St. Pete Beach Vacation Information
If the first thing that comes to mind when you start daydreaming of a vacation is sparkling sands overlooking brilliant blue waters, then a beach vacation in St. Pete Beach is the thing for you. Located just southwest of Tampa and boasting the largest stretch of undeveloped public beach in the area, St. Pete Beach frequently ranks among the best beaches in the world – and in fact, this gem was voted as the No. 1 Beach in the U.S. and No. 5 in the world by TripAdvisor as recently as 2012. And, the great thing about that is that it is voted on by travelers – not editors or critics.
Blessed with year-round sunshine – the Sun makes an appearance an average of 361 days per year here – and mild temperatures, St. Pete Beach is actually located on the barrier island southwest of the City of St Petersburg. This location surrounded by water and miles upon miles of sandy beaches means that it is a haven for sunbathers, recreational enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Watersports are as abundant as grains of sand here, with parasailing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, kiteboarding and countless other activities all complementing the spectacular swimming in the crystal clear Gulf waters. You just never know…perhaps a school of dolphins will come up and frolic around your feet as you wade out into the Gulf. This Southwest Florida vacation spot truly is like a beach painting come to life.
Back on land, visitors will enjoy exploring the colorful culture and art of the area. The Corey Avenue District and the Pass-a-Grille Historic District offer a lively mix of romantic restaurants and cafes, family friendly specialty shops and galleries as well as the classic Beach Theatre. Venture just a few minutes off the island and back on the mainland and experience a roller coaster of imagery at the nearby Salvador Dali Museum in St Petersburg. Or take a trip back in time at the historic Fort De Soto Park or enjoy the dining, shopping and entertainment of the St Petersburg Pier.
Outdoor enthusiasts will want to catch the undisturbed natural beauty and eclectic coastal wildlife with a ferry ride over to the Caladesi Island State Park. A kayak ride through the calm waters is always fun, and provides an uncommon vantage point for vacations – a view of the land from water.
And, of course, being surrounded by water on all sides means there is a place to hang a fishing pole or rod and reel practically in every direction. From sport fishing on a charter to fishing in ankle deep water at the water’s edge, St Pete Beach can make an angler out of anyone.
So whether you are looking for location to get away from it all and be a beach bum, or you are active-types looking to experience thrills and explore historic forts and sites – a vacation to St Pete Beach strikes the perfect balance.