St. Pete-Clearwater’s Beaches and Experiences Recognized as Best of the Best in the U.S. and Across the Globe

Beaches, dining and local experiences among the top recipients for Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards

ST. PETE-CLEARWATER, Fla. (Feb. 19, 2026) - St. Pete-Clearwater’s award-winning sugar-white sand and local experiences – yet again – continue to garner nationwide and global recognition, this time making a significant presence in the 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” Awards. From beaches to top outdoor adventures, the destination continues to define beach culture and solidify its status as a premier destination for travelers worldwide. The Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best takes into account the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings, and ranks the very best accommodations, destinations, beaches, restaurants, and things to do in specific categories and geographic areas, as rated and reviewed by travelers. Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award winners are among the top 1% of listings on Tripadvisor.

St. Pete-Clearwater is home to America’s Favorite Beaches, and prestigious recognitions such as Tripadvisor’s “Best of the Best” Awards provide further validation. 

  • Clearwater Beach was honored as one of the Best Beaches in the World – the only Florida beach and one of only three in the entire country to land on the prestigious list – while also securing a top spot for the Best Beach in the U.S. behind only La Jolla, Calif.
  • Honeymoon Island State Park earned its place among the Top 10 Best Beaches in the U.S. Known for its pristine sand and emerald waters, it's yet another recognition for one of St. Pete-Clearwater’s gems.

The destination’s recognitions from travelers extends beyond the shoreline, with activities and dining experiences rated among the Best of the Best:

  • Outdoor Adventure
    • Get Up and Go Kayaking at Shell Key was crowned the #1 Nature and Outdoors Activity in the U.S. and achieved a stunning #2 global ranking as well as inclusion among the top 10 overall Top Experiences in the United States.
  • Also, on the water
    • Little Toot Dolphin Adventure was listed among the Top 4 Best Sailing and Day Cruises in the U.S.
  • Pet-Friendly Dining
    • OCC Roadhouse revved up the rankings, placing #3 for Pet-Friendly Restaurants in the U.S.
  • Fine Dining
    • Caretta on the Gulf was named #11 in the U.S. for "Best Fine Dining" in the 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards, the only Florida restaurant to earn the honor.

Adding to the region’s momentum, the JW Marriott Clearwater Beach continues its streak of high-profile accolades. On the heels of a MICHELIN Guide recommendation and being recognized as a top Florida Resort in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers Survey, the resort has officially earned its place in the 2026 Forbes Travel Guide.

- AMERICA'S FAVORITE BEACHES & THEN SOME -

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About Visit St. Pete-Clearwater:
Soaking up the sun on the sugar white sand, enjoying the interactive art and museums, taking in a waterfront concert, dining at Michelin-rated restaurants and capping the experience with a picturesque sunset – all in a single day – is what makes St. Pete-Clearwater America’s Favorite Beaches. Beyond the 35-mile stretch of award-winning coastline, the destination is a harmonious blend of natural beauty, history, creativity, and adventure, nestled between the emerald Gulf waters on Florida’s west coast and Tampa Bay. A premier destination for solo adventurers, friends, sports enthusiasts, film producers, business professionals and families, this sun-soaked peninsula seamlessly transitions world-class cultural experiences and a sophisticated urban pulse with endless sun and fun. 

Discover the adventures that await at VisitSPC.com.

Media contacts:
Eddie Delgado, [email protected], 727-415-1337
Jason Latimer, [email protected], 727-386-3783