St. Pete Beach is one of Florida's most beloved beach destinations — a 7-mile barrier island with consistently warm Gulf waters, beautiful white sand, and the legendary Don CeSar hotel (the "Pink Palace") standing watch over the beachfront since 1928. Here's everything you need to plan your visit.
The Don CeSar Hotel
The Don CeSar is Florida's most iconic beach hotel — a salmon-pink Mediterranean Revival palazzo built in 1928 that has hosted F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Franklin Roosevelt, and generations of Florida visitors. Even if you're not staying there, the hotel's Grand Lobby bar and Gulf-view restaurant are worth a visit for the architecture and atmosphere alone.
Pass-a-Grille
The southern tip of St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille is one of Florida's most charming historic beach communities — narrow streets lined with 1920s bungalows, the excellent Hurricane Restaurant, sunset views from Pass-a-Grille Channel, and relatively uncrowded beaches.
St. Pete Beach Boulevard (Gulf Blvd)
The main beach strip along Gulf Boulevard offers a classic Florida beach resort experience with a range of hotels, restaurants, and water sports operators. Less crowded than Clearwater Beach, with a slightly more local character.
Best Restaurants on St. Pete Beach
- Hurricane Restaurant — Pass-a-Grille institution, patio with Gulf views
- Undertow Beach Bar — Casual, fun, right on the sand
- Sea Critters Café — Waterfront seafood with Intracoastal views
- Shells — Fresh seafood, consistent quality, family-friendly
Activities
- Fort De Soto Park (5 minutes south) — One of Florida's finest state parks with multiple beaches
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals along Gulf Blvd
- Deep-sea fishing charters from Johns Pass Village
- John's Pass Village & Boardwalk (10 minutes) — Shopping and dining
Getting to St. Pete Beach
- From TPA Airport: 25-30 miles, 35-45 minutes, from $60
- From PIE Airport: 25-28 miles, 35-45 minutes, from $58
- From Downtown Tampa: 25-30 miles, 35-45 minutes, from $60