A Family Getaway That Feels Like a True Escape

This stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast is home to America’s Favorite Beaches, including Clearwater Beach, recently named #1 Beach in Florida, #2 in the U.S. and among the Top 20 in the World by Tripadvisor. Pair that stunning shoreline with the perfect place to stay and your beach-day experience becomes even more memorable. 

Stay Steps From the Sand

• At Sandpearl Resort, you'll find that Gulf-front elegance meets family-friendly comfort. Private beach cabanas, a tranquil spa and expansive balconies set a relaxed tone from the moment you arrive – ideal for families who appreciate attentive service and plenty of room to unwind after a day playing in the sun.
• Nearby, sister resorts Opal Sands and Opal Sol welcome you with a sophisticated coastal aesthetic and panoramic Gulf views. You and your family can spend relaxed vacation days moving effortlessly between several pools, on-site restaurants and beautiful Clearwater Beach – with plenty of action and activities nearby.
• On St. Pete Beach, about 20 miles south of Clearwater, TradeWinds Resort is a multigenerational family favorite, complete with a giant inflatable slide on the sand, a floating water park in the Gulf and dedicated kids’ programming. Grandparents and parents can relax under an umbrella or swim while kids and teens test their courage on the High Tide Slide.

Some days call for splashy, high-energy fun. Others invite a slower, more intentional pace. Along Florida’s Gulf Coast, you can do both – often in the same afternoon – and any time of year.

Set Sail, Splash & Explore

• Young adventurers can channel their inner pirate aboard Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, where costumed crews, water cannons and treasure hunts turn the Gulf into an interactive stage. 

• For a little speed and plenty of dolphin action, hop aboard Little Toot Dolphin Adventure – named #4 among sailing and day-cruise experiences in Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards for 2026. As this cruise zips along the coast, its wake often attracts dolphins that love to surf right behind the boat.
• Looking for great way to cool off? Splash Harbour Water Park makes for an easy, laughter-filled afternoon of slides, splash zones and lazy-river drifting, ideal when you want big fun without a full-day commitment.

Slow Down & Soak It All In

• For teens and adults craving a unique and immersive experience, the clear kayak tour of pristine Shell Key with Get Up And Go Kayaking Tampa Bay is amazing! You'll be paddling in shallow waters where rays, fish, dolphins and manatees just might be swimming near you or under you. This tour was named the #1 Nature and Outdoors Activity in the U.S. and #2 in the world for 2026 in Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards. The nighttime "glow tour" is unforgettable.
• For a quiet kind of "wow" moment, head to Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters introduce you to rescued dolphins, sea turtles and the inspiring work of marine life rehabilitation.

• Ready for a serene beach day? Catch the ferry to Caladesi Island State Park, where a wide-open shoreline, calm Gulf waters and shell-strewn sands invite you to walk and swim. This place feels blissfully removed – because it is.
• Afterward, grab a bite at Ozona Blue, a waterfront favorite where families can settle in for sunset views and fresh Gulf seafood. Ask for a table by the pool (yes, this restaurant has a pool!) so you can keep an eye on the kiddos while relaxing with tasty bites and drinks with the adults in your group.

In St. Pete-Clearwater, beautiful art is not just on the walls of world-class museums, it also decorates downtown buildings, is celebrated in festivals, and offers hands-on opportunities for families.

• Learn about the genius of the famed Spanish surrealist, Salvador Dalí, at The Dalí Museum in St. Pete. Families can choose from two themed audio tours: the Family Mustache Tour or Teen Voices. Be sure to buy tickets to one of the immersive multi-media experiences in the Dalí Dome.
• Take a walking, biking or trolley tour to see some of the more than 600 stunning murals in St. Pete.
• Have an unforgettable experience with your family when you sign up for a glassblowing class through the Morean Arts Center's Glass Studio (suitable for ages 11 through adult) or watch a live glassblowing demonstration.

When the sun begins its nightly descent, St. Pete-Clearwater truly shines. There are so many ways to enjoy sunset: on the beach, on a sunset cruise, from a rooftop bar and more.

• One of our favorite ways is at the nightly Sunsets at Pier 60 celebration on Clearwater Beach, where you can shop from beachy vendors, get an ice cream treat and watch talented buskers entertain the crowd.

St. Pete-Clearwater moves at your family’s pace. One day might mean adventures on Jet Skis, parasailing or pirate cruises. The next is about beach chairs, spa time and relaxed lunch by the water. With award-winning beaches and beautiful beach resorts, it’s easy to start planning.

Next Steps Toward Sunny Skies:

• Book your hotel. Browse and compare hotel listings to find the perfect spot for your next vacation in St. Pete-Clearwater! Find family-friendly places to stay here.
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