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By day, soft waves roll up onto white sand, sunlight warms you and tropical drinks cool you off. By night, candlelight illuminates your gourmet dinner, moonlight smiles on your waterfront stroll and dancing carries you through the night – until it's time to head back to your beachfront abode. It's the picture of paradise, for you and your other half.
Florida has much to offer in the way of romance, whether you're looking for a laidback beach retreat or exciting city escape. But maybe you want a little of both – variety, after all, is the spice of life. The St. Petersburg-Clearwater area is one destination that offers the best of both romantic worlds.
Romance on the Beach
For a mix of quiet shores and classic beach amenities, check out Fort De Soto Park, TripAdvisor's No. 1 Beach in America in 2009. The park's natural beauty and expansive beaches offer couples the chance to find a secluded spot and bask in the sun. But kayaking, picnicking, hiking, biking and swimming are also within easy reach.
A short drive north, explore St. Pete Beach, voted TripAdvisor's No. 1 Beach in the U.S. and No. 5 in the world for 2012, based on millions of traveler reviews. At the quiet end of the strip, Pass-a-Grille Beach is loaded with historic charm and great sunset spots.
Farther north, Clearwater Beach is famous for its fine white sand and fun atmosphere, and when the sun goes down it gets even hotter. Pier 60 has nightly sunset celebrations featuring street vendors, artists, live music and street performers that can range from clowns to fire dancers. The entertainment is free, and so is a romantic post-sunset walk on the beach.
If you're craving more secluded shores, take the ferry to Caladesi Island State Park – it's accessible only by boat. You'll find dramatic white-sand shores and pristine nature just waiting to be explored at this award winning beach.
For dining along the coast, try Salt Rock Grill in Indian Shores, known for its fresh seafood and cool, elegant ambiance. For something more casual, head to the rooftop deck of the Hurricane in St. Pete Beach, where every table has a wide-open view of the beach, and enjoy the sunset and a grouper sandwich.
Beach-loving couples have many options when it comes to accommodations. On Clearwater Beach, the ultra-sophisticated Sandpearl Resort takes up residence along 700 feet of spectacular beachfront. Wind down the day and gather 'round the cozy campfire at the Tate Island Grill's beachfront fire pit. The Loews Don CeSar Hotel, a luxurious area icon known as "the Pink Palace," is a historic hotel on St. Pete Beach that has hosted such notables as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Al Capone. Also on St. Pete Beach, the TradeWinds Island Resorts specialize in more laidback pampering and are rich with resort amenities.
Fun for Couples in the City
Downtown St. Petersburg is sprinkled with variety. It's known for its art museums, including the internationally famous Dali Museum, which showcases the mind-bending work of the Spanish surrealist in a brand new building that represents the artist’s blend of classical and fantastical styles. Eighteen-inch-thick concrete walls make up the 66,000-square-foot structure while a seemingly fluid glass portion, known as “The Enigma,” wraps around the building like one of Dali’s melting clocks. Shop the boutiques and stores of along Central Avenue and Beach Drive where you can also grab a bite to eat at one of several restaurants. Later, explore the downtown waterfront, crowned by the Pier and Vinoy Park.
At night, sample the amazing restaurants and hot night spots downtown. Ceviche features tapas, the Spanish style of dining that focuses on small, flavorful portions – perfect for sharing. Cafe Alma also offers European charm and an eclectic fine-dining menu.
After dinner, check out the Push Ultra Lounge for some specialty drinks and dancing. If you want to stick closer to the water, head to Cha Cha Coconuts on The Pier's rooftop for a panoramic view of Tampa Bay and the St. Petersburg skyline.
Urban-leaning couples should check out the Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club, a landmark area hotel downtown. This stunning Mediterranean Revival structure, built in 1925, has housed presidents and movie stars. And, there's no better place to enjoy a cocktail than on the veranda overlooking the the Vinoy waterfront basin. The area also has several cozy, Victorian-style B&Bs such as Sunset Bay Inn, LaVeranda and Watergarden Inn at the Bay.
Romantic, Small-town Hideaways
Try to carve out some time for two other St. Petersburg area gems, Dunedin and Tarpon Springs. Dunedin is rich with European flavor and small-town charm, including a bustling little Main Street. The town has Scottish roots, but you'll find many other influences here. One restaurant to try is The Living Room on Main, you'll feel right at home in this beautifully appointed yet casual eatery. Or try the Black Pearl of Dunedin for an intimate downtown setting. Both are within walking distance of the Meranova Guest Inn, a luxury B&B that lives to pamper.
In the Greek enclave of Tarpon Springs, couples can take a boat ride to witness sponge diving firsthand, window shop along Dodecanese Boulevard and try Greek delicacies at authentic restaurants and cafés. If you enjoy architecture, check out the collection of Victorian homes along nearby Spring Bayou.
