Summary
Introduction
The towns of Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg in the Tampa Metropolitan Area offer miles of pristine sand, excellent boating opportunities, warm weather, and a thriving cultural scene—all within a reasonable price range. Consequently, it’s no surprise that millions of tourists flock to this region each year. The Clearwater/St. Pete area is especially appealing for families, not only due to its kid-friendly attractions but also because Orlando’s famous theme parks are merely a two-hour drive away.
This Clearwater/St. Pete peninsula features 26 communities and 35 miles of picturesque shoreline, nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. The communities vary significantly, showcasing everything from laid-back beach neighborhoods to vibrant cosmopolitan areas, with diverse cultures ranging from Scottish in Dunedin to Greek in Tarpon Springs.
How to Get There
There are two major airports in the area: St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport and Tampa International Airport. Most travelers fly into the Tampa airport, despite its distance (approximately a 45-minute drive from Clearwater and St. Pete), because it often has cheaper flight options. Taxis are available for transport from Tampa to Clearwater and St. Pete, but they can be pricey. Therefore, renting a car is advisable, making it easier to explore the attractions in the area.
Where to Stay in Clearwater Beach/St. Pete
There are numerous hotels in Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg that cater to families. Here are a few recommendations:
- Sheraton Sand Key Resort is a beachside resort located adjacent to Sand Key Park in Clearwater Beach.
- Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key is an all-suites property offering a kiddie pool, playground, Lisa’s Klubhouse for children aged 5 to 12, and activities for teens.
- Tradewinds Island Grand Resort on St. Pete Beach boasts several family-friendly amenities, including suites with kitchen facilities. Families enjoy the inflatable slide on the white-sand beach, beach cabanas, water trikes, multiple pools, a kids club, and a meandering river with paddle boats.
What to Do in Clearwater Beach/St. Pete With Kids
There’s an abundance of enjoyable activities in Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg, enough to fill a week-long family vacation. You might find yourself wanting to return multiple times to experience everything!
- Hit the High Seas: Get out on the water, whether through a fishing charter, dolphin-watching expedition, or a relaxing pleasure ride.
- Enjoy a Day at the Beach: Even if you’re not staying at a beachfront hotel, there are incredible public beaches, including Sand Key Park, Fort De Soto Park, and Pass-a-Grille Beach.
- Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Known for its resident dolphin Winter, this aquarium focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick and injured animals.
- Indulge in an Adrenaline Rush at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Located in Tampa Bay, this theme park offers numerous exhilarating rides, from roller coasters to thrilling water slides.
- Sail on a Pirate Cruise: Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise is a staple attraction in Clearwater Beach, featuring a vibrant pirate ship with costumed performers, treasure hunts, dancing, face painting, and more.
- Go Birdwatching at Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary: If your children are budding naturalists, visit this sanctuary, home to hundreds of rescued birds.
- Stroll the Piers: The St. Petersburg Pier extends a mile into the water and offers attractions such as The Pier Aquarium, shops, restaurants, and more. Meanwhile, Clearwater Beach’s Pier 60 features a free Sunset Festival with artists, street performers, and free evening movie screenings.
- Explore the Salvador Dalí Museum: One of St. Pete’s renowned museums, the Salvador Dali Museum hosts engaging family programming including storytelling, kid-friendly tours, and arts and crafts workshops.
- Take a Day Trip to Disney World or Universal Studios in Orlando: With Orlando just a two-hour journey away, families can easily visit its iconic theme parks.
