INSIDER GUIDE
Your guide to the Gulf Coast
We know this stretch of coast. Here's what we'd tell a friend, from the best beach access to the spots that don't show up on TripAdvisor.
THE BEACHES
Where to spread out
Treasure Island Beach
Wide, sugar-white sand and a classic Florida-beach vibe, perfect for morning walks along the scenic trail, swimming, and sunset strolls. Easy public access with nearby beach facilities (restrooms, snack bar, volleyball, playground at the municipal beach area) and plenty of public parking across the island.
Caladesi Island
A true “leave-the-world-behind” beach day, pristine shoreline, calm nature trails, and Old Florida vibes. Access is by ferry or private boat, and the park is open 8 a.m. to sundown. Ferry runs from Honeymoon Island (schedules vary).
Sunset Beach & St Pete Beach
Sunset Beach (Treasure Island) is quieter and perfect for golden hour, with mostly small lots and limited street parking. St Pete Beach is livelier, with multiple public access points, restrooms/showers, boardwalks, and larger parking, easy for a full beach day.
ON THE WATER
Beyond the shoreline
Private Pontoon Tours & Watersports
Private pontoon tours on the Gulf, designed for families and friends who want something more personal than a crowded party boat. A licensed captain takes you out to dolphin-watch, island-hop (Caladesi and Honeymoon Island), and anchor wherever the day takes you. Bring your own snacks, drinks, and playlist. The experience adapts to you, not the other way around. This is the kind of afternoon kids talk about for years.
Fishing Charters
USCG licensed and federally permitted fishing charters operating out of Clearwater, Dunedin, and surrounding areas. Whether you've never held a rod or you know exactly what you're after, the captains here know these waters inside out. Inshore, nearshore, offshore, different experiences for different kinds of trips. A genuinely memorable half or full day for anyone in the family who wants something active and a little different from beach time.
ON THE LAND
Beyond the beach
John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk
Not just a beach, a whole waterfront boardwalk. Fishing charters, dolphin tours, seafood restaurants, and shops all in one strip. Great for a half-day outing when the family wants more than just sand. Kids love the pelicans on the dock.
Downtown St Petersburg
About 30 minutes from Clearwater, St. Petersburg is one of the best day trips you can do from the Gulf Coast. A real downtown with great food, waterfront parks, world-class art, and a neighborhood feel that surprises most first-time visitors.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Step into classic “Old Florida” with live mermaid shows in an underwater theater, crystal-clear spring water, and a river boat cruise, plus Buccaneer Bay for swimming and (seasonally scheduled) slides/lazy river.
Golfing
Tee off year-round in the St. Pete–Clearwater area, with a great mix of public, semi-private, and resort courses, from classic Florida layouts to tour-level challenges.