A Locals Travel Guide to Saint Petersburg, Florida

I visited Saint Pete Beach back in February and after just two days I knew I needed to come back for more. After a six-week extended Airbnb stay, I can safely say this place feels like home. I’m sitting here packing my bags to leave while simultaneously checking Zillow for houses— that’s how much I love it here. I’m almost certain I will be back here in the fall; whether it be for a full year’s lease or just another extended stay. I’m excited nonetheless.

Saint Pete Beach has that perfect mix of old-school energy and post-grad fun. There’s a taste of tourism mixed with local flare… it really is unlike anywhere else I’ve ever visited. After nearly two months of living like a local—quiet beach walks, weekend ragers, and far too many crabcakes I feel qualified enough to give you my full list of recommendations. So without further adieu, here’s where to eat, what to do, where to stay, and where to play in Saint Petersburg, Florida.

Come with sunscreen and come ready to party. There’s truly never a dull moment here!

Where To Stay 

Like I said I’ve been in a cute little Airbnb the last six weeks that we found online. It ended up being in the perfect location—just steps away from the beach and the Don Cesar, we’ve been centrally located to all the best beach bars, restaurants, and more. Within a five-minute drive, we can get to the grocery store, gas station, and marina. We couldn’t have asked for a better spot!

In addition to my Airbnb stay, I’ve also visited two of the dozen hotels in Saint Pete Beach. Of course, I recommend staying at the beach as that’s where all the fun happens! It’s far less commercialized here compared to some of the other beaches like Clearwater resulting in smaller hotels and fewer tourists.

The Postcard Inn 

(book here) 

The first time I visited Saint Pete I stayed at The Postcard Inn. This is one of the oldest hotels on the island and has been recently renovated. It attracts a younger crowd full of rowdy spring breakers, bach parties, and twenty-somethings looking for a good time. The rooms are clean and inviting with surfer vibes and bright blue doors.

They have a pool, beach access with cabanas and beach chairs available for rent, and volleyball courts. They also have a huge beach bar that is always hopping. No need to be a guest at PCI to party; this is definitely the most popular spot in town. They have a DJ every weekend so if you’re looking to day drink this is the spot.

The Don Cesar 

(book here) 

On the complete opposite spectrum of The Postcard Inn is The Don Cesar, the island’s chicest, luxury resort. This hotel acts as the “North Star” of Saint Pete Beach. Wherever you are you can almost always look up and see this huge pink “palace” and make your way back home. We had the opportunity to have a mini staycation here and it was so nice.

Beachside views, cozy rooms, and luxe details. The Don takes being pampered to another level—you’ll never want to leave.

Out back they have the most amazing greenery you’ve ever seen. There are two pools here, a beach bar with a full lunch/dinner menu, and an incredible beach access. The Don is positioned about a mile away from the rest of the hotels so you have a much quieter beach over here with fewer tourists and more privacy. They have their famous green beach cabanas and chairs all lined up. It’s the most high-end thing I’ve ever experienced!

Even if you’re not a guest, I highly suggest walking through the grounds and snapping a few pictures. Lots of incredible photo opps!

Transportation Within Saint Pete Beach

Saint Petersburg itself is actually very big and requires a car or Uber to get around. However, Saint Pete Beach is only a few miles long and therefore incredibly easy to navigate. It’s very walkable here so we end up walking a mile or two to almost everything—grocery stores, restaurants, bars, nail salons, etc.

However, if your feet need a break, you can always call Free Beach Ride. Free Beach Ride is a service that provides free local rides from Madeira Beach, Pass A Grille, Treasure Island, and Saint Pete Beach. Your ride is free but drivers work for tips so always be sure to have a few dollars on hand. Just call this number 727-776-7553, give them a pickup and drop off location (within this ten-mile radius), and they’ll come get you within 15 minutes.

It’s such a lifesaver, especially if you’re staying at the bars late as they do drive until 3:00 am.

Where To Beach 

Everyone is always asking me which beach to go to and unfortunately, my answer isn’t all that helpful. Our Airbnb has its own private access so I just cross the street and plop my butt down in the sand. We have no public parking near us which means we have a quiet, secluded stretch of beach where no tourists are. It’s been heaven for a beach lover like me. I go almost every single day whether it’s to swim, sit and read, or walk!

About a mile from us, the beach starts to get super packed due to the public parking lot of Saint Pete Beach and all of the hotels. If you’re wanting to visit the beach for the day I’d suggest going towards Pass A Grille instead— it’s much quieter this way with fewer tourists and you can park using Pay By Plate.

Where To Eat 

I’ve done my fair share of eating out during this six-week stay because I wouldn’t want to deprive you of recommendations…😉. There are endless options to choose from along Saint Pete Beach but here are a few of my favorites. Keep in mind Indian Rocks Beach, Treasure Island, and Clearwater are all just 5-20 miles away so you can easily leave this beach town and head to the next if you’re wanting a change of pace or more restaurants and bars to choose from!

Coconut Charlies 

Menu // Directions

Coconut Charlies is hands down my favorite restaurant in Saint Pete Beach. They have some of the best seafood I’ve ever had. I got their coconut-crusted shrimp and some of their blackened and wow, what a combination of flavors. Their calamari is incredibly fresh, brussel sprouts have so much flavor, and the fish is just to die for. They also have an amazing cocktail menu—I highly suggest anything that has muddled fruit in it!

Grand Hacienda 

Menu // Directions

If you’re craving Mexican, Grand Hacienda is the place to be! They have several different locations, one of them being right here on the beach strip. Their chips, queso, and guacamole are so good you could drink them. The Los Cabos nachos are loaded with calamari, fish, and shrimp and are my personal favorite. They have a huge drink menu with $10 margaritas that I cannot recommend enough. Just two of them and you’ll be ready to go for a rowdy night out—I suggest getting the frozen raspberry!

Oh, and if you’re craving something sweet their churros with ice cream are phenomenal.

Crabby Bills

Menu // Directions

Crabby Bills is one of the most well-known restaurants in town—it’s been family owned and operated since 1983 and has a homey feel to it. Their Bahama Mamas are the best (and strongest) in town. With gorgeous rooftop views of the beach, you’ll want to spend every happy hour sipping something here.

They’ve got a huge menu with tons of seafood. Their crab cake is my favorite but I’m also a big fan of their calamari. Shrimp alfredo and the grouper are very popular here as well. Can’t forget some of their pie! I suggest the chocolate crusted, it’s to die for… and that’s coming from someone who never chooses pie, haha.

Cabanas

Menu // Directions

I had the best crab cake of my life at Cabanas. This cute waterfront restaurant is located in Clearwater but it’s worth the hike. I had the highest seafood tacos ever here—packed full of fried fish and the most amazing pineapple slaw. You won’t want to skip out on their french fries either! They have a huge cocktail menu full of beach-town favorites under $10. However, their blueberry vodka lemonade was my personal favorite. Very light and fresh!

Tiki Docks

Menu // Directions

The food at Tiki Docks is so good. I had the best coconut rice in town mixed with chicken, pepper jack, bacon, and pineapple salsa. Plus, the yummiest french fries. Great views of the marina and a hugeee bar area that’s very lively. This restaurant gives family vacation vibes in the best way. Loved.

Sea Breeze

Menu // Directions

Sea Breeze is an adorable restaurant in Indian Rocks Beach and wow, talk about a view! This restaurant is on the marina side and the entirety of the back patio faces out over the water. One of the best views in town, by far! Their grouper is incredible. Jules got hers grilled over salad and I had mine coconut-crusted, topped with mango salsa, and a side of rice & beans. It’s probably the largest serving of fish you’ll ever have so I suggest sharing or preparing yourself to bring home leftovers, haha.

And the chocolate cake is absolutely worth the manager’s hype…

Spinners Rooftop

Menu // Directions

The chicest, most expensive, restaurant in town is by far Spinners Rooftop. This restaurant sits atop The Bellwether Hotel. The restaurant spins ever so slightly, rotating you in a full circle every hour. I can’t think of a better place to eat as the sun goes down as you get a 360 view of the city!

My favorites from here include the crab cake, blackened grouper, and bread basket. They also have a killer strawberry martini that’s on the “secret” menu. Unlike the other Saint Pete restaurants, this is somewhere I’d suggest wearing a dress too rather than your favorite cut-offs and tank. It’s definitely dressier and a great spot for a “special occasion” meal.

Buoys 

Menu // Directions

Buoys has one of the most unique menus I’ve ever seen! They’ve got a little bit of everything here—pork, fish, chicken, steak, you name it. Everything has an interesting twist of some sort, making this a must-hit spot if you’re looking for something different. They have great drinks and a beautiful view as this restaurant is tucked away ever so slightly. Definitely, the best service we’ve had here in Saint Pete!

Caddys

Menu // Directions

Caddys is another favorite spot of mine. This restaurant is on the marina side— because of this you don’t get much of a sunset here but it’s beautiful during the day. Definitely one of the best atmospheres in town. I’ve tried their California Burger which is so spicy you’ll be gulping down your Strawberry Daiquiri. So yummy though! I’m also a big fan of their grouper nuggets which are freshly caught and crisped to perfection.

They have several locations, some more lively than others. Regardless this is a must-hit in my opinion!

Ice & Cream 

Directions

If you’re craving a sweet treat you must stop in Icea & Cream. This is hands down my favorite ice cream spot in town. We go so often that the manager knows what we want before we’ve even walked through the door. They have a killer mint Oreo but their mermaid is my personal favorite. Ice cream runs a pretty steep price in town, which is strange because everything else is pretty cheap, but this place definitely gives you the most bang for your buck!

Larrys

Directions

Larry’s is another popular ice cream spot. We don’t come here as much but I will say they make a mean cookies & cream in a waffle cone! Really cute outdoor seating area here, so it’s a great spot to hang out in the evening time.

Where To Go Out 

Boy oh boy can you get rowdy here. Saint Petersburg and Tampa are growing rapidly, becoming huge hotspots for postgrad twenty-somethings. Plus with Ecakrd College, the University of Tampa, and the University of South Florida all right here, it’s a young scene with a lot of nightlife potential. We’ve done our fair share of bar hopping since we’ve been here and I’m here to share my favorites with you.

There are essentially three main spots we go out—along the beach, downtown Saint Pete, and Tampa. Each has its own flare and perks but all are a good time, I can promise you that!

On The Beach 

There’s nothing I love more than going out on the beach. Saint Pete Beach isn’t known for its wild nightlife but it’s a great place to go if you’re looking for something a little less crowded and a little more cill. I personally like to start the night off with a cheap $7 Rum Runner, live music, and being able to hear the person next to me talk.

Personal favorites are Jimmy Bs (live music every single day and a huge patio, we met lots of Kent State alumni here), Post Card Inn (rowdier during the day time but a great sunset can be watched here), Under Tow (right on the beach, great music), Toasted Monkey (older crowd but such good vibes), and the Drunken Clam (typical dive bar with dollar bills all over the walls). I also really like Hurricane’s which is in Pass A Grille—they have an amazing view of both the beach and the marina and drinks are so strong yet only $7.

Nothing better than getting to wear jean shorts and a bikini to the bar and walk home after a few drinks! We love going out on the beach.

Downtown Saint Pete 

Downtown Saint Pete is the place to be. It’s about a 15-minute Uber from Saint Pete Beach and it’s always crazy on the weekends. This is essentially a two-block strip that’s just bar after bar after club with a few drunken pizza shops mixed in. I will say, I enjoy it here far more when I’m with a group of people as there are fewer “sit and get to know someone” bars and more “knock back shots and dance” bars.

Favorites here include Welcome To The Farm (an amazing country-themed bar with live music), Mandrian Hyde (more sophisticated, great espresso martinis), Crafty Squirrel, and Cane & Barrel (great rooftop). It gets rowdy here and drinks are a bit pricier… don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Tampa

Tampa is a bit of a hike from the beach but still worth it every now and then. There are quite a few different pockets of places to go out but my personal favorite is SOHO. It’s a much younger crowd here, mostly college-aged kids and $6 Viodka pineapples but it’s a lot of fun. Lines get really long here as there aren’t too many bars but they move fast! It will be hot, sticky, and crammed when you go out so wear your bar shoes here.

I also really love having a few drinks along The Wharf! There are a lot of fun outdoor areas here and you get a view of the Bay. Southern Belles is another favorite country-themed bar that will make you feel like you’re in Nashville!

Must-Do While You’re Here 

There are a few random things we’ve been doing/places we’ve been going since staying here. Listing a few of those favorites here in case you’re looking for some additional recommendations. Enjoy!

Coffee at Grove 

I’ve been here for several weeks now and am working remotely which means lots of computer time. Grove Cafe is half coffee shop half surf shop and it’s so cute. It essentially looks like a Pinterest board threw up on it. Great vibes, amazing small bites, and an awesome spot to sit and crank out some work if you’re in the same boat. If not, don’t worry, still a must-visit for a cute picture and a new surf sticker!

Walk To Pass a Grille 

Pass A Grille is where you’ll end up if you walk in the opposite direction of all the action. This is known as the historical area of Saint Pete Beach. It attracts a quieter, classier crowd and is mostly home to snowbirds with beautifully manicured lawns and huge California-style houses. It has the marina on one side and the beach on the other so you’re constantly surrounded by beauty.

There are a handful of bars and restaurants in the center of town with a family-friendly feel. We love walking over here on a Sunday evening to hang out for a few hours. It’s super calm and always a good time! Highly suggest.

Shopping Along Corey Ave

Corey Ave is known as the “shopping” strip of Saint Pete Beach. It’s mostly older stores full of little knick-knacks, beach decor, and small souvenirs. A cute little spot to walk through if you’re wanting to kill some time in the afternoon.

Tampa Bay Rays Game 

Tropicana Stadium is just a fifteen-minute Uber away and a must if you’re visiting Saint Petersburg. The Rays are killing it this season so we had to catch a game while we were here! Definitely a different vibe here compared to other stadiums, since it is inside but still lots of fun.

You can almost always score nosebleeds for $15 so it’s the perfect mid-week activity to get you out of the house.

Farmers Market on Saturdays 

Every Saturday there is a farmers market in downtown Saint Petersburg and it’s huge. Like the biggest in the state! This is a fun, wholesome weekend activity and a great way to get out of the house. Jules loves coming here to buy fresh produce, flowers, and locally-made coffee.

Hot Girl Walk On The Beach 

Hot girl walking on the beach is a must. I go out every single morning and walk the beach and it’s quite literally my favorite thing to do! If you walk left about a mile you’ll get to Pass a Grille and if you go right about a mile you’ll get to PCI and all of the hotels. Nothing better than walking right along the water but if you’re craving something a little calmer, I suggest heading towards the bridge!

Brunch at Oxford Exchange / Hyde Park 

You’ve got to make it over to Tampa for a day! The Hyde Park area is so cute and very modern compared to Saint Pete. They’ve got tons of stores—Gorjana, Sephora, Lululemon, and other favorite chains. Plus there are tons of restaurants and bars mixed in. This is an incredible spot to meet people in their twenties; even on weeknights, there are a gazillion people out and about.

Of course, when you’re in the area you need to have lunch at Oxford Exchange. This huge restaurant has beautiful views, amazing views, and a bookstore too! I’ve seen this in so many Danielle Carolan vlogs that it was a must-see for me.

Buy Something Matching From Wings 

There is a Wings smack in the middle of Saint Pete Beach and our favorite thing to do when we’re hungover or have a guest in town is take them into Wings to buy tacky matching Saint Pete Beach tee shirts. We have more than I’d like to admit… a classic spot to buy your vacation souvenir and an ~initation~ of all of our visitors, haha.

What To Pack 

Not sure what to bring for your trip to Saint Pete Beach? I can promise you won’t need much besides a swimsuit but I’ll share a few things I ended up using far more than I thought. Keep in mind I’ve been here for a long time, not just a good time, haha.

• Lots of swimsuits: As I said, you can find me at the beach almost every single day. I brought at least thirty bathing suits here and have shockingly worn almost every single one. The more the merrier!
• Even more sunscreen: The sun is scorching here and even in the early morning you’ll want to have sunscreen on. I’ve never reapplied more sunscreen than I have living here but boy am I glad I brought ten bottles. We’ve finished almost every single one!
• Beach chair: If you’re staying at a hotel, most of them will have chairs you can rent for the day. I ended up bringing my own Tommy Bahama chair from home and I’m so glad I did. There is truly nothing worse than having to sit in a cheap, plastic chair from Wings, haha. If you’re driving down and have room, I recommend bringing one with you!
• Pool floats: We’re on the West Coast of Florida which means the waves are pretty minimal here. There’s almost no wind most days so the water is as flat as can be. We love taking inner tubes and other fun pool floats out into the water, just sitting there for days. I get all of mine from Funboy!
• Workout clothes: I’ve been walking the beach every single morning and while yes, you can obviously go in a swimsuit, I find that I workout a lot more effectively when I’m in a workout set and running sneakers. I have two pairs of Hokas and have officially become that girl that wears them on the beach, haha.
• Going out tops: The going out scene is super casual here, and very similar to your college town, I’m sure. I wish I brought more basic tanks/going-out tops as that’s what you wear almost every evening out. No need for all the fancy dresses and heels, leave them at home and bring an extra pair of flip-flops instead.
• Hats: I brought like 8 hats here with me and am leaving with 8 more. You can find me at all times of the day with a hat on my head. The humidity here is so intense that it’s not even worth bothering with hot tools. I stick to a slick back bun, ponytail, or baseball cap most days.

Phew, what a roundup! There is so much to see here I swear I could go on and on about things to do in Saint Petersburg. It’s been so amazing getting to slow down and live like a local these last six weeks. I cannot believe how fast the time has flown and am *seriously* already looking at houses to come back in the fall more permanently.

We’ll see what happens; you never know where I’ll end up next!

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