Time to Get Away!
written by Sara Toerner, FL Resident and vacation specialist
Where?? St. Petersburg/Clearwater, FL! This stretch of coastline, just 20 minutes from Tampa, boasts easy access and features miles and miles of white-sand beaches and crystal-clear, turquoise water. Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, Ft. DeSoto State Park, and Clearwater Beach are popular destinations for sun-seekers. Gulf Boulevard is meant for day and night-time meandering: it runs parallel to the water and is lined with beach-front boutiques and surf shops; sandy playgrounds; lively restaurants; ice cream parlors; and limited service, condo-style, and luxury hotels and resorts.
Warm Temperatures Year-round: Average April temperatures are 85 degrees which makes for sometimes chilly beach breezes and ocean water but warm afternoons. Summer temps hover in the 90’s and the ocean is refreshing. Fall temps are in the high 80’s. Winter is in the low-to-mid 70’s. Avoid the crowds by visiting while school is in session – you may not get to swim in the ocean on chilly days but you will likely have the heated hotel pool all to yourself. No matter what time of year, Northerners will appreciate an escape to some place warmer.
Have Some Fun: Relax on white-sand beaches watching the sunrise and sunset, then repeat. Dine on fresh seafood. Rent kayaks and coast along pristine water. Explore the coast on beach bicycles, hunting for seashells and sand dollars. Fishing charters, Dolphin cruises, and Pirate cruises are an entertaining way to get out on the water. Browse beach-side souvenir shops and ice cream parlors. Take a day-trip to the theme parks.There is so much to do!
Unique Dining: Fresh Gulf seafood, family-friendly eateries, and beach-side pub & grubs rule here. Our favorites: The Sea Hag, The Brown Boxer, Gator’s Dockside, and Super Scoops Ice Cream. Bubba Gump Seafood Company at John’s Pass, Crabby Bill’s, Middle Grounds, and Sloppy Joe’s are all highly-reviewed local favorites.
Easy Access: It’s just 20 miles to the shore from Tampa. Rent a car from Tampa International Airport or St. Pete/Clearwater International (which services regional air carriers). Allow extra driving time during the busier Summer and Spring Break seasons.
While You’re Here: Venture on over to Tampa for Busch Gardens, craft breweries, and lively festivals. Orlando’s Theme Parks: Walt Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios, and Legoland. Also the nearby Space Coast and Kennedy Space Center is a fun and educational day-trip.
Upgrade Your Experience: Splurge on a penthouse suite at a full-service luxury resort: the sunrise and sunset views are priceless. Concierge service will ensure your experience is unforgettable. You just might spend more time in your room than you expected.
Friendly Accommodations: Past clients have spoken highly of the area’s welcoming hotels: Residence Inn by Marriott Treasure Island, Sunset Vistas beachside condos, Treasure Island Beach Resort (New in 2016), and Tradewinds Resort to mention a few.
Call before you book! For personalized, knowledgeable beach vacation planning assistance, call Sara Toerner before reserving your next getaway at (813) 671-1199 or email sara@wishuponastar2.wpengine.com.