brûlée which is enhanced with unexpected, delightful flavors.

Videos

VideoFind the best places to visit in Florida with AAA

St. Pete Beach, FL (2)

Hotels

HotelThe Don CeSarSet on the Gulf of Mexico, the internationally recognized "pink palace" is a beacon to the beach. It boasts lavishly decorated public areas, specialty boutiques and a gorgeous pool and spa area. Rooms range from cozy in size to luxuriously spacious. Many offer spectacular beach and sunset views. There are a multitude of recreational areas to enjoy that include fire pits which are a highlight of the outdoor seating areas. Not only will guests enjoy being outdoors, the beach views and activities are a plus. Select from kayaks, paddleboards and beach concessions. A variety of first-class shops is located on site and the ice cream shop delights kids of all ages. Smoke free premises. 277 units, some two bedrooms and kitchens. 10 stories, interior corridors. Accessibility (Call).

Articles

DESTINATIONSt. Pete BeachA resort community on Long Key, St. Pete Beach is connected to the mainland by the St. Pete Beach Causeway and the Pinellas Bayway (toll). The town has good swimming beaches, several fishing piers and charter boat operations. Two trolleys, operated by PSTA, provide transportation in St. Pete Beach. The Central Avenue Trolley travels Central Avenue and Gulf Boulevard between St. Petersburg and Pass-A-Grille Beach. The Suncoast Beach Trolley travels Gulf Boulevard between Clearwater and St. Pete Beach; phone (727) 540-1900.

Saint Petersburg Clearwater, FL (13)

Hotels

HotelThe Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph CollectionBuilt in 1925 as a haven for the rich and famous, the hotel has been restored and modernized, yet it retains its historical grandeur. Rooms are upscale in style and range from cozy to spacious. The large front porch and courtyard area are ideal spots to enjoy views of the nearby marina and park. In the evening, take time to relax around the fire table. The hotel is just a short walk to several downtown attractions, museums and restaurants. Smoke free premises. 356 units. 7 stories, interior corridors. Accessibility (Call).

Articles

ARTICLEBest Restaurants In St. Petersburg Clearwater And Beaches Our favorites include some of this destination's best restaurants—from fine dining to simple fare.

ARTICLEEvents In St. Petersburg Clearwater And Beaches In addition to its many cultural and historic landmarks, this destination hosts a number of outstanding festivals and events that may coincide with your visit.

ARTICLEOne Day In The St. Pete Area AAA editors suggest these activities for a great short vacation experience. Those staying in the area for a longer visit can access a 3-day itinerary at AAA.com/TripCanvas.

ARTICLESt. Pete Area In 3 Days Three days is barely enough time to get to know any major destination. But AAA travel editors suggest these activities to make the most of your time in the St. Petersburg-Clearwater area.

ARTICLEWhat To Do In In St. Petersburg Clearwater And Beaches Do the Dalí. The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg has the nation's largest collection of the artist's works, not to mention the greatest number of things to see, including rare, large-canvas Dalí paintings.

DESTINATIONSt. Petersburg/ClearwaterWhen planning a trip to Florida, what comes to mind? A tuxedoed mouse and sun-kissed, palm tree-lined shores, perhaps? The St. Petersburg-Clearwater area certainly delivers the latter, with the Pinellas Peninsula and 11 barrier islands offering more than 380 miles of beach and fun things to do. You can unwind at secluded, white-sand oases lapped by crystal-clear waters; plus, a myriad of salt air-inspired recreational activities ensure you'll get more than just your toes wet.

Points of Interest

POINT OF INTERESTSalvador Dalí MuseumThe extensive Salvador Dali Museum is home to the largest collection of works by the famous Spanish surrealist outside of Europe. Visitors to the St. Petersburg highlight can view key works from every stage of Dali’s career as well as exceptional pieces from every medium of his artistic endeavors—oil paintings, original drawings, prints, sculptures, and photos—along with manuscripts and an extensive archive of documents.

Things To Do

From $120

THING TO DO

Private Family, Couple or Single Photo Session in St P...

30 minutes

I will make that your special occasions and memories are recorded in the best way and to enjoy the moment you will remem...

From $79

THING TO DO

Electric Bike Guided City & Mural Tour

3 hours

Our Guided City Tour is an experience you will not want to miss out on! Ride St Pete's incredible waterfront trails, vis...

From $50

THING TO DO

Saint Petersburg Scenic Segway Tour

1 hour

On this one hour Scenic Segway Tour of Downtown St. Petersburg which is located in the Historic District, you will be vi...

From $55

THING TO DO

Saint Petersburg Paddle Board Tour

2 hours

Come play in St Petersburg's Coffee Pot Bayou; the only premier location for all levels of paddle boarding. Learn the ba...

Videos

VideoFind the top things to do in St. Pete and Clearwater, Florida

Tampa, FL (4)

Points of Interest

POINT OF INTERESTClearwater Marine AquariumMore than just an aquarium, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a marine life rescue and rehabilitation center. Set on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the center gained fame when it rescued Winter, a baby dolphin that later starred in theDolphin Tale movies. You can visit Winter and other dolphins, sharks, stingrays, and such at the aquarium.

POINT OF INTERESTCaladesi IslandCaladesi Island State Park floats just off the shores of Dunedin and is only 2 nautical miles (3.7 kilometers) from Clearwater Beach. Palm trees, sand dunes, and mangroves lend it a wild feel, while elevated boardwalks, picnic facilities, restrooms with showers, and a café make it an inclusive spot for family-friendly relaxation.

POINT OF INTERESTSunken GardensAn oasis in the heart of St. Petersburg, Sunken Gardens is a 4-acre, century-old living museum in the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood. Walking paths weave through the botanical gardens, adorned with hundreds of species of plants, flowers, exotic birds, and flamingos that add even more vibrant hues to the lush surroundings.

Articles

DESTINATIONTampa Historical preservation and a good measure of civic pride have contributed to a cultural richness that makes Tampa comparable in Florida to Miami. Consider vibrant, historic Ybor City, birthplace of Tampa's cigar industry and now its hot-hot-hot Latin-infused nightspot. For fun things to do, there is an eclectic mix of art, history and science museums that inspire adults and children to explore new horizons together while having loads of fun.

Indian Rocks Beach, FL (2)

Articles

DESTINATIONIndian Rocks BeachIndian Rocks Beach is a resort community near the midpoint of Sand Key, a long, narrow island in the Gulf off the Pinellas County coast. It is accessible by SR 688 north of St. Petersburg.

Restaurants

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RESTAURANTGuppy's on the Beach Seafood Grill & BarPatrons enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and upbeat background music while dining. The various menu options include blue crab guacamole, Chef’s select oysters, shrimp fettuccine and swordfish tacos. Pork chops and short ribs are listed under the meat options. The panko-fried chicken cutlet is my favorite. End the meal with a satisfying dessert. I recommend the Italian lemon Mascarpone layer cake.

Indian Shores, FL (1)

Restaurants

RESTAURANTSalt Rock GrillSeafood, American, SteakhouseThe popular restaurant features an inviting trendy vibe which includes an open kitchen. Varied menu options are listed such as tuna Alfredo penne pasta, roasted plank salmon and a short list of Prime steaks which are cooked over an oak fire. Thinking about dessert? The hot apple crisp pie is considered a favorite. A great view of the waterfront from the patio is a plus.

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From the Bay to the Beaches

Overview

location--solidClearwater Beach, FL (6)

location--solidSt. Pete Beach, FL (2)

location--solidSaint Petersburg Clearwater, FL (13)

location--solidTampa, FL (4)

location--solidIndian Rocks Beach, FL (2)

location--solidIndian Shores, FL (1)

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Clearwater Beach, FL (6)

St. Pete Beach, FL (2)

Saint Petersburg Clearwater, FL (13)

Tampa, FL (4)

Indian Rocks Beach, FL (2)

Indian Shores, FL (1)