Waterfront dining

You will find a number of beachy themed restaurants as well as waterfront dining options in Clearwater and surrounding beach towns. While these places are often overpriced, sometimes it’s fun to splurge on vacation a bit, foregoing quality food and value in favor of a fun ambiance/great view. Pictured below is the amazing waterfront deck of Columbia Sand Key. It’s no wonder it was rated one of America’s most scenic restaurants!

Gorgeous waterfront patio at Columbia Restaurant Sand Key

Waterfront dining options

Northern Pinellas County

Northern Pinellas County is most famous for being home to St. Petersburg, the second largest Bay area city after Tampa. Although the city is most famous for its’ access to white sand beaches, it is also an ideal destination for art lovers. The renowned Dali Museum and Chihuly Collection can both be enjoyed here. Additionally, the city hosts numerous art walks and festivals through the year. Nature more your style? St. Pete is home to incredible preserves, many of which are gator sighting hotspots!

Also in North Pinellas, you will find a number of fun tourist attractions in the Madeira/Treasure Island region. From waterfront dining, to beautiful beaches, to dolphin tours, there is a bit of fun for everyone here.

Pass-a-Grille beach in St. Petersburg, Florida

Pass-a-Grille beach

This quiet beach is known to be the place to go when you are seeking to avoid a rowdy ambiance. Nearby St. Pete Municipal Beach tends to be crowded all the time thanks to the many resorts and restaurants which line the coast. Pass-a-Grille, in comparison, offers a charming “Old Florida” style vibe. Surrounding the beach is historic Pass-A-Grille village, home to quaint shops and restaurants.

Relaxed day at Pass a Grille beach in St. Pete, Florida

Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum

Palm tree lovers will want to plan a quick pit stop at this beautiful park which houses palms from around the world. The small 2 acre park is home to more than 500 gorgeous palms. If this doesn’t say tropical, than nothing does. It will not take up your time, nor cost you a penny. Great add on activity before exploring St. Pete attractions.

Palm tree arboretum in St. Pete Beach, Florida

Florida Botanical Gardens

This free 182 acre botanical garden in Largo is a must see for any nature lover visiting the region. You will find more than a dozen maintained gardens, plus several miles of rustic nature trails. These trails feature increasingly rare sand and scrub hill habitat. Note: If you are in town during the month of December, they put on a pretty spectacular Christmas display featuring over a million LED lights.

Florida Botanical Garden at Christmas