Famed for holding the Guinness World Record for the most consecutive sunshine days at 768, St. Pete-Clearwater along Florida’s Gulf coast is renowned for its beaches and outdoor activities.
Ideal for soaking up the sunshine along 35-miles of white sand beaches, travellers can gear up for a relaxing day on the beach or taking an adventure via e-bike, segway, or jet ski.
President and CEO of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater, Brian Lowack says: “Every day is the perfect day to be adventuring in St. Pete-Clearwater. We are incredibly lucky to have some of America’s best beaches.”
Here’s some of the destination’s best outdoor activities.
Caladesi Island State Park & Shell Key Preserve
Only moments north of Clearwater Beach is the most popular state park – Caladesi Island State Park, which is accessible by beach walk during low tide or via ferry from neighbouring Honeymoon Island State Park. It has three miles of pristine white beaches, mangroves, and a three-mile wildlife trail.
Go clear bottomed kayaking to get the best views and experience of Caladesi, or paddleboarding for a more relaxing experience in shallow waters. State Park rangers are available to give tours, and possess extensive knowledge of the area’s history and wildlife.
Located south of St. Pete Beach, Shell Key Preserve is what you get when you combine clear waters and a biodiverse haven of beaches and winding mangroves. Travellers can expect a laid-back introduction to the ‘old-Florida’, where the preserve remains almost entirely untouched.
High-energy water sports
Adrenaline junkies will also feel at home along this stretch of the Gulf Coast. Jet skiing, paragliding, speed boating and more can be enjoyed along St. Pete-Clearwater’s coast. In October, Clearwater is home to the ‘Offshore National Championships’ – a high-octane powerboat race series.
The southernmost tip of the destination offers a spectacular wind tunnel, perfect for kite surfing, wind winging, hydrofoiling, and eFoiling – the newest 2024 Olympic sport.
Try E-Biking with ‘Bay-E-Bikes’
Outdoor exploration in St. Pete-Clearwater is not limited to being on the crystalline waters of the Gulf. Fort De Soto, a 1,136-acre park located south of St. Pete Beach, pairs sweeping views of the bay, white sand beaches and an abandoned army fort, best explored with Bay-E-Bikes.
Rich with knowledge, guided e-bike tours showcase the ruins at Fort De Soto (Battery Laidley and Battery Bigelow) during a two-hour trip. With ample time, travellers can stop at the fort to snorkel around its ruins.
Hike or paddleboard around Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve covers 3,000 acres and is home to hundreds of species of birds and aquatic life. Featuring both aquatic and upland ecosystems, Weedon Island is a diverse bio-hub visitors can explore by kayak or foot on one of the many hiking trails.
Dolphin spotting with Little Toot
Conservation efforts in the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay have created the ideal environment for dolphins and other marine animals to thrive. Departing daily from the Clearwater Marina, the Little Toot dolphin excursion hosts 90-minute coastal cruises. Expect emerald green waters with dolphins jumping playfully along the boat’s jet stream. Travellers can experience the area’s famed sunsets during the evening.
Paddleboard yoga
The still waters of the Tampa Bay area provide the perfect conditions for paddleboard yoga. With waters in the bay still enough for the downward dog, yoga gather in groups at dawn and dusk. Check out Salty Buddha St. Pete for their schedule. Also experience St. Pete-Clearwater at night via glow in the dark kayaking treks.
For more outdoor experience inspiration, visit: www.visitstpeteclearwater.com
