Updated: January 01, 2026
Looking for the best things to do in St. Pete Beach? This guide covers eight must-visit spots including the vibrant Saturday Morning Market, historic Sunken Gardens, scenic Sand Key Park, and the unique Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Get insider tips on beaches, dining, and local attractions that make this coastal gem special.
St. Pete Beach is brimming with vibrant attractions and hidden gems that cater to all interests. From bustling markets and historical sites to serene parks and lively piers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Ideal for foodies, history buffs, nature lovers, or those simply seeking a relaxing day by the sea, this guide highlights the top things you can't miss in this charming coastal town. Dive in and discover what makes St. Pete Beach an unforgettable destination.
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6. Egmont Key
Saturday Morning Market
The Saturday Morning Market in downtown St. Petersburg is a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Held every Saturday from October to May, this market features over 170 vendors offering a wide array of products, including fresh produce, artisanal goods, prepared foods, and unique crafts.
When I wandered through the stalls, I encountered a diverse selection of items ranging from organic vegetables and homemade jams to handcrafted jewelry and local artwork.
One of the highlights of the market is its food scene. You can enjoy a variety of cuisines, from classic American barbecue to authentic Greek, Mexican, and Thai dishes. Live music adds a festive atmosphere, with performances by local bands that span genres like jazz, blues, and folk.
This market also serves as a social hub, where people gather to enjoy the morning, sip coffee, and catch up with friends. It supports local agriculture and small businesses, making it a key component of the community's economic and social fabric.
Located in downtown St. Petersburg at Al Lang Stadium parking lot (October-May) and Williams Park (June-September), the market is easily accessible and offers plenty of nearby parking. It's an excellent opportunity to engage with the community, support local entrepreneurs, and enjoy the beautiful weather of St. Petersburg. Whether you're looking for fresh ingredients, a unique gift, or just a pleasant way to spend a Saturday morning, the market has something to offer everyone.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater Marine Aquarium, located just north of St Pete Beach, is a unique marine life rescue center focused on the rehabilitation and release of marine animals. It gained fame as the former home of Winter, the dolphin who starred in the movie "Dolphin Tale." Winter's story of survival after losing her tail and swimming with a prosthetic tail inspired millions around the world before her passing in November 2021. The aquarium continues its mission of rescuing and rehabilitating marine animals.
The aquarium offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as behind-the-scenes tours where visitors can see how the center cares for its residents. Guests can also participate in educational presentations about marine life conservation, helping to raise awareness about the challenges these creatures face in the wild.
One of the most engaging aspects of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Visitors can witness dolphin and otter training sessions, or even sign up for a boat tour that explores local marine habitats, providing a direct view of conservation efforts in action.
For those looking to delve deeper, the aquarium offers a range of animal encounter programs. These include feeding stingrays, meeting rescued sea turtles, or enjoying up-close experiences with dolphins. Each encounter is designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of marine life.
Visiting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is not just about entertainment; it's an opportunity to support an organization that plays a critical role in wildlife rescue and environmental education.
St. Pete Pier
St Pete Pier, a standout attraction in St Pete Beach, Florida, offers a dynamic blend of recreational activities, dining options, and breathtaking views of Tampa Bay. The pier extends over the water, providing visitors with a picturesque setting for walking, fishing, and enjoying the sunset. It features an array of amenities including playgrounds, picnic areas, and a beach, making it an ideal spot for families.
One of the pier's main highlights is the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, where guests can learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts through interactive exhibits. This center emphasizes the importance of protecting Florida's marine environments and provides an educational experience for all ages.
Dining at the pier is a culinary adventure with multiple restaurants and bars that serve a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers. Each establishment boasts scenic views, allowing diners to relax and soak in the surroundings while enjoying their meal.
Art lovers will appreciate the public art installations scattered throughout the pier, which add a cultural touch to the vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, the pier regularly hosts events such as live music performances and outdoor movies, offering entertainment for both locals and tourists alike.
With its modern design and comprehensive facilities, St Pete Pier is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the lively spirit and natural beauty of St Pete Beach.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, a short drive from St. Pete Beach, is famed for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The beach stretches for miles, and my kids and I always have plenty of space for building sandcastles, volleyball, or simply soaking up the Florida sun whenever we visit. The gentle surf is ideal for swimming, and lifeguards are on duty to ensure safety.
The area is well-equipped for visitors, with beachfront restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and other local delicacies. Shops along the beachfront offer everything from souvenirs to beach gear. For those looking to explore the water, paddleboard and kayak rentals are available, providing a unique way to experience the Gulf Coast's serene beauty.
Pier 60 is a focal point of Clearwater Beach and hosts a daily festival featuring street performers, musicians, and local artisans. This event, which celebrates the stunning sunsets, is a perfect way to end a day at the beach. Fishing enthusiasts can also take advantage of the pier's ample fishing opportunities.
For a more relaxed experience, the Beach Walk is a paved promenade that offers scenic views of the Gulf and easy access to the beach's amenities. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a brisk morning jog, lined with palm trees and benches for resting and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Sand Key Park
Sand Key Park, located on Sand Key Island just south of Clearwater Beach, is a scenic haven for both nature enthusiasts and beachgoers. This beautiful park is a part of the barrier island and offers a wide, pristine beach along with a park that features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a dog park. The clear, shallow waters make it a favorite spot for swimmers, snorkelers, and families with children.
Visitors to Sand Key Park can explore its well-maintained boardwalks that meander through natural vegetation, providing glimpses of local wildlife, including sea turtles, which nest on the beach during the summer months. Bird-watchers are also in for a treat, as the park is a key stopover for various migratory birds.
For those who enjoy more active pursuits, there are volleyball courts and a kayak rental facility available, offering another way to enjoy the water. The park is also equipped with cabanas that can be rented for a day, providing a perfect spot for a beach day camp.
With its combination of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and protected wildlife areas, Sand Key Park offers a diverse range of activities and sights that appeal to all ages, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to St Pete Beach.
Egmont Key
Egmont Key, located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, accessible only by boat. This secluded island offers a peaceful escape with its picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Visitors can explore the remnants of Fort Dade, a ghost town with structures still standing, providing a glimpse into the island's past as a military base during the Spanish-American War.
The island also serves as a wildlife refuge, home to a variety of native species, including the threatened gopher tortoise and numerous birds that can be spotted throughout the year. Nature trails wind through the lush landscape, offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife photography.
Additionally, the Egmont Key Lighthouse, operational since 1858, remains a focal point of the island. Although not open for tours, it is an iconic structure that adds to the historic charm of the island.
Conservation efforts are evident as the island faces erosion and other ecological challenges, aiming to preserve its natural and historical resources. This makes visiting the island not only a leisurely day out but also a chance to learn about and contribute to environmental preservation efforts.
For a day of adventure, history, and natural beauty, Egmont Key is a fascinating destination off the coast of St. Pete Beach.
Mandarin Hide
Mandarin Hide stands out as a vibrant spot in the heart of St. Pete Beach, known for its Prohibition-era ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails. The interior evokes a speakeasy vibe, with dim lighting, plush seating, and vintage decor, making it a popular choice for those seeking a sophisticated night out. The bar's mixologists are celebrated for their creativity, mixing up a range of concoctions from classic drinks to innovative new blends that feature fresh, local ingredients.
A highlight of the Mandarin Hide experience is its cocktail menu, which changes seasonally to reflect the freshest flavors. Patrons can enjoy everything from a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned to unique signature drinks that can't be found elsewhere. Additionally, the bar hosts live jazz nights, adding to the allure with smooth tunes that complement the retro atmosphere.
For visitors looking to unwind after a day at the beach or before a night on the town, Mandarin Hide offers a cozy yet elegant setting. The bar also caters to groups and events, providing a memorable backdrop for everything from casual meet-ups to special celebrations. As a popular local hangout, it's advisable to arrive early or book in advance, especially on weekends when the place fills up quickly.
Sunken Gardens
Sunken Gardens, a historic botanical paradise in St. Petersburg offers a tranquil escape with over a century of horticultural history. This four-acre garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. As you wander through the winding paths, you'll encounter cascading waterfalls, vibrant flower beds, and lush foliage that create a serene atmosphere.
The gardens are famous for their exotic plants, including a collection of over 500 species of tropical and subtropical flora. Visitors can admire towering palms, vivid orchids, and even some rare plants not commonly found in the area. The picturesque scenery provides a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Sunken Gardens also features educational programs that cater to all ages, focusing on the importance of conservation and the environment. These programs highlight sustainable gardening techniques and the role of native plants in local ecosystems.
For those looking for a more interactive experience, the gardens offer guided tours that delve into the history of the site and its ecological contributions. Additionally, the garden hosts special events throughout the year, such as yoga sessions and horticultural workshops, enhancing the visitor experience with a touch of community engagement.
Overall, Sunken Gardens stands as a living museum, preserving the beauty and diversity of Florida's botanical heritage while providing an enjoyable and informative outing for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Combine the wonders of St. Pete Beach with the unmatched comfort and convenience of Resort Realty's curated vacation condos, and you have all the ingredients for a vacation that exceeds every expectation. Choosing to stay with us at Resort Rentals means choosing over 300 vacation rental options that epitomize beachfront living right on St. Pete Beach, Florida.
Why settle for a hotel room when you can savor the privacy and space of a premier condo, home, or villa, each one fully equipped to ensure your stay is seamless and satisfying? From beachfront to bayfront, each property offers a unique vista, so whether you yearn for the rhythmic lull of the waves or a serene bay view, you'll find your perfect retreat.
In addition to the picturesque settings, our proximity to vibrant local attractions, such as Egmont Key and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, means you're never far from the action. Yet, with amenities like pools, jacuzzies, and tennis courts available at properties like Lands End in Treasure Island, the appeal of staying in might rival the call of adventure.
Personalize your stay with a range of choices from pet-friendly accommodations to the newly listed gems that align with your vacation desires. Immerse in the charm of St. Pete Beach with Resort Realty, and let us make every moment of your stay as thrilling or tranquil as you wish. With our best price guarantee for your winter escape or romantic interlude, your dream beach vacation is just a booking away—experience it all with us at Resort Realty.
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