The soft light of sunset is seen over the water and dock at the Dunedin Marina

Dunedin is full of scenic "Old Florida" places, such as the historic Dunedin Marina.

scottish heritage

Dunedin

The Scottish-influenced Dunedin is St. Pete-Clearwater’s fifth largest city. That said, this town feels like a throwback to a simpler, more serene Florida. Here, the pace is relaxed - perfect for exploring the city’s charming downtown - or for relaxing on a beautiful beach.


Beach Day

Note: Honeymoon Island State Park has reopened. Caladesi Island remains closed after two storms in fall of 2024. See our Current Beach Updates & Conditions page for more information on local beaches.

If island style is your style, you’ll revel in the natural beauty found at Dunedin’s two sister beach-parks - Caladesi Island State Park and Honeymoon Island State Park. The star attraction here is the beach, with soft, white sands and clear emerald waters. In fact, your Tampa Bay beach experience begins even before you arrive - open your car windows as you cross the Dunedin Causeway to take in salt breezes and the sight of folks fishing, boating and swimming in the calm waters of St. Joseph Sound. 

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A colorful sunset seen from the rooftop bar at Fenway Hotel.
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Fenway Hotel in Dunedin

Check out the view of the water and swaying palm trees from the rooftop at the Fenway Hotel.

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Where to Eat

Dunedin’s restaurant choices run the gamut from down-home to refined. The Black Pearl of Dunedin is most definitely refined - it’s renowned for fine French food in a romantic setting -  perfect for a birthday or celebratory dinner. Voted “Tampa Bay’s Best Waterfront Restaurant,” Bon Appetit’s menu leans towards seafood, though meat lovers will find excellent options, too. Their waterfront bar offers views of St. Joseph Sound, making it a favorite place for locals to relax. The Restorative in Dunedin has garnered prestigious awards for its innovative, changing menus.

Dining with friends (perhaps friends who travel with Fido)? Check out the casual-yet-delightful Living Room on Main for small plates meant to be shared - and even a special dog menu. Looking for amazing, authentic Mexican food? Family-owned Casa Tina is the place to be. Hungry for finger-licking barbeque? Check out Eli’s Bar B Que (Fridays and Saturdays only, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.). In the mood for Cajun specialties? Eat outside under the towering oaks at Happy’s Bayou Bites. For delicious nachos, burritos, tacos and baja bowls with a side of fun - make a bee-line for Salty Soul Island Kitchen

If by some possibility you still have room after dinner (isn't there always room for ice cream?), head straight over to the uber-popular Strachan’s Homemade Ice Cream for decadent flavors such as JaMocha Almond Chip and Cherry Wow-za.

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Events

The year kicks off in January with the vibrant Downtown Dunedin Art Festival, where the streets come alive with creativity, showcasing works from talented artists near and far. In April, the town proudly celebrates its Scottish roots at the Dunedin Highland Games & Festival—complete with traditional music, dancing and athletic competitions. As summer heats up, so does the celebration, with events like Dunedin Pride and the citrus-inspired Orange Festival adding fun and flavor to the season. When winter rolls around, the city slows down in style with the soulful sounds and fine wines of the annual Wine the Blues Festival

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Outdoor Activities

You’ll find there’s access by bike to the Pinellas Trail from many places in the city, and it’s easy to make small side trips to visit local shops and cafes.

Sunshine and the game of golf is a natural combination in the Tampa Bay area, and golfers will want to book a tee time at the Donald Ross-designed Dunedin Golf Club. This Donald Ross-designed course is undergoing renovations and is expected to open in late fall of 2024.

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How to Get Around

If you're visiting downtown, walking is the best way to explore the area's restaurants, shops and breweries. With plenty of free public parking options, it's easy to leave your car behind and explore this charming city by foot. Weekends can get busy, so for a completely car-free experience, hop on the Freebee, a free ride provided by the city. Tips aren't expected but are appreciated. Another fun and unique option is the Local Tiki Ride—a tropical, open-air bus that offers free rides around town (tips are expected for this ride).