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Best of Winners 2026

Discover the very best places to go and things to do in St. Pete-Clearwater, hand-picked by locals and visitors alike! 


We asked, and you answered. Read on to find the best experiences in St. Pete-Clearwater – most-loved beaches, restaurants, places to stay and things to do – as ranked by our destination's many fans. Peruse the results of our 2025 Best Of survey – you're sure to find someplace new to explore and enjoy. 

 

1

Best Beaches & Outdoor Fun

clearwater beach

Stunning Clearwater Beach is a perennial favorite for beach lovers.

The beaches of St. Pete-Clearwater are a perfect escape, so see what fun awaits you along the shore. Also discover our best boating and water adventures!

See the Best Beaches & Outdoor Fun
2

Best Places to Stay

The Fenway Hotel with girls on balcony with palm trees, Dunedin Florida

Built in 1924, the Fenway Hotel is a Jazz Age icon and home to the county’s first radio station.

From boutique gems to luxurious resorts, beachside, bayside or in the city, we've got you covered with wonderful places to stay on your vacation or staycation.

See the Best Places to Stay
3

Best Things to Do

a woman holds out a bright bouquet of sunflowers at St. Pete's Saturday morning market

St. Petersburg's Saturday Morning Market is a must-do activity.

From museums and spas to family activities and fabulous outdoor markets, there's are so many fun activities in St. Pete-Clearwater. See the top choices for things to do in our destination.

See the Best Things to Do
4

Best Restaurants & Dining

A waitress stands in the doorway of Pia's Trattoria in Gulfport

Trattoria is an Italian word, and means “eating house.” Enjoy simple, fresh food at Pia's Trattoria in Gulfport.

The culinary scene is top-notch in St. Pete-Clearwater, with options for any budget and food preference. Find our best restaurants, brunches, coffee shops and more!

See the Best Restaurants, Coffee Shops & More
5

Best Bars, Cocktails & Breweries

A photo of a pink cocktail with two straws on a bar

Gigglewaters serves innovative cocktails in a unique speakeasy setting.

With stunning rooftop bars, laid-back places to enjoy a glass of wine, fun beach bars and award-winning breweries, you'll have plenty of places to enjoy a night (or day) out on the town.

See the Best Bars, Cocktails & Breweries
6

Best Festivals, Events & Live Music

concert

The BayCare Sound at Coachman Park in Clearwater is an impressive outdoor music venue.

St. Pete-Clearwater has something fun going on no matter what time of year you visit! Check out some of our best festivals and places to listen to live music.

See the Best Festivals & Live Music Venues
7

Best 727 Influencers & Artisans

a glamorous woman in a rust-colored dress poses in the atrium at the dali museum

Influencer Alexia Gonzalez blogs about the Gala Life, with an emphasis on luxury travel, style, food and wellness.

Learn about the hometown influencers who help promote our destination, as well as local makers who create unique products enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. Want to dive deeper? Read our feature story on the Best Local Makers in St. Pete-Clearwater.

See the Best Local Influencers & Makers
8

Best Trip & Event Planning

Couple on beach in front of Don Cesar

The Don Cesar is a beautiful backdrop for hosting a wedding or event.

See the best places to host your wedding, or seek convenient and eco-friendly public transportation options.

See the Best Trip & Event Planning