Located on a sun-drenched peninsula along Florida’s Gulf Coast, St. Pete–Clearwater is a dreamy mix of soft white sand beaches, award-winning culture, and unforgettable experiences. With 35 miles of coastline that regularly top global “Best Beaches” lists, this destination is more than just beautiful—it’s full of life. Think world-class art, interactive museums, outdoor adventures, vibrant local eats, and boutique shopping—wrapped in nonstop sunshine and good vibes. Now, it’s also home to the MoM, the Museum of Motherhood.
Yes, the beaches are stunning—but St. Pete–Clearwater’s wild side is just as exciting. Imagine kayaking through glowing waters, spotting dolphins, or combing the beach for fossilized shark teeth at Honeymoon Island State Park.
Don’t let the romantic name fool you—this spot is for adventurers and collectors. The beach here is a treasure trove for rare finds, especially tiny black, brown, or grey shark teeth hiding just below the sand. Bring a sieve—it’s like nature’s scavenger hunt.
Beyond the beach, scenic trails wind through pine forests where osprey nest and gopher tortoises cross your path. If you’re lucky, you’ll even catch dolphins playing in the surf. It’s the perfect blend of peaceful and wild.
Wild Encounters at Fort De Soto Park
Further south, Fort De Soto Park is another paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re biking along 11 kilometers of trails, paddling through mangroves, or chilling at the dog beach, there’s something for everyone. One of the highlights? Spotting Florida’s gentle giants—manatees. These slow-moving, elephant-like sea creatures munch on seagrass and float peacefully through the park’s protected waters.
Camping is a dream here, with 238 nature-surrounded sites, plus fishing piers, boat ramps, and views that stretch forever. The historic fort—built from shells during the Spanish-American War—adds a unique touch of history.
Anclote Key Preserve: Off the Grid Beauty
Looking for something more remote? Set sail to Anclote Key Preserve State Park, a secluded island accessible by boat. Located five kilometers off Tarpon Springs, it’s home to over 40 bird species, including the rare American oystercatcher. The island’s crown jewel is a historic 1887 lighthouse offering breathtaking views—timing your trip for open hours is totally worth it.
Close by, Sand Key Park is a beach lover’s haven with kayaking, picnic spots, and nesting sea turtles from May to October. Even more off-the-radar are Shell Key and Egmont Key, two wildlife reserves only accessible by ferry. For a truly local experience, explore Dunedin and Tarpon Springs, which Southern Living named Florida’s top two most affordable beach towns in 2024.
One-of-a-Kind: The Museum of Motherhood (MoM)
Nowhere else in the world will you find a museum like MoM—the Museum of Motherhood in St. Pete. This unique space is dedicated entirely to exploring the art, science, and cultural narratives of motherhood. From interactive pregnancy vests to deeply personal moments like writing a letter to your own mom, it’s a place that blends education, emotion, and empowerment.
MoM doesn’t shy away from challenging stereotypes either. It presents diverse images of motherhood, far beyond the outdated suburban housewife trope. Films, art, and festivals created by and for mothers are part of the museum’s mission. A must-see is the brand-new Escape Womb—a playful, thought-provoking escape room that explores what it really means to be a mom. The museum was founded by musician Martha Joy Rose, who still leads it today.
A World-Class Art Destination
Art lovers, rejoice—St. Pete is a cultural treasure. The iconic Dalí Museum holds the largest Salvador Dalí collection outside of Spain, inviting visitors into a dreamlike, surrealist world. Beyond Dalí, the Museum of Fine Arts offers masterpieces from across the ages, while the Imagine Museum showcases mind-blowing contemporary glass art. As usual, you can dive deep into the state’s website.
Text: Marco Kokkot
Images: © Steven P. Widoff
