5 Best Things to Do in St. Pete Beach (FL)

St. Pete Beach is a coastal city in Florida’s Pinellas County that lies along the narrow stretch of land between Boca Ciega Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

The city was officially incorporated in 1957, and at the time of the last census had a population of just less than 10,000 residents.

St. Pete Beach is located on the central portion of Florida’s Gulf Coast and is home to some of the state’s most scenic beaches. It’s a popular destination for anglers, golfers, and sun-seekers from all over the country.

Below are 5 things to do in and around St. Pete Beach, Florida.

1. Gulf Beaches Historical Museum

There aren’t many places in the country where quaint little historical museums reside on high-dollar beachfront property, but the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum is one such attraction.

Located in the historic Pass-a-Grille District, it is a treasure trove of information and historical exhibits, making it the perfect place for first-time visitors to check-out before heading out on their own.

The museum’s exhibits include photographs, newspapers, historical artifacts, and first-hand accounts of those who settled in the area in eras past. It’s located on 10th Avenue and is staffed by knowledgeable and enthusiastic local docents, who are valuable community resources in their own right.

2. Shell Key Preserve

Shell Key Preserve is comprised of nearly 1,900 acres of land and sea along the barrier islands between the bay and Gulf, and it’s only accessible by boat.

There are a number of ferry options between the mainland and key, and the journey only takes about 10 minutes.

Ferry services depart three times daily, and for those who’d like to take in a magnificent Florida sunset from the sea, there are sunset cruises offered as well, but only on certain days of the week.

The preserve is popular with amateur photographers and shell collectors, and is an undeveloped area that’s a rookery for several bird species too.

3. St. Pete Beach

Rumor has it that St. Pete Beach is the longest stretch of pristine and undeveloped beach in Pinellas County; it’s a favorite destination for beach-lovers, bodyboarders, and surfers.

St. Pete Beach is located along Gulf Boulevard and is conveniently close to many hotels that are popular with tourists. Families with kids generally appreciate its relatively warm and often wave-free surf.

The beach’s city location also gives visitors access to a variety of dining and shopping options. Many guests choose to leave for a few hours in the early afternoon when the sun gets unbearably hot, and return in the late afternoon.

You should experience a dolphin-watching tour on a dolphin cruise in St Pete Beach, FL. People of all age groups can enjoy this activity.

4. Caddy’s on the Beach

Caddy’s on the Beach is located on West Gulf Boulevard just north of St. Pete Beach in Treasure Island. It’s one of the area’s most popular restaurants and is noted for its scenic beachside location and tasty food.

Many consider it the Gulf coast’s most iconic beach bar and grill, and it includes both indoor and outdoor seating.

The indoor portion is air-conditioned, and they often host live entertainment in the evenings when the temps are perfect and gentle breezes are blowing in from the sea.

Their menu includes lots of traditional favorites like seafood and burgers. Though it’s not the cheapest dining option in town, many guests consider it one of the most memorable.

5. The Dali Museum

The Dali Museum in downtown St. Petersburg is one of the country’s most complete repositories of artwork created by the world-famous Spanish artist Salvador Dali.

Dali’s works have been described as surreal and psychedelic, and though he’s most well-known for his paintings, he dabbled in other artistic mediums as well; many of them are on display at the museum.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts children’s activities, guest speakers, temporary exhibits and films relating to the artist’s life and work, as well as those of other artists.

There is a gift shop and café on-site too, and the museum has numerous pieces by other well-known artists as well.