32. Madeira Beach

Madeira Beach on Florida's Gulf Coast

Madeira is a quiet little beach which tends to receive less tourist traffic than neighboring beaches like Clearwater and St. Pete. Take the opportunity to visit a beautiful Gulf Coast beach minus the crazy crowds! Here you will get to experience a similar spectacular setting, with the added bonus of being able to easily find your own spot to relax for the day. Bring with your own beach umbrella that you can use again and again as opposed to a pricey one time cabana rental. When you tire of the sun, be sure to take a walk over to John’s Boardwalk for food, fun, and shopping!

Tip: Head over to Slyce for amazing pizza and even better views!

Address: 12901 Gulf Ln Madeira Beach, FL 33708

33. Sawgrass Lake Park

Birdwatching at Sawgrass Lake Park in St. Petersburg, Florida

Sawgrass, a small shady park in St. Petersburg, is the perfect choice for early morning strolls. Lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of a gator or 2, especially during the winter season. A mile long walk along a boardwalk leads you to an observation tower offering great views of the lake. The wooden boardwalks will take you across one of the largest maple swamps on the Gulf Coast. Morning visits are best due to the cooler, less humid conditions and the generally less crowded atmosphere. The Great Florida Birding Trail has included it on the list of the best places for bird watching in Florida.

Address: 7400 25th St N, St Petersburg, FL 33702

34. The Tropics Boat Tours Sunset Cruises

Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida - Tropics Boat Tours

Clearwater is most known for its’ sugar smooth sands and nightly entertainment along Pier 60. Besides the beach, the area is great for scenic cruises of all different sorts. When it is too hot to sunbathe, a breezy cruise is always a great back up option. Dolphin, sunset, party, and themed cruises are amongst those available. Tropics Cruise lines offer an excellent affordable sunset cruise, which is perfect for date night. Pretty sunset views, great views of the city, a lively atmosphere, and the occasional dolphin sighting place this cruise near the top of any tourist’s to do list. Unfortunately, smoking is allowed outside.

Tip: This cruise is often available discounted on Groupon, so you might want to browse for deals before your trip.

Address: 25 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767

35. St. Pete Art Walk

St. Pete 2nd Saturday Art Walk

St. Petersburg is known for its’ abundance of art galleries, including the world renowned Dali Museum. On the second Saturday of every month, more than 40 galleries take part in the St. Pete Art Walk, opening their doors free to anyone interested in exploring the local culture. To get around the many different districts of the city, a comfortable, breezy open air trolley ride is available. An interesting alternative to the traditional date night.

Address: Visit the St. Pete Art Alliance website for a detailed map on participating galleries.

36. Brooker Creek Preserve

Brooker Creek Preseve in Tarpon Springs, Florida

Featuring quiet trails and ample wildlife viewing opportunities, this preserve is an excellent escape from the area’s traffic and congestion. Due to the abundance of tall shady trees, it’s the perfect park to visit year-round. Whether you feel like hiking, taking an easy jog, or enjoying some nature photography, a visit to Brooker Creek Preserve is sure to be a rejuvenating experience.

Address:  3940 Keystone Rd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34688

37. Fort De Soto Park

View of Fort De Soto beaches from an observation deck - St. Petersburg, Florida

Fort De Soto is an 1136 acre park on 5 interconnected islands. The diversity of plants, wildlife, and activities make it a top choice for weekend fun. The beaches here are often ranked amongst the best in the country. Beautiful white sand, soft waves, and a quiet setting place Fort De Soto’s beaches on many “best of” beach lists.

Aside from the beach, you will find a beautiful 6.5 mile recreation trail (great for biking – rentals are available), kayaking opportunities, a large dog park, camping sites, fishing piers, and picnic shelters. With wonderful beaches and so many fantastic activities, Fort De Soto is one of the top day trip destinations for locals and tourists alike.

Address: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, St Petersburg, FL 33715