Treasure Island Activities: Vacation Dreams Really Do Come True

When visiting Treasure Island, it’s difficult not to get wrapped up in the laid-back lifestyle of Old Florida. Treasure Island was named when an early hotel owner buried then discovered a couple of wooden chests on the beach. News quickly spread, so others started calling the area Treasure Island, and the rest is history. Today, guests visit Treasure Island for its 3 miles of beaches and family activities. Read on to learn about the top Treasure Island activities.

Top Treasure Island Activities and Attractions Near St. Petersburg

Plan for Water Fun in Treasure Island

A beach vacation isn’t complete without playing in the water. Treasure Island Beach ranks as a favorite beach and offers activities that include swimming, snorkeling, shelling, parasailing, fishing and wildlife watching. Online reviewers also praise the beach for its cleanliness and relaxed vibe. Families can also explore Pass-a-Grill Beach and Madeira Beach, two other family-friendly beaches in the area.

Another top among Treasure Island activities is riding a bikes to Sunset Vista Trailhead Park. The park isn’t technically a city-designated beach. However, the beach is one of the best spots in Treasure Island to see Gulf sunsets. The park also features a small trail that winds along dunes and provides visitors a quiet escape.

Play the Golf Courses

Golfers have their own personal paradise in Treasure Island, which is home to Treasure Bay Golf and Tennis. The public course features fun and challenging nine-holes, par 3, perfect for a quick game with friends and family. Visitors often rave about the views and affordable prices, as each guest can play nine holes twice for around $10. Tennis courts are available for $2-10, and host mixers, leagues and tournaments.

Spend a Day at John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk

Located next to Treasure Island in Madeira Beach, visitors should explore John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk. John’s Pass features shopping, restaurants and things to do. Locals refer to the area as The Pass, which was created by a hurricane in 1848.

While here, take a dolphin or shelling tour, go parasailing, and rent boats and jet skis. Signature events at The Pass range from one of the largest seafood and music festivals in the U.S. to the Battle in the Gulf Fishing Tournament.

Don’t Miss Iconic Attractions and Events

Since 1967, Treasure Island Fun Center in Seminole has delighted visitors of all ages. The center measures more than 16,000 square feet of family fun with games and entertainment. Guests can purchase an unlimited play package – starting at $5 per child – for a day of arcade battles.

To find that perfect souvenir and meet locals, stop by The Florida Shell Shop. For 50-plus years, this shop has welcomed guests with Old Florida style. The family-owned and operated store sells gifts, nautical merchandise, souvenirs, jewelry and more. It’s also the oldest shop on Treasure Island.

Each May, the beach town hosts a street party, Rock Around the Clock. This local event has live music, fresh food and vendors. The free event runs until 11 p.m., providing adults an excuse to stay up late. For year-round nightlife, check out Ka’Tiki, Keel and Curley’s Vino-N-Brew, The Cigar Republic, and CJ’s On The Island, a local dive bar.

Looking for a vacation rental? Browse affordable rentals in Treasure Island and St. Pete area.