Thinking of clear blue skies and turquoise oceans for your next vacation? St. Pete/Clearwater serves up a full dose of Caribbean vibes without the hassle of long international flights.
Floribbean Vibe on Florida’s Gulf Coast
Cozy up under a poolside cabana with a piña colada in hand, or enjoy the Gulf of Mexico from your raft as you relax under the year-round sunshine on St. Pete/Clearwater’s 35 miles of white sand beaches. Skip the high rises and crowds at Pass-a-Grille Beach for a “groovy” island vibe. Technically part of St. Pete Beach, the small peninsula is known by locals for its laidback pace and unspoiled shoreline; pick up beach chairs and umbrellas, available for rental, and enjoy paradise. For even more of a natural oasis, head to Caladesi Island State Park, where crystal-clear water meets untouched shoreline, or experience the No. 1 Beach in America, Clearwater Beach. Once you’ve built your base tan, head to the rooftop bar at Hurricane Seafood Restaurant, or visit Paradise Grille for casual on-the-beach dining.
Island Vibes without Overseas Travel
Skip the long (and expensive) international flights and plan an equally exotic vacation to St. Pete/Clearwater. Two international airports, Tampa International Airport (TPA) and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), service more than 20 million passengers each year. Allegiant offers 55 domestic, non-stop flights to the area—making it both easy and affordable for US travelers (no passport necessary!). St. Pete/Clearwater is also within driving distance of most of the southern United States, and offers a beach getaway near the bustling theme parks in Orlando, which is an easy 90-minute drive away.
International Culture in St. Pete/Clearwater
More than beaches, St. Pete/Clearwater is also rich with international flavor. Find everything from Greek culture in Tarpon Springs to history museums and hands-on art experiences here. Admire the work of surrealist Salvador Dalí at the Dalí Museum in St. Pete or be mesmerized by Dale Chihuly’s spiraling glass works, part of the Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center. Street art is also a celebrated art outlet in Downtown’s Central Arts District where more than 70 largescale murals decorate the sides of buildings.
Safe, Family-Friendly Environment
St. Pete/Clearwater is a safe and family-friendly travel alternative for those seeking a tropical oasis. The area is free of the travel warnings and advisories common in other destinations. Attractions are also safe for the whole family, with options like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Fort De Soto Park, named America’s best family beach by Parents magazine in 2011.
New Hotels Open for Business
Stay at one of St. Pete/Clearwater’s new or rennovated hotels and resorts, many of which offer beach and ocean views. To name just a few, the new Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach is a two-tower resort with views of the beach, and the family-friendly Sirata Beach Resort is located directly on St. Pete Beach. Some other trusted favorites include the luxurious Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club and the “pink palace,” The Don CeSar.
Find your favorite beach here, along with a hotel or resort that speaks to your vacation vibe.
