This area in Florida is an elegant and luxurious beach destination that offers a similar vibe to Miami but without the crowds.
Miami boasts some of the most beloved and lively beaches, perfect for those seeking to maximise their seaside getaway. Nevertheless, there’s one spot that flawlessly marries both elements for holidaymakers who desire a luxurious experience while enjoying relatively peaceful surroundings.
Just four hours from the globally celebrated party hotspot lies a hidden gem that remains largely undiscovered despite apparently offering everything – including some truly impressive and clean beaches. The Tampa-neighbouring cities of Saint Petersburg-Clearwater provide the ideal blend of the relaxed atmosphere the rest of the Sunshine State is famous for, the sophistication of Miami’s Brickell district, and the artistic energy of the Wynwood Art District.
St Petersburg – widely referred to as St Pete – enjoys an average of 361 sunny days per year and an extensive range of culinary experiences and recreational pursuits, clearly demonstrating why Forbes declared it among the “Best Places to Travel in the US”.
It combines artsy, fashionable neighbourhoods with a thriving nightlife scene and convenient access to picture-perfect beaches and the Shell Key Preserve, an untouched, undeveloped barrier island reachable solely by boat. Unlike St Pete, where life is centred around the city’s offerings and artistic landmarks such as the Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center and the Salvador Dalí Museum, Clearwater is all about beach life.
From dolphin spotting tours and tiki boats to chilled-out beach yoga sessions and leisurely promenade strolls, it’s a seaside haven.
No trip to St Pete would be complete without a visit to the iconic Vinoy. Known both locally and internationally, this Mediterranean Revival-style building is famous not only for its stunning architecture but also for its colourful history and celebrity guest list, which includes names like Babe Ruth, Herbert Hoover, Calvin Coolidge and James Stewart.
In contrast, Clearwater offers the brand-new Opal Sol – a perfect blend of modern luxury and relaxed beachside comfort. With the Gulf of Mexico taking centre stage, it’s the ultimate coastal getaway.
With vibes reminiscent of 80s Miami, Clearwater Beach was recently named one of the best white sand beaches in the world by Travel + Leisure. It’s surrounded by other top-rated spots like Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, Honeymoon Island, and Pass-a-Grille Beach.