Shopping

The beauty of places like the St. Pete Pier, John’s Pass in Madeira Beach and Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach – aside from the gorgeous water views – is that experiencing these attractions goes hand-in-hand with discovering jewelry and other items you’ll only find here – whether it’s vendors selling handmade goods in pop-up spaces or local retailers in brick-and-mortar shops. The same goes for the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, where the sponges are a pleasant surprise for skincare aficionados back home. You’re bound to find something wonderful that’ll remind you of your time here.

And speaking of sightseeing, cultural spots such as the Salvador Dalí Museum and the Dale Chihuly Collection have exquisite gift shops with one-of-a-kind finds. And for the little ones, be sure to stop by the gift shop at Clearwater Marine Aquarium for dolphin-themed souvenirs that’ll dazzle the little naturalists in your life.

To get your steps in as you shop, head to Central Avenue in downtown St. Pete, where imaginative clothing and decor shops line the hex block-paved sidewalk. Pick up a one-of-a-kind outfit at Brutique, Misred, Shoreline Sugars, Atlas Men’s Lifestyle Shop, Ashe Couture and beyond – and rare decor from Zazoo’d as well as the antique shops of the Grand Central District. 

Other irresistibly walkable shopping districts: Corey Avenue and Pass-a-Grille’s Historic 8th Avenue in St. Pete Beach, Gulfport’s Beach Boulevard, Main Street in Safety Harbor and downtown Dunedin. 

Learn more about shopping on St. Pete-Clearwater’s “Main Streets.”

Whether you blew out your flip-flop, are seeking a breezy beach getup or want to rent a standup paddleboard, local surf shops deliver. Nekton Surf Shop is a locally loved mom-and-pop shop in Indian Rocks Beach that has a huge inventory of beachwear as well as surfing, paddling and skateboarding essentials. Get around in style with the beach cruisers they rent here. North of downtown St. Pete, get your beachy threads at Reno Beach Surf Shop – brands you’ll find here include Billabong, O’Neill and Roxy. Suncoast Surf Shop on Treasure Island is a legendary spot for surf aficionados – you’re just steps away from the iconic Florida Shell Shop, where you can check out impressive mollusks – and pick up some shiny shell jewelry and decor. And just down the road in St. Pete Beach, Lenny’s has stylish beachwear and tons of bikes and boards for rent.

Shop for beloved high-end brands right in the heart of downtown St. Pete at Sundial, where you’ll find the likes of White House/Black Market, Tommy Bahama and Jackie Z. Catch a movie at the theater or do happy hour at Sea Salt, the gourmet restaurant on the second floor. The surrounding area also has some great boutiques – so keep an eye out.

Who doesn’t love a tasty treat you can only find in St. Pete-Clearwater? When you’re in St. Pete, Mazzaro’s Italian Market is a culinary destination you won’t want to miss, from coffee and pastries to fresh pasta and wine. Go there on a weekday if you can – this spot can draw a crowd.

Surprise your loved ones back home with a box of gourmet truffles from William Dean Chocolates in Bellair Bluffs – they’re (almost) too pretty to eat! In St. Pete, Sweet Divas Chocolates serves up delicious sweets on Beach Drive. Find playful throwback candies at retro Candy Kitchen in Madeira Beach or Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop in downtown St. Pete – from saltwater taffy to rare Pez dispensers.