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Your next adventure awaits … and it may be closer than you think!
If a new and different beach experience is what you are looking for in 2024 – something a little less hectic than the South Florida scene – just a few hours north is another slice of paradise you may want to consider for you and your family.
With 35 miles of uninterrupted coastline including some of the annually top-rated beaches and a flourishing arts and culture scene, it’s no surprise that St. Pete/Clearwater is the most popular tourism destination on Florida’s other coast along the Gulf of Mexico. The region offers a plethora of experiences perfect for travelers of all ages. From long walks along the shores of America’s Best Beaches to short walks through a lively downtown St. Pete scene, St. Pete/Clearwater is a great option for the ultimate weekend getaway.
Unique family-friendly experiences are at every turn in St. Pete/Clearwater. Visit Sunken Gardens, a beautiful botanical paradise, then check out the iconic St. Pete Pier which has redefined the meaning of the word “pier” by serving as an all-encompassing entertainment district that extends out 3,000 feet into Tampa Bay.
Whether you want to relax along Clearwater Beach at the brand-new JW Marriott Resort & Spa or the refined Opal Sands, or maybe hide away in Indian Shores at the Sunburst Inn (which was completely refurbished by HGTV’s 100 Day Dream Home show), there is an accommodation to meet your needs. For your youngest Floridians, the TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort is the perfect beachfront playground for the kids. The expansive St. Pete Beach property includes five pools, a 33,500-gallon aquarium, dive-in movies, floating cabanas, a three-story water slide that is 200 feet long, along with beachfront bars and sunset fire pit s’mores – whatever type of getaway you have in mind, you’ll find it there.
Off the beach, check out the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a sanctuary for marine life enthusiasts, allowing visitors to connect with marine life and instilling a sense of responsibility for the oceans. Or, if you’re looking for a new art experience, St. Pete has a colorful kaleidoscope of options. The city was recently named by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the top small cities with a big-time arts scene. The Dali Museum has the largest collection of Salvador Dali art outside of Spain. Spectacular glass art displays await at the Chihuly Collection as well as the Imagine Museum, a one-of-a-kind glass art display with more than 500 pieces to view. And, the newest addition to the arts scene – Fairgrounds – offers an a playful multi-sensory immersive world, featuring works by acclaimed artists from Florida and around the globe.
Step out of the norm for your next family getaway, check out St. Pete/Clearwater to soak up the sun and fun at America’s Best Beaches and beyond.
