St. Pete-Clearwater: Must Do’s & Hidden Gems Podcast
Visit St. Pete-Clearwater is excited to launch our brand-new podcast with the Tampa Bay Times, now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, iHeart and Amazon Music. Each episode is filled with insider tips, local voices, and hidden gems that will help you plan your next trip or rediscover what you love about our slice of paradise.
Gulfport, Ft. De Soto Park, Tierra Verde, Pass-A-Grille, and Weedon Island
Step off the beaten path and into the fun, quirky, and artsy community of Gulfport, located just minutes from downtown St. Pete. From outdoor markets and live music to unique shops, local brews, and colorful festivals, Gulfport is the perfect spot to soak up authentic Florida charm.
If you’re craving a mix of adventure and natural beauty, this episode also dives into the pristine wonders of Ft. De Soto Park, Tierra Verde, Pass-A-Grille Beach, and Weedon Island Preserve. Blogger and world traveler Travelling Ted shares stories of kayaking, hiking, and birding, and introduces listeners to his version of “Florida’s Big Five” wildlife.
The episode wraps up with host Kerry O’Reilly from the Tampa Bay Times and audio engineer Dave Morrison at Pass-A-Grille Beach, trying to spot the elusive “green flash” as the sun sinks into the Gulf.
St. Pete and St. Pete Beach
Where else can you find the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s works outside Spain, Michelin-rated restaurants, bustling microbreweries, art galleries, live music venues, and a family-friendly children’s museum—just minutes from award-winning beaches? The answer: St. Pete and St. Pete Beach.
In this episode, Tampa Bay Times Food and Dining Critic Helen Freund and local influencer Kathy Fortner share their favorite restaurants, hidden gems, and experiences for every generation. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, foodie, or beach lover, you’ll discover how St. Pete seamlessly blends culture with coastal fun.
Indian Rocks Beach, Florida
Indian Rocks Beach, Florida
Indian Shores Beach, Florida
Indian Shores Beach, Florida
The Beaches – Belleair, Indian Rocks, Indian Shores, The Redingtons, Madeira, and Treasure Island
With 35 miles of sun-soaked beaches and emerald-green waters, St. Pete-Clearwater is the ultimate coastal escape. This episode begins at the Florida Botanical Gardens, where you can wander lush landscapes filled with native plants, birds, and wildlife before heading toward the shoreline.
Listeners are then guided through each unique beach community, from the laid-back charm of Indian Rocks to the family fun of Treasure Island, the quiet stretches of Belleair Beach, and the welcoming sands of the Redingtons and Madeira Beach.
Finally, we stop at Hubbard’s Marina, where fishing expert Dylan Hubbard shares insider tips for making the most of a day on the Gulf waters.
Things to Do
The Sponge Docks that line pedestrian-friendly Dodecanese Boulevard are not only still there, they’re a huge draw for the town, which is often referred to as the Sponge Capital of the World.
Want to experience a day in the life of a Tarpon Springs sponge diver? Hop aboard an “expedition” in search of real sponges. After an interesting and scenic cruise, pick up a sponge or two of your own at one of the shops that line Dodecanese Boulevard. If you want more background on the area, download the free “Walk Tarpon Springs Audio Tour” which highlights 10 stops in the Greektown Historic District or visit the Tarpon Springs Historical Museum.
Beyond the sponge docks, Southern Living says it's also one of the dreamiest towns in Florida for antique shopping.
See All Things to Do in Tarpon SpringsTarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island, and Anclote Key
St. Pete-Clearwater isn’t just about beaches—it’s also home to incredible history and cultural richness. In this episode, we explore Tarpon Springs, a historic Greek community where sponge divers still harvest sponges from the Gulf and where authentic Greek culture thrives in the restaurants and shops along the waterfront.
From there, the journey continues to Palm Harbor, where you can hop on the Pinellas Trail for a scenic ride, run, or stroll. Just a short distance away, nature lovers will fall in love with the pristine shores of Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island, and Anclote Key Preserve State Park—perfect for a peaceful afternoon and unforgettable sunsets.
Our hosts share their favorite local spots to relax, recharge, and connect with the natural beauty of the area.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, Safety Harbor, and Dunedin
Consistently named one of the best beaches in the world, Clearwater Beach is famous for its powder-soft, sugar-white sand. But there’s so much more to discover beyond the shoreline.
In this episode, locals highlight:
- The legendary grouper sandwiches you can’t miss on Clearwater Beach
- Florida’s oldest microbrewery in Dunedin, complete with kilts and bagpipes
- World-class live entertainment and indie acts in Clearwater
- Luxurious spa escapes in Safety Harbor
It’s a lively mix of food, fun, music, and relaxation—all waiting for you in the St. Pete-Clearwater region.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for your tenth, our new podcast will guide you to the best experiences across St. Pete-Clearwater. Listen now on Spotify Apple Podcast, iHeart and Amazon Music and start imagining your next unforgettable getaway.