Beaches in St Petersburg, Florida

Location:

Clearwater Beach, St. Petersburg–Clearwater area, Florida

Recommended For:

Beach enthusiasts, families, couples, photographers, and anyone looking for one of the most iconic beach experiences in the United States.

What we Love:

The famously clear water, soft white sand, and vibrant waterfront filled with dining, shopping, and entertainment—all just steps from the shoreline.

• Visit Clearwater Beach, a world-famous coastal destination consistently ranked among the best beaches in Florida and across the United States.
• Swim in shimmering, clear waters that give the beach its name—perfect for cooling off or simply wading along the gentle surf.
• Sink your feet into powdery white sand that stays cool even under the Florida sun, making it ideal for long walks and beach lounging.
• Explore the Beach Walk promenade, home to high-quality restaurants, boutiques, souvenir shops, and buzzing nightlife spots.

Cost:

Public beach access is free. Parking is metered or in paid lots; food and shopping vary by location.

Best time to visit:

March through May for ideal weather and fewer crowds than peak summer. Sunsets are spectacular year-round.

Local tips:

Arrive early to find parking and claim your spot on the sand. Don’t miss Pier 60’s nightly sunset celebration featuring local vendors and street performers.

Distance:

About 30 minutes from downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa International Airport by car.

How to Get to Clearwater Beach:

Take FL-60 west toward Clearwater and cross the causeway to reach the beachfront. Once there, use the Beach Walk or local trolleys to get around easily.

Location:

St. Pete Beach, St. Petersburg–Clearwater area, Florida

Recommended For:

Families, surfers, paddleboarders, beach lovers, and travelers looking for a classic Florida beach day with easy access to city amenities.

What we Love:

The long stretch of shoreline perfect for water activities, the laid-back coastal energy, and the convenience of being close to everything from hotels to beach bars.

• Visit St. Pete Beach, the main beachfront of the city and a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.
• Enjoy several miles of sandy shoreline ideal for surfing, swimming, paddleboarding, and soaking in the Florida sun.
• Discover why St. Pete Beach has been ranked as one of the best beaches in the U.S. by top vacation experts and travel outlets.
• Relax with access to nearby hotels, restaurants, bars, and shopping—everything you need for a full day of beachfront fun is just steps away.

Cost:

Public beach access is free. Paid parking available; food, drink, and rentals vary by location.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Sunsets are stunning year-round and best viewed from the beach or nearby rooftop bars.

Local tips:

Check out Upham Beach for a quieter stretch, or head to Pass-a-Grille Beach at the southern end for a more laid-back, historic vibe.

Distance:

About 20 minutes by car from downtown St. Petersburg and 40 minutes from Tampa International Airport.

How to Get to St. Pete Beach:

Take I-275 S to the Pinellas Bayway, then head west to Gulf Boulevard. Parking is available near beach access points along the main strip.

Location:

Belleair Beach, Pinellas County, Florida

Recommended For:

Couples, solitude seekers, photographers, and anyone looking for a quiet, upscale alternative to Clearwater Beach.

What we Love:

The peaceful, uncrowded stretch of shoreline, elegant coastal homes, and uninterrupted Gulf views that create an almost private island atmosphere.

• Visit Belleair Beach, a serene coastal retreat stretching over 4,000 feet and offering the same beauty as Clearwater with far fewer crowds.
• Relax on soft, powdery sand with nothing but the sound of waves and seabirds—perfect for reading, sunbathing, or a peaceful walk.
• Admire panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy a front-row look at waterfront mansions lining the beach, lending an elegant and exclusive feel.
• Unplug in a location with no commercial amenities—bring your own picnic, chairs, and gear for a fully self-guided experience in nature.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Metered parking is available at designated access points; no rental services or concessions on-site.

Best time to visit:

Weekdays and early mornings for near-total solitude. Sunset hours are especially beautiful and peaceful.

Local tips:

Pack everything you need in advance—there are no restrooms, showers, or food vendors nearby. Respect the quiet nature of this residential beach when visiting.

Distance:

About 10 minutes by car from Clearwater Beach and 45 minutes from Tampa International Airport.

How to Get to Belleair Beach:

Take Gulf Boulevard south from Clearwater Beach. Look for small public beach access signs—parking is limited but usually available.

Family Beaches in St Petersburg:

Location:

Caladesi Island State Park, near St. Petersburg, Florida

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, boaters, kayakers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy an unspoiled island beach escape.

What we Love:

The powdery white sand, breathtaking scenery, and the peaceful atmosphere of a barrier island that’s only accessible by boat.

• Visit Caladesi Island, one of Florida’s most celebrated beaches and a true gem off the coast near St. Petersburg.
• Access the island by private boat, kayak, or ferry from Honeymoon Island—it's a short trip and well worth the effort.
• Relax on pristine sand surrounded by untouched nature, or fire up a grill and enjoy a barbecue with friends and family at one of the designated picnic areas.
• Take advantage of great amenities including concessions, showers, restrooms, changing areas, kayak rentals, and shaded picnic shelters.
• Explore nearby waterways by kayak—guided eco-tours are available and provide an unforgettable view of Florida’s coastal wilderness.

Cost:

Park entry is $6 per boat or $2 per kayak/canoe. Ferry service from Honeymoon Island is available for a separate fee.

Best time to visit:

Mornings and weekdays for peaceful beach time and easier access via ferry. Spring and fall offer the best weather and lighter crowds.

Local tips:

Bring your own cooler and towels. If kayaking, check tide conditions before you go. The ferry fills up fast during weekends, so arrive early.

Distance:

Approximately 45 minutes by car from downtown St. Petersburg to Honeymoon Island’s ferry dock.

How to Get to Caladesi Island:

Drive to Honeymoon Island State Park, then take the Caladesi Connection ferry or launch your own kayak or boat. The ferry operates daily, weather permitting.

Location:

Honeymoon Island State Park, near Dunedin, Florida (St. Petersburg area)

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, bird watchers, hikers, pet owners, kayakers, and anyone looking for a serene Gulf Coast beach experience.

What we Love:

The untouched natural setting, the excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, and the breezy, sun-soaked beaches perfect for a laid-back day outdoors.

• Visit Honeymoon Island, a 400-acre barrier island with nearly four miles of sandy shoreline and beautiful Gulf views.
• Explore one of the northernmost beaches in the St. Petersburg area, offering a quieter and more natural alternative to more crowded tourist beaches.
• Watch for a wide variety of bird species while hiking along the island’s scenic nature trails—great for wildlife photographers and outdoor explorers.
• Enjoy warm beach conditions with steady Gulf breezes to keep you cool even during the summer heat.
• Bring your dog—one of the park's beaches is dog-friendly, making it ideal for visitors traveling with pets.
• Try activities like kayaking, swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing in a beach chair and taking in the coastal views.

Cost:

$8 per vehicle (2–8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicles or motorcycles. Ferry to Caladesi Island available for an additional fee.

Best time to visit:

Fall and spring offer mild temperatures and excellent wildlife viewing. Weekday mornings are best for a quiet experience.

Local tips:

Bring water and sunscreen, and check park maps to find the dog beach and nature trails. Combine your trip with a ferry ride to nearby Caladesi Island for a full-day adventure.

Distance:

About 45 minutes by car from downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa International Airport.

How to Get to Honeymoon Island:

Drive west through Dunedin via Curlew Road and follow the causeway across St. Joseph Sound to the entrance of Honeymoon Island State Park.

Location:

North Redington Beach, near St. Petersburg, Florida

Recommended For:

Couples, families, solo travelers, sunset lovers, and anyone looking for a quiet Gulf Coast beach with beautiful views and space to relax.

What we Love:

The wide, peaceful shoreline with silky sand, stunning sunsets from the fishing pier, and the relaxing, uncrowded atmosphere perfect for a laid-back beach day.

• Visit North Redington Beach, located just north of St. Pete Beach and considered one of Florida’s top Gulf Coast gems.
• Relax on smooth white sand while enjoying the shimmering water—ideal for sunbathing, reading, or simply unwinding by the sea.
• Stroll along the large fishing pier, a perfect place to admire Gulf sunsets and catch a cool breeze in the evening.
• Enjoy peaceful beach activities with friends or family in a spacious setting that never feels crowded, even during peak season.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Paid parking available nearby; fishing pier may have a small entry fee.

Best time to visit:

Weekdays or mornings for maximum tranquility. Sunset is especially magical from the pier or shoreline.

Local tips:

Pack a picnic, bring your beach chair, and plan to stay through sunset. The area has fewer vendors, so come prepared with drinks and snacks.

Distance:

About 30–35 minutes from downtown St. Petersburg and 45–50 minutes from Tampa International Airport.

How to Get to North Redington Beach:

Take Gulf Boulevard north from St. Pete Beach or south from Clearwater Beach. Public access points are well marked along the coast.

Location:

Archibald Memorial Beach Park, 15100 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, Florida

Recommended For:

Families, locals, beach-goers seeking a laid-back experience, and anyone who enjoys classic beach vibes with local charm.

What we Love:

The nostalgic Snack Shack, the long stretch of soft sand, and the convenient beach access that makes this one of Madeira Beach’s most inviting hangouts.

• Visit Archibald Memorial Beach Park, tucked between two tall condo buildings on Gulf Boulevard, offering a peaceful, welcoming beach atmosphere.
• Access the beach via four wooden walkovers that lead over the dunes, giving way to beautifully maintained sand and shoreline.
• Stop by the log-cabin-style Snack Shack, a local favorite that’s been serving visitors since the 1970s and remains a nostalgic touchpoint for beachgoers.
• Relax on the clean, powdery sand with a beach chair or lounger while soaking in the gentle sounds of Gulf waves.
• Plan your visit early in the day—this beach is popular with locals and can become crowded on weekends.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Metered parking available nearby; restrooms, showers, and covered picnic areas on-site.

Best time to visit:

Early morning for cooler temps and smaller crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.

Local tips:

Grab breakfast or a snack at the Snack Shack before hitting the sand. Bring a beach umbrella—shade is limited, and this beach has wide-open views of the sky and surf.

Distance:

About 35 minutes by car from downtown St. Petersburg and 45–50 minutes from Tampa International Airport.

How to Get to Archibald Memorial Beach Park:

Take Gulf Boulevard through Madeira Beach and look for the beach park entrance at 15100 Gulf Blvd. Parking is available nearby and beach access is clearly marked.

Archibald Memorial Beach Park, 15100 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL 33708, Phone: 727-914-6902

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Location:

Maximo Park, 34th Street & Pinellas Point Drive, St. Petersburg, Florida

Recommended For:

Families, disc golfers, nature lovers, paddlers, picnickers, and those looking for a quiet beach alternative with a variety of outdoor activities.

What we Love:

The blend of rich history, shaded recreation areas, and unique amenities like an 18-hole disc golf course and water access—all within a peaceful, local park setting.

• Visit Maximo Park, once the private waterfront land of mid-19th-century homesteader Antonio Maximo Hernandez, now a beloved community recreation space in St. Petersburg.
• Explore the 70-acre park, which includes a small swimming beach, boat launches, and scenic hiking and biking trails.
• Relax beneath large shady trees or let kids enjoy the covered playground conveniently located beside the beach area.
• Use the park’s restrooms, picnic shelters, and brand-new 18-hole disc golf course—ideal for family outings or casual weekend fun.
• Fish right from the shore—Maximo Park is a great spot for anglers looking to cast a line in a calm, natural setting.

Cost:

Free public access. Picnic shelters may require advance reservation and rental fees.

Best time to visit:

Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Weekdays are especially quiet and family-friendly.

Local tips:

Bring your own disc golf gear, or just come for the trails and shoreline views. Pack a lunch and reserve a picnic shelter if visiting with a group.

Distance:

About 15 minutes by car from downtown St. Petersburg and 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport.

How to Get to Maximo Park:

Easily accessed via Interstate 275. Take the exit for Pinellas Point Drive and follow signs to the park entrance at the southern tip of St. Petersburg.

Maximo Park, 34th Street & Pinellas Point Drive, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727-893-7441

Location:

Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, Florida

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, beachgoers, bird watchers, kayakers, families, and campers looking for a scenic and activity-rich escape along the Gulf Coast.

What we Love:

The expansive natural beauty, the variety of habitats and wildlife, and the seamless mix of beach, trails, and family-friendly amenities—all within a sprawling coastal park.

• Visit Fort De Soto Park to enjoy stunning natural views and diverse habitats that attract birds, sea life, and nature lovers year-round.
• Explore over 1,000 acres spread across five interconnected islands, featuring mangroves, wetlands, and palm hammocks that support rich ecosystems.
• Relax on the park’s 3-mile-long beach, blanketed in soft, powder-white sand—ideal for sunbathing, shelling, and tranquil Gulf views.
• Take advantage of two large swim centers, nature and birding trails, an 800-foot boat launch, and two fishing piers for a full day of recreation.
• Enjoy on-site amenities including restrooms, shaded picnic shelters, and a family-friendly camping area that makes weekend stays easy and comfortable.

Cost:

Entry fee is $5 per vehicle. Additional fees apply for camping, boat launching, and kayak rentals.

Best time to visit:

Fall and spring for bird migration and mild weather. Mornings are best for nature walks and quieter beach access.

Local tips:

Bring a bike or rent one to explore the park’s paved trail system. Kayak rentals are also available for paddling through mangrove tunnels and shallow bays.

Distance:

About 25–30 minutes by car from downtown St. Petersburg and 45–50 minutes from Tampa International Airport.

How to Get to Fort De Soto Park:

Follow I-275 S to Pinellas Bayway South, then continue west through Tierra Verde. The park entrance is well-marked and leads directly to the main visitor areas and beaches.

Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL 33715, Phone: 727-582-2100