Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

One of the more unique Pinellas preserves features a narrated tram tour. And thus, Boyd Hill is an excellent option for anyone who prefers to limit the hiking. During your tour, you will see lots of wildlife (armadillo, gopher tortoise, gators, lots of exotic birds). If you are up for breaking a sweat, the trails here really are unique, considering that they pass through a diverse range of habitat. Highlights include quiet views of Lake Maggiore and sand scrub, one of the most endangered habitats in the state (only 2% remain).

Baby gator at Boyd Hill Nature preserve in St. Petersburg, Florida
So cool to see a rare baby gator in the wild!
Gopher tortoise Boyd Hill Park
Can’t miss the many gopher tortoise sightings on the trails
Nature trail at Boyd Hill Preserve in St. Petersburg, Florida

Weedon Island Preserve

The best preserve in St. Petersburg to fully escape the tourist crowds is definitely Weedon Island. Despite the immense beauty and ample wildlife sightings, this place remains attractive isolated. Get in a light workout on the 2 mile loop trail, enjoy the sights and sounds of isolated Florida nature, birdwatch, and keep your eyes peeled for armadillos, turtles, and gators. And be sure to climb the 45 foot observation tower for an amazing view of the Bay!

Armadillo sighting at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg, Florida
You will likely run into an armadillo or 2!
Birdwatching at Weedon Island in St. Pete, Florida
I love looking out for exotic birds here!
Scenic views of the Bay at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg, Florida

Slyce Madeira Beach

For the best pizza near the beach, head over to Slyce (with locations in Madeira & Indian Rocks Beach). The Madeira location features a wonderful patio with spectacular views of the water. The pizza here is really terrific, definitely the best near the beach. They offer a number of specialty options or you can customize your own. Meatball Mushroom, Margarita, Roasted Veggie, Greek, Hawaiian, and Chicago Deep Dish are a few popular choices. Their garlic knots are also amazing, and so is the Greek salad!

Delicious cheese pizza at Slyce in Madeira Beach, Florida

Rumfish Grill

If you love aquariums, you will definitely want to put a dining experience at Guy Harvey’s Rumfish Grill on your to-do list. You may have already seen this restaurant featured on Animal Planet’s Tanked TV series. To be honest, I still watch reruns of this show all the time. These guys are so talented and I love to watch them work. This was one of the first places I visited after moving to the Bay. At this tourist favorite, you can dine on fresh seafood while taking in the sights of a massive 33,500 gallon aquarium. Along with tropical fish, eels and stingrays are also to be found. The colorful tank takes up the entire wall of the dining room, so every guest has a decent enough view.

Aquarium at Rumfish Grill, featured on Animal Planet tv series Tanked

Key Lime pie

This delicious American pie is the official state pie of Florida. A trip to Florida would not be possible without indulging in this trademark Sunshine state dessert. Thankfully, many restaurants and cafes throughout Pinellas serve this sweet treat. If you will be staying near the beach area, Guppy’s in Indian Rocks serves an amazing slice of pie. They are also known for their many seafood entrees, and beautiful breezy covered patio.

Key lime pie at Guppy's on the Beach on Florida's Gulf Coast