St. Petersburg Beaches: Guide to Top Activities, Family Fun

St. Petersburg ranks as a top spot for family vacations due to its friendly vibe and unforgettable beaches. In fact, many St. Petersburg beaches have won international and national acclaim as some of the best in the world. But what makes them so special? These beaches offer more than warm sand and Gulf views. They also provide families with fun activities and proximity to major attractions. Learn more about the St. Petersburg beaches.

Find Family Fun at These St. Petersburg Beaches

St. Petersburg Beaches: Stay Close to the Action

Explore Madeira Beach

Enjoy proximity to attractions and a lively scene at Madeira Beach. Known as “Mad Beach” and “grouper capital of the world,” it’s no surprise this beach bustles with locals and visitors year-round.

Fun activities in the area include boating and dolphin tours, snorkeling, water sports, parasailing, and more. In addition, the area houses John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk, featuring more than 100 spots for good food and boutique shopping. Those looking to enjoy Gulf views and have proximity to fun can stay in Madeira Beach, and never miss a thing.

See St. Pete Beach

Consistently voted one of the best beaches in the U.S., St. Pete Beach has the longest undeveloped stretch of public beach in Pinellas County. One of the things that makes this beach so popular – aside from its natural beauty – is the laid-back vibe guests feel as soon as they step foot on the sand.

Families visiting St. Pete Beach have access to cruises, fishing charters, kayaking, kiteboarding and more. This beach is also located near many of the area’s top attractions and restaurants.

Escape to Treasure Island

Treasure Island Beach features 6 acres of white sand and an Old Florida feel. Visitors can see breathtaking sunsets, parasail, swim and snorkel. When it’s time for a break, head to the public beach snackbar or enjoy a picnic with the family.

Those who would like to book a Treasure Island vacation can do that too, as the area also houses vacation rentals, attractions, restaurants and events. Read more about how Treasure Island makes vacation dreams come true.

Pass-A-Grille Beach

Located at the southern end of St. Pete Beach, guests find Pass-A-Grille Beach. This historic town combines quaint vibes with modern amenities. Due to its relaxing atmosphere, this beach is a top spot for sunset viewing, dolphin watching, sightseeing and fishing.

Families can also book a trip to Shell Key Preserve via the Shell Key Trolley to explore one of the area’s largest barrier islands. Shell Key measures 1,800 acres and offers opportunities for bird-watching and beach fun.

St. Petersburg Beaches: Parks and Day Trip Ideas

Learn and Play at Ft. DeSoto Beach

Covering five islands and measuring more than 1,000 acres, Fort De Soto Park doubles as a beach destination and top spot for nature enthusiasts. These islands feature mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks and lots of native plants. Its location on the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay also provides guests opportunities for paddling, fishing and shelling. The park houses 7 miles of waterfront, complete with 3 miles of sandy shores, a boat launch, picnic shelters, playgrounds and restrooms. While playing at the park, don’t miss the great view of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

History buffs should spend time at Fort De Soto’s historic fort and museum, which tells the rich history of this fort through photos, documents and Spanish-American War artifacts.

Let Egmont Key Ease Your Worries

Egmont Key serves as a refuge for both wildlife and visitors. The state park is only accessible by private boat, providing guests a place to unwind, collect shells and enjoy nature.

Egmont Key also features a historic lighthouse, Fort Dade from the Spanish-American War, and native plants and animals. Other things to do include swimming, fishing and picnicking. Guests should also bring their own food and drinks, as there is no drinking water or stores available at the park.

Play at Maximo Beach and Park

Both a beach park and educational site, Maximo Beach and Park sits on 70 acres of wilderness areas. This natural attraction invites guests to relax and play on the beach, as well as learn about the Native Americans who once inhabited the area.

The park showcases their villages, educational signage and paintings by local artist Hermann Trappman, who visually tells the area’s history. Families can also go boating, play disc golf, have a picnic and fish from the shore. Kids love escaping the hot sun and playing on the covered playground.

Check Out North Shore Beach and Park

Another popular family-friendly spot is North Shore Beach and Park. Situated on more than 33 acres, this park not only features a beach but also playground, dog park, and the North Shore Aquatic and Sports complexes.

Top activities include biking on paved pathways, tennis, baseball and softball, and admiring waterfront views. Note: This is also a great place to watch a famous St. Pete sunset.

Ready for a getaway? Browse St. Petersburg beaches vacation rentals.