A Local's Guide to St. Pete-Clearwater by Destiny Snyder (@GuidedByDestiny)

Start the day slow with seaside sips, serene beaches, and coastal cafes.

Coffee Spots Destiny will Wake Up Early For

• Grove Surf Cafe (Indian Rocks Beach): With bright, beachy decor, the sound of waves just steps away, and the scent of toasted coconut lattes in the air, Grove Surf Cafe is her ultimate feel-good spot. It’s got everything, excellent espresso, fresh breakfast bites (don’t miss the avocado toast), and a surf shop vibe. 
• Daycation Coffee (St. Pete): Daycation has a rotating menu of drinks that go beyond your average latte (think ube cold foam, Thai tea cold brew, or seasonal infusions), it’s the kind of place that makes coffee feel like an experience. Add in sleek interiors, tons of natural light, and a buzz of creative energy, and you’ve got a go-to spot that’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious.
• The Library (St. Pete): Elegant, peaceful, and multi-functional, The Library is Destiny’s favorite spot for a low-key, productive morning. Equal parts café, cocktail bar, and brunch spot, it offers rich coffee, elevated breakfast options, and cozy seating tucked into its book-filled nooks. 

Beach Escape on Indian Rocks Beach

After coffee, it’s time to hit the coast—and Indian Rocks Beach is Destiny’s happy place. This stretch of shoreline is quiet, laid-back, and dotted with charming beach access paths. She loves starting the day here with a solo sunrise stroll or a peaceful hour on the sand, just listening to the waves roll in.

No crowds. No chaos. Just gentle surf, warm sun, and the feeling that you’ve already won the day before 10 a.m.

Refuel with great food and unexpected finds.

Lunch Favorites

• Kooky Coconut (Indian Rocks Beach): Just steps from the sand, this beach shack is Destiny’s go-to after a sunny lounge session. The Cuban sandwich is the star, pressed to perfection, salty, savory, and exactly what you want after a beach day. Kooky Coconut is the definition of an easy, satisfying lunch break that feels like Florida through and through.
• Crabby’s Dockside (Clearwater Beach): When she’s feeling the pull of the pier, Destiny heads to Crabby’s for a seafood-forward feast with serious vacation energy. Her must-haves? The royal red shrimp—sweet, buttery, and a little addicting—and the crab legs, which are as fresh as they come. With a laid-back atmosphere and panoramic views of the Gulf, it’s a classic Florida lunch that’s both casual and coastal.
• Perry’s Porch (St. Pete Pier): At the entrance to the St. Pete Pier, Perry’s Porch is where Destiny presses pause. The ambiance is light and charming—white umbrellas, breezy shade, and the perfect place to sip a lemonade or sparkling wine while snacking on flavorful flatbreads or sandwiches. It's her top pick for a sunny reset before heading back out to explore.

Shop & Stumble on Something New

Destiny loves exploring local markets, wandering through vendor booths, sipping an iced tea or matcha, and chatting with local makers is her favorite way to soak up a city’s personality.

Whether it’s a planned Saturday morning at the St. Pete Saturday Morning Market or an impromptu stroll through a pop-up craft fair, she’s always on the lookout for:

• Artisan eats (think: locally made honey, spice blends, and baked goods)
• Handmade goods (jewelry, prints, ceramics, and one-of-a-kind statement pieces)
• Vintage finds and up-and-coming brands you won’t see anywhere else

Markets, for Destiny, are where travel meets connection. They’re lively, local, and always full of surprises—and more often than not, she walks away with both a new favorite snack and a new favorite story.

Sunset cocktails, cozy wine spots, and speakeasies? Yes, please.

Date Night & Drinks

• In Between Days: Hidden, intimate, and unlike anything else in St. Pete, In Between Days is a true gem in Destiny’s nightlife lineup. Inspired by Tokyo-style listening bars, this cozy lounge pairs a carefully curated vinyl soundtrack with dim lighting, minimalist design, and next-level cocktails that feel both refined and experimental for a true escape. 
• Dirty Laundry: Don’t let the name fool you—Dirty Laundry is a funky speakeasy hiding behind a faux laundromat entrance, and once you're in, it’s a whole different world. It’s part mystery, part party, and 100% fun—ideal for impressing first-timers or just shaking up a routine Friday night.
• Lolita’s Wine Market: When the mood calls for cozy and charming, Lolita’s is the move. Nestled in a relaxed corner of St. Pete, this wine market and kitchen is all about good food, easy laughs, and unpretentious pairings. Destiny loves coming here to unwind with a glass of something new—especially when paired with one of their small plates or charcuterie boards.
• Allelo: Elegant, social, and always buzzing, Allelo offers a more upscale dining and drinks experience with a Mediterranean soul. With its open-air patio, upscale interiors, and lively energy, it’s a go-to for celebrating something special—or just dressing up for the fun of it.

Stay Like A Local

• The Don CeSar, St. Pete Beach: It’s pink, it’s iconic, and Destiny-approved for its beach access, historic charm, and luxurious vibe.
• Wyndham Grand, Clearwater Beach: Perfectly located in the heart of the action with stunning ocean views and top-notch service.
• Clearwater Beach Marriott Sand Key: A peaceful, upscale retreat just off the main strip, offering breathtaking water views and premium amenities.
• The Moxy, Downtown St. Pete (future stay): Trendy, bold, and perfectly located for city exploring—Destiny’s excited to book her first stay soon.