Trip Report: Just Let Go in St. Pete Beach, Florida

Welcome to St. Pete Beach, where the motto “just let go” is more than just a tagline — it’s a way of life. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway or even a spring break adventure, this Gulf Coast gem offers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. As someone who loves making the most of every trip, I’m here to tell you why St. Pete Beach should be your next destination.

TradeWinds Island Resort – A world of adventure and relaxation

The highlight of my trip? Without a doubt, TradeWinds Island Resort. This resort truly has it all, and with their app to guide you through everything they offer, it’s easy to dive into the adventure or kick back and relax. Whether you’re lounging in a cabana on the beach or zooming down their three-story waterslide, the resort makes it impossible not to have fun.

One of my favorite features was their zip line, which lets you soar right over the beach for incredible views of the Gulf. There’s even an in-ocean waterpark that floats just offshore, giving both kids and adults a unique way to splash around. And when it comes to dining, you’re spoiled for choice. I couldn’t get enough of the fried fresh fish at The Flying Bridge — it was so good, I had to go back for more.

At TradeWinds, there’s also no shortage of nightlife and entertainment. The resort features numerous bars right on the property, where you can unwind with a drink in hand while listening to live music. They even host pool parties and contests — fun for both adults and children. I watched my kids dive into games while I enjoyed the lively atmosphere from the poolside bar.

In the evenings, we walked over to Rumfish Beach Resort to enjoy a bonfire on the beach. We roasted s’mores under the stars while a live band played in the background — it was a perfect way to wind down after a day full of activities. We also dined at Rumfish Grill, the resort’s restaurant that features a breathtaking room-sized aquarium. Watching vibrant marine life while eating dinner is something I’ll never forget — it’s no wonder the aquarium was featured on Tanked.

Beachcomber Resort – The best of live entertainment

After a few nights at Tradewinds, we moved over to Beachcomber Resort, and it was just as fantastic. The Beachcomber is known for its lively courtyard, and they host some of the best-rated live entertainment on the beach. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with live music playing almost every night. Their large deck is a great place to relax with a drink from the bar while enjoying the music. It’s the kind of place where the fun never stops, whether you’re looking for a quiet moment by the beach or a lively night out.

The resort also offers cabanas right on the beach, so no matter where you are, the ocean is always just steps away. It was a great spot to kick back, and the easy access to the beach made it perfect for leisurely afternoons spent soaking up the sun.

The Don CeSar – The iconic pink palace

We couldn’t leave St. Pete Beach without a stop at The Don CeSar, known as “the pink palace.” This iconic hotel is a true landmark, towering over the shoreline with its grand, pastel-pink exterior. It’s the epitome of luxury, and stepping inside feels like being transported to another era of elegance and opulence. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth a visit to take in the stunning architecture and grab a drink at one of their stylish bars. It’s no surprise that this place has hosted celebrities and VIPs for decades — it’s as glamorous as it gets.

Pirates, dolphins and jet skis – Adventure awaits

For those who love a bit of action, we took a pirate-themed boat ride out to Shell Key Island and Egmont Key. The kids loved playing pirates while we watched dolphins swim alongside the boat — it’s one of those magical Florida moments you have to experience.

The adventure didn’t stop there. The next day, we headed to Madera Beach to rent jet skis at Woody’s. The excitement kicked in right away as dolphins appeared in the open water, swimming right next to our jet skis — it was an incredible start to the day. After jet-skiing, we made our way to Sculley’s for a seaside meal. Sitting by the water with great food and a view of the boardwalk was the perfect way to wrap up an action-packed day.

Eat, drink and chill – Dining highlights

St. Pete Beach has a fantastic food scene that caters to every taste. One day, we walked from Tradewinds to Boulevard Burgers, where we enjoyed some of the best burgers in town. They’ve got drink specials (a must for any burger spot!), and kids eat free on certain days, making it a perfect family spot. Rick’s Reef is another great option if you’re looking for something laid-back and casual.

And the best part? Many of the restaurants and ice cream spots are within walking distance. We made multiple stops at Larry’s Ice Cream and Ice & Cream Creamery, both of which are local favorites. After a day in the sun, there’s nothing better than cooling off with some of the creamiest ice cream around.

And getting around is a breeze, thanks to the low-cost or free transportation options available throughout the area. Whether you’re hopping between hotels or exploring the local bars and restaurants, you’ll never have to worry about parking or navigating traffic.

Exploring beyond the beach — Art, markets and more

St. Pete Beach isn’t just about sun and surf. It’s also a hub for art and culture, with vibrant murals scattered throughout the town. We took some time to explore Corey Ave, a charming area filled with local markets and unique shops, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs or just strolling around to soak in the atmosphere.

Nearby attractions – Tampa and beyond

For those who want even more adventure, Tampa is just a short drive away. We spent a day at Busch Gardens, where the roller coasters are nothing short of thrilling, and Adventure Island, Tampa’s premier water park with slides and wave pools for all ages. Families will also love the Tampa Zoo, which offers plenty of opportunities to see animals up close.

We couldn’t miss the chance to visit the Clearwater Aquarium, home to rescued marine animals, including Winter the Dolphin, famous from the Dolphin Tale movies. And for art lovers, the Dali Museum in nearby St. Petersburg is a must-see, with an impressive collection of Salvador Dali’s surreal works.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re here to unwind on the beach, seek out adventure or immerse yourself in the local art scene, St. Pete Beach truly has it all. From the endless activities at Tradewinds Island Resort to jet skiing alongside dolphins and savoring incredible food, this destination promises a vacation you won’t soon forget. With Beachcomber’s live entertainment, Don CeSar’s iconic luxury and numerous beachfront bars and nightlife, St. Pete Beach is the perfect getaway for any traveler. As someone who loves to travel and make the most of every experience, trust me when I say, this is a trip you’ll be talking about for years to come.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Florida. In need of further inspiration? Check out Kelsey Coons’s guide, Live Like a Local in Marco Island, Florida.