The Ultimate Girlfriends' Getaway in St. Pete/Clearwater

From crystal-clear Gulf waters to diverse cultural experiences and a thriving culinary scene, St. Pete/Clearwater is one of the best places for a girlfriends’ getaway. 

Two young women in swimsuits relax by the pool surrounded by palm trees at The Saint Hotel in St. Pete Beach

Stay in style at The Saint, just a few minutes' walk to award-winning St. Pete Beach.

You don’t have to limit yourself to the beach, as there are so many fun things to do and see! Follow along for travel tips from Iesha (@livinglesh) and Jessica (@msmooretravels) from their recent getaway in St. Pete/Clearwater. 


 

two women in colorful summer clothes walk down a path lined with palm trees away from St. Pete Beach

Expect a relaxed, carefree vibe on St. Pete Beach.

Fun Things to Do

Beaches

St. Pete/Clearwater is known for beaches which boast clear emerald-green water and soft white sand. There are many to choose from including St. Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach, Upham Beach, Honeymoon Island State Park and Madeira Beach – just to name a few.

 

Cabana Club

70th Ave. & Beach Plaza, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

A day at the beach: perfection. Carrying all of your things to the beach? Not so much. For a luxurious and hassle-free experience, rent a cabana from Cabana Club. They provide a tent or umbrella, chairs, blanket, towels, a cooler, Bluetooth speaker, wireless device charger and sunscreen. All you have to do is show up and enjoy! Cabana Club also picks everything up when you're done. This makes going to the beach a breeze. The cabanas themselves are truly beautiful, and the experience of just arriving and being able to enjoy the clear water and sunshine without worrying about carrying anything, setting it up, and taking it down is just amazing in itself. Check out Jessica's video here.

 

A woman in a clear see-through kayak in the mangroves of St. Pete/Clearwater

Clear kayaks are an amazing way to experience kayaking at Shell Key Preserve.
 

Clear Kayaking

With the waters being so clear in this Florida destination, it’s a must that you go clear kayaking. Iesha and Jessica booked an experience with Get Up and Go Kayaking Shell Key Preserve where they offer single and tandem kayaks. During the tour, the guide will take you around to gorgeous mangroves and over to a pristine beach where you can look for seashells and just hang out and relax. While on your kayak tour, you may also see some local wildlife including dolphins, manatees, different species of birds, mangrove tree crabs, fish and more. It’s a magical experience that you can’t pass up while you’re visiting the area. Check out more from lesha's video here.

the exterior of the Dali Museum's geodesic dome reflects the clouds and sky

The Enigma, part of the Dalí Museum's exterior, reflects the clouds and blue sky in its geodesic dome.

The Dalí Museum

One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33701

One of the many great museums to visit while you’re in St. Pete is the Dalí Museum. Filled with a variety of the famous surrealist's works, the museum offers a chance to walk through several exhibits as well as a garden area to explore eclectic and beautiful art.

A neon blue red and purple kaleidoscope of colors at Fairgrounds St. Pete

Neon lights and colors accent many of the art works at Fairgrounds St. Pete.

a colorful wall mural depicts a mermaid with a sign for the Mermaid Motel at Fairgrounds St. Pete

A colorful wall mural beckons visitors to the Mermaid Star Motel at Fairgrounds St. Pete.

Fairgrounds St. Pete

800 28th St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33712

For those who are looking to take some Instagram-worthy shots, make Instagram Reels or TikToks, or just to have some fun and explore interactive pieces of art, then you need to stop by The Fairgrounds St. Pete. This unique art exhibition is filled with so many fun artistic pieces with plenty of neon flair. They encourage you to take as many photos and videos as you want and if you’re looking to do a little more, there's a scavenger hunt you can take part in while you explore. Check out lesha's video here.

 

Rent a "Sling Shot" or a Golf Cart

Looking to see St. Pete/Clearwater in style? Rent a slingshot or a golf cart (which you can drive along roads of 35 mph or under)! During our trip, we rented a slingshot from Scoot Scoot Rentals which was an easy process. It gave us plenty of time to drive around while we visited various places in downtown St. Pete. We also talked to several people who rented golf carts, and their recommendation was to either rent for the entire time you are there or rent daily and use it as your method of transportation while staying in St. Pete. The golf carts can fit up to six people depending on which golf cart you choose. You can rent golf carts from St. Pete Elite Carts and if you rent for more than two days, they’ll deliver the golf cart to you.

A group of flamingos refreshing at a small pond under a flowery tree.

The beloved flamingos are a big draw at Sunken Gardens just north of downtown St. Pete.

Sunken Gardens

1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33704

Sunken Gardens is a gorgeous 100-year-old garden filled with tropical plants and trees from around the world, along with flamingos, macaws, butterflies, and small waterfalls. Enjoy spending time at Sunken Gardens as you walk along the winding paths and across bridges over koi ponds. The best time to visit is right when the gardens open because it's cooler and fewer people are there. Be sure to arrive by 3 or 3:30 p.m., as the gardens typically close at 4:30 p.m.

Coffee and pastries at 2D Café

2D Café's design by Chad Mize creates a unique vibe for your brew

Great Places to Eat

2D Cafe

2105 Central Avenue, St Pete, FL 33701

This isn’t your typical coffee shop. Inspired by the great cafés of Europe, where you can enjoy a glass of wine or beer, where conversation blooms and writers, artists, activists, and intellectuals make their mark, 2D Café has made a conscious decision to slow things down. The cafe works with local suppliers and bakeries to source the freshest and highest-quality offerings. They offer a wide variety of hot and iced drinks, as well as savory and sweet food options. If you’re planning on going and want to sit down at the café, be sure to get there early and grab a table. It can fill up quite quickly, but it is a place that is worth your while.

two women laugh over tropical drinks at the bar at 82 Degrees at the Saint Hotel in St. Pete Beach

Relax at the bar at 82 Degrees at the stylish Saint Hotel in laid-back St. Pete Beach.

82 Degrees

7203 Sunset Way, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

Looking out over the Gulf of Mexico with a stellar view of the sunset, 82 Degrees offers a nature-imbued interior and fresh Southern coastal cuisine to launch you into an unhurried coastal vacation. Whether you're dining in for light bites and happy hour or a leisurely dinner, 82 Degrees provides a space for craft cocktail-sipping, fine wine tasting, and local beer with al fresco dining options and live music. With locally sourced produce and seasonal specials, this spot is a favorite amongst locals and travelers alike.

a tight shot of food from Bodega

Try the unique "Frita of the Month" at Bodega in downtown St. Pete.

Bodega

1180 Central Ave., St Pete, FL 33705

Famous for its Cuban sandwich, St. Pete's Bodega is a great casual dining destination. Nestled in the bustling Edge District, Bodega has a commitment to fresh, made-to-order food and you can tell in every bite. This is a perfect marriage of culinary creativity and an unapologetic appreciation for authenticity. It's definitely a “come-as-you-are" place to dine on award-winning cuisine. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan offerings, too.

A family walks past diners at outdoor tables at Cassis in downtown St. Pete at dusk,

Expect a European cafe atmosphere, friendly service and delicious food at Cassis in downtown St. Pete.

Cassis

170 Beach Dr., St. Petersburg, FL, 33701

With its French café seating (both indoor and outdoor) on buzzy Beach Drive in downtown St. Pete, Cassis is the ideal place to grab brunch seven days a week. Combining traditional European style with the relaxed flair of American eateries, they offer American classics with subtle French influences for brunch, lunch and dinner. You'll find simple, hearty food and drinks at affordable prices in a vibrant, friendly atmosphere. The French toast, macaroons, bakery items, and a mimosa pitcher are must-orders here. 

Two dishes on a table at the rooftop of The Dewey overlooking sunset at Pass-A-Grille

Visit The Dewey in St. Pete Beach at sunset for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Dewey Beach Bar & Grill

109 8th Ave., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

Featuring re-imagined beach cuisine, a destination-driven wine list, and craft cocktails, The Dewey is a great place to spend a few hours while in St. Pete Beach. Their brunch will start your day off on a high note, or you can choose to wrap your day up with a delectable dinner here. From the Bourbon pancakes to the Croque Madame, it’s hard not to order a little bit of everything. Be sure to ask for seating in the patio area which is secluded from the outside area and has a relaxing, gorgeous atmosphere.

 

Grove Surf + Coffee

7370 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

Located in sunny St. Pete Beach, Grove is a mixed-concept space featuring a retail surf shop and a specialty coffee bar. This is an inviting space for you to meet with friends, shop and enjoy a fine cup of coffee. It’s the perfect way to start your day. 

Maritana Grill

Adding to the Don CeSar's iconic status is Maritana Grill, the award-winning restaurant housed within the famous resort.

Maritana

3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

You can find the Maritana inside the legendary Don Cesar hotel. From the oysters all the way to the dessert, each bite was well worth the price and the luxury experience. The award-winning service makes you feel as if you are the only one in the restaurant. If you are looking to splurge on a meal, Maritana is the place you have to check out. 

Trophy Fish

2060 Central Ave., St. Pete, FL 33712

Trophy Fish is the perfect spot if you’re looking for an afternoon or evening cocktail. This nautically inspired outpost offers freshly caught seafood, plus elevated cocktails and beers. With cocktails that come in pineapples and gorgeous glasses, you know you’re in for quite an experience. Check out the Salty Dawg, Fin and Tonic, or their famous Piña Colada. 

an artful plate of food at Wild Child in St. Pete

Wild Child in St. Pete is a popular spot with artfully presented dishes.

Wild Child

2710 Central Ave., St. Pete, FL 33712

Wild Child is a vibrant neighborhood bistro and cocktail bar located in the heart of Central Avenue. Expect international flavors in a fashionable setting. With a variety of seating areas, you can enjoy different atmospheres based on your preference. It will be hard to not order every starter on the menu, but if you must limit yourself, try the tuna tostadas and crispy Brussels sprouts. For a cocktail, we recommend the Lost Weekend, as you can make it your own by choosing your ideal liquor.

The exterior of the Saint Hotel in St. Pete Beach with palm trees, a lawn and pool

Stay at The Saint Hotel in St. Pete Beach, just a few minute's walk to award-winning sands.

Where to Stay

The Saint Hotel

7201 Sunset Way, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

The Saint Hotel is a boutique hotel that combines the laid-back barefoot ambiance of St. Pete Beach with the artistic nature of nearby St. Pete. Expect an individualized experience where you can relax and lose yourself in the ultimate seaside paradise. The hotel's aesthetic is inspired by nature and the coast. It also features a large pool with a hot tub, flamingo floats, complimentary towels and daily live music. In addition to the pool, there is an outdoor area to play cornhole or lounge on couches around a fire pit. And when you’re ready to grab a bite and/or grab some cocktails, you can head to 82 Degrees which is the hotel’s on-property restaurant. Check out lesha's video here

An exterior shot of the Don CeSar Hotel

Opened in 1928, The Don CeSar has been welcoming travelers for nearly a century. 

The Don CeSar

3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

One of the most iconic hotels in the U.S., the legendary Don CeSar has been a Florida landmark since 1928. Since then, the "Pink Palace" has welcomed sun-seekers, luxury travelers and some of America's most famous (and notorious) figures. Bask in the Florida sun at the all-new Beacon Pool Bar & Lookout perched above two heated outdoor pools. Enjoy fine food and drinks at The Lobby Bar and several restaurants. Transform yourself in 11,000 square feet of seaside bliss at Spa Oceana, or play in the sugary St. Pete Beach backyard. 

JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

The "Together on the Gulf" package is perfect for a girl's trip of up to 10 people. Book a trip to JW Marriott Clearwater Beach and stay in a 3-bedroom suite; stocked bar and snacks, spa and restaurant credits, and pool daybed. A great option for a bachelorette and has everything you need right on the Gulf Coast! 

magenta and light pink zinnia flowers and two palm trees accent the large pink historic hotel the Vinoy Renaissance

Visitors have enjoy fine accommodations and warm hospitality at The Vinoy since the 1925.

The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

450 7th Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

This historic 1925 resort and golf club contains all the luxury that you’ll find in a Marriott Renaissance hotel. With views of Tampa Bay, a gorgeous tea garden, and a variety of room types, you’ll find yourself relaxed and feeling pampered with each night of your stay. A stay at the Vinoy is great for those who want to be able to walk to downtown St. Pete. You'll find easy access to many places downtown including the St. Pete Pier.


 

Dive Deeper

For more recommendations on what to do on your girlfriends getaway, you can visit Iesha’s recap post, Jessica’s vlog, and blog