Cruising From Tampa? Extend Your Vacation in St. Pete-Clearwater

St. Pete-Clearwater is home to some of America's Favorite Beaches, known for their soft, sugar-white sand and calm Gulf waters, making it easy for you to find your perfect stretch of sand. Clearwater Beach frequently earns top rankings for its wide shoreline and festive atmosphere (including a nightly sunset celebration), while St. Pete Beach offers a relaxed vibe with stunning views and sunsets. For the ultimate in coastal vibes, spend the day island hopping to Shell Key or Caladesi Island. If you're looking for a quiet beach experience, Pass-a-Grille Beach or Indian Rocks Beach are laid-back and lovely.

Beyond the beach, St. Pete-Clearwater in Tampa Bay offers endless ways to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Paddle through mangrove tunnels on a guided kayak tour, spot dolphins on a boat cruise in Clearwater Harbor or explore miles of scenic trails and picnic spots at Fort De Soto Park. Caladesi Island State Park offers an untouched, natural escape accessible only by boat or ferry. Beautiful parks and preserves such as Sawgrass Lake Park, Brooker Creek Preserve, and Boyd Hill Nature Preserve offer chances to spot native wildlife. Biking along the Pinellas Trail, fishing from local piers or enjoying waterfront parks and playgrounds makes it easy to stay active while soaking up Florida’s sunshine and coastal beauty.

Families can get hands-on at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to rescued dolphins and sea turtles, or enjoy a stroll through Sunken Gardens, where winding paths and waterfalls captivate visitors of all ages (not to mention the talking tropical birds and a small flock of flamingos). Tip: Great Explorations children's museum is next door to Sunken Gardens, and perfect for those traveling with little ones. You'll find plenty of mini-golf options, plus there's Splash Harbour water park for hours of fun with the kids. Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise and the Pirate's Ransom are super-popular cruises for families. The Sunsets at Pier 60 nightly celebration is a can't-miss activity for those traveling with kids.

Choose from a diverse mix of places to stay, from iconic resorts (such as The Don CeSar, the Vinoy and Opal Sol) as well as boutique hotels like Hotel Zamora, and small, charming hotels such as the Coconut Inn. You'll find plenty of upscale spa resorts, too, including the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, the Safety Harbor Resort & Spa, and Sandpearl Resort, offering the ultimate in relaxation. Many hotels feature direct beach access and Gulf views. 
 

The dining scene in St. Pete-Clearwater is exciting, with fresh seafood served dockside along the coast at places like Salt Rock Grill, Frenchy's Rockaway Grill, and Crabby's Beachside Pavilion. There are plenty of fun beach bars (try Jimmy B's, Sloppy Joe's or The Undertow). And rooftop restaurants and bars are the perfect spot to watch the sunset with a colorful drink and a delicious meal.

For great international restaurants, as well as chef-driven award-winners, experience dining in St. Pete, where you cannot go wrong with top spots such as Fortu, Il Ritorno, Sushi Sho Rexley, Wild Child and many more.

Art lovers can discover the Dalí Museum in downtown St. Petersburg, home to a huge collection of Salvador Dalí’s work, as well as creative rotating exhibits. You can stroll through The Chihuly Collection for stunning glass art, or visit Imagine Museum or the Duncan McClellan Gallery for more beautiful glass works. Other top spots include The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art and the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg. Several communities have regular art walks (St. Pete's is the second Saturday of each month).
 

There are plenty of hidden gems for you to discover in St. Pete-Clearwater, if you have a few extra days before or after your cruise. Visit charming downtown Dunedin with its charming shops and restaurants. Stroll the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks and eat delicious Greek food at this tucked-away town. Explore Safety Harbor's downtown area, and be sure to visit Whimseyland and the Safety Harbor Art and Music Center (stop in at The Tides Market, which was recognized by the MICHELIN Guide Florida). Quirky Gulfport is a fun place to visit, with its small shops and waterfront restaurants.