Top 5 Family-Friendly St Petersburg Florida Beaches
St. Petersburg is a peninsula. The entire town itself is basically a beach!
If we're being honest, almost all of these sandy shores are worth exploring. But for our travel friends with kids, here are at least five family-friendly St. Petersburg, Florida beaches!
Top 5 Family-Friendly St Petersburg Florida Beaches
When we travel, we like to find places with a bit of personality. We want spots that are colorful, inviting, and aren't too touristy.
We're not huge night owls, so a day by the beach in a relaxing environment is our ticket to a successful vacation.
But! You don't want it to be a place that's too boring. So, the following beaches are ones that are serene yet stimulating!
St. Pete Beach
The magical thing about St. Pete beach is that you're 90% likely to see a wedding. It's that kind of beach. Soft sand, stunning sunsets, and just enough people make it safe, sound, and soothing.
You can take a dip in the pools, eat lunch at Spinners Rooftop Grille (the famous spinning rooftop restaurant) and choose from the endless waterfront excursions at your disposal.
2. Clearwater Beach
Just across the bridge is Clearwater beach, one of the country's top beaches. It's a bit more touristy than St. Pete beach, so stay away during peak season (a.k.a spring break weeks).
Clearwater is by far the most fun of any of the beaches in St. Petersburg, Florida. There are so many options, so we're just gonna list them!
Choose from the following:
Marina Aquarium
Parasailing
Jet skiing
Clearwater Beach vs St Pete Beach
The vital difference between Clearwater beach vs. St. Pete Beach is that Clearwater is more of a tourist destination.
While St. Beach Beach is a popular wedding destination, Clearwater can get crowded both on the beach and on the boardwalk. St. Pete Beach is quieter (hence why it’s popular for weddings), with slightly fewer shops and restaurants to browse.
3. Fort De Soto
You can find Fort De Sota right off the beaten path. It's great for a quiet day in the waves or going for a short 7-mile bike ride (kidding! we wouldn't judge you if you turned around halfway). There's even a pirate-themed playground!
There's not much in the way of food and activities, so pack a family picnic and make the day your own.
Plus, it's one of the many dog-friendly beaches in St. Petersburg, Florida!
4. Gandy Beach
This is an excellent choice if your kids like outdoor water activities. Before you hit the surf, you can stop by Patrona coffee for some much-needed caffeinated beverages and a chance to relax on the docks.
From there, hop next door to Urban Kai to rent your choice of stand-up paddle boards or kayaks. All of it's right on the shore of Gandy Beach so that you can hoist off right away!
Keep in mind that Gandy Beach is small and very popular amongst fishers who like to set up shop in the mangroves.
When you've had enough sun, replenish yourself at the Getaway restaurant!
5. Treasure Island
Out of all the St. Petersburg, Florida beaches, this one is a must.
While you're basking in the sun on the uncrowded shore, your kids will have a ball on Treasure Island's inflatable slide! Like Clearwater Beach, a row of restaurants offer anything from seafood and Mexican cuisine to pizza and bar food.
Unlike Clearwater, however, the restaurants are mainly across the street. And there are way fewer people.
With boardwalk shopping, restaurants galore, and soft sandy beaches, Treasure Island is the perfect mix of leisure and luxury.