With its sugar-white sands, turquoise waters, and a vibrant arts scene, St. Pete-Clearwater draws millions of visitors to Florida’s Gulf Coast each year. If you’ve only got 48 hours to enjoy this sun-soaked region, we’ve crafted a two-day itinerary that blends must-see favorites with local hidden gems, perfect for first-time explorers of the area.
Day 1: Explore St. Pete
Morning
Start your day with a classic local breakfast at Skyway Jack’s Restaurant, a St. Pete staple since 1976. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot the giant Humpty Dumpty greeting visitors out front—quirky, charming, and unmistakably Florida.
Next, escape into the lush tranquility of Sunken Gardens, a botanical oasis that’s been blooming for more than a century. Tucked into St. Pete’s historic northeast neighborhood, this four-acre haven is home to more than 50,000 exotic plants, including towering palms, colorful bougainvillea, and rainbow eucalyptus. Meander along winding paths, and pause by cascading waterfalls. For the best experience, plan your visit for when they open at 10 a.m., when the weather is still cool and peaceful.
Afterward, head to the vibrant St. Pete Pier, a 26-acre waterfront destination that blends nature and play. Browse stalls where local vendors sell everything from handcrafted sea glass jewelry to gourmet popsicles made with Florida fruit; let the kids burn off energy at the playground and splash pad; and grab a bite at one of the seaside cafés. Also, consider a dive into the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, where hands-on exhibits and wildlife boat tours reveal the area’s rich coastal ecosystem.
Afternoon
Refuel with a delicious lunch at Teak St. Pete, a restaurant perched at the very end of the pier. It features Florida-inspired elevated casual cuisine and breathtaking panoramas of Tampa Bay. Try the grouper sandwich and a side of tricolored sweet potato fries with aioli sauce.
If you don’t hit the beach this afternoon (the small Spa Beach is conveniently at the base of the pier), opt for some indoor exploring at one of the area’s museums.
- Find incredible artwork that captures the spirit of pioneers, Native American cultures, and the region's wildlife at The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art. Free docent-led tours are available, or take a mobile audio tour to guide your visit.
- Explore a surrealist wonderland at The Dalí Museum, where Salvador Dalí's inventive artworks come to life through iconic melting clocks, dream-like landscapes, and enigmatic sculptures. For a truly immersive experience, see “Dalí Alive 360°”—a mind-bending exhibit powered by dynamic animations, light, and sound designed to transport you into Dalí's creative genius.
- Experience FloridaRAMA, an innovative and immersive arts and entertainment complex bursting with multisensory local art installations, color explosions in every room, and gamified scavenger hunts.
Evening
Drive to John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk, a family-friendly destination in Madeira Beach. This lively waterfront hub is dotted with watersports rentals, local tours (think pirate ships and dolphin-watching), boutique shops, casual eateries, and a marina. Stroll the boardwalk with an ice cream cone in hand, but save your appetite for a sunset dinner in Clearwater.
Anchor your coastal getaway at the AAA Four Diamond JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. With elegantly appointed rooms, a private white-sand beach, three on-site restaurants, a rooftop pool, and a luxurious spa, this resort offers an ideal spot to unwind in style after a full day of exploring.
Savor a sunset dinner at the Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar, a Clearwater institution since 1926. Known for its laid-back vibe, live music, and fresh seafood and steaks, this casual oceanfront gem is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Grab an outdoor table, order the Island Mahi-Mahi topped with mango-avocado salsa, and soak in a spectacular oceanfront sunset.
Cap off your evening with a cocktail and a dip in the JW Marriott’s rooftop pool, the perfect end to a sun-soaked Florida day.
Day 2: Explore Clearwater
Morning
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Latitude 28, one of the on-site restaurants at the JW Marriott, where you can kickstart your day with a healthy chia seed pudding or a hearty made-to-order omelet.
To fill up the remainder of your morning leading up to lunch, choose from one of the following:
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Dive into the inspiring world of marine rescue and conservation at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This renowned marine rehabilitation center focuses on the rescue, rehab, and release of injured marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, otters, stingrays, and more—all thriving under the care of marine biologists and veterinarians. Interactive exhibits, underwater viewing tunnels, and behind-the-scenes tours make this a great spot to connect with Florida’s coastal wildlife and the efforts to protect it. Don’t miss the new Manatee Rehabilitation Center, where you can observe these gentle giants as they recover in specially designed care pools.
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Escape to the pristine shores of Caladesi Island State Park. This three-mile unspoiled barrier island was named the No. 2 beach in the US by Dr. Beach in 2022. Accessible only by boat, Caladesi offers an ideal mix of serenity and adventure. (Ferries depart hourly from Honeymoon Island Docks, and the ride takes about 20 minutes. At press time, the ferry was temporarily closed for repair work, so be sure to check the status before planning your visit.) Swim in the turquoise Gulf waters, walk the scenic nature trail, or kayak through the mangrove-lined waterways. With a four-hour limit on the island, plan to refresh back at your hotel before heading to lunch.
Afternoon
Whichever morning adventure you choose, plan to return to the mainland in time for a relaxing lunch at Columbia Restaurant, a Florida staple that’s been serving delicious Spanish–Cuban cuisine based on family recipes since 1905. Indulge in one of the restaurant’s legendary mojitos and savor tapas favorites such as papas salteado (seasoned diced potatoes) and empanadas de picadillo (seasoned ground beef in a flaky pastry).
With your appetite satiated, next visit: Dunedin, a Scottish-influenced town boasting a quaint main street area sprinkled with local shops, restaurants, and a cozy history museum. The lovely Pinellas Trail runs through the center of town, which makes for a picturesque stroll. Feeling thirsty? Stop for a Golf Cart Amber at HOB Brewery Company, a massive outdoor space with dozens of craft brews on tap.
Evening
As the day winds down, head to Pier 60 on Clearwater Beach for the renowned sunset celebration, complete with lively crowds, local artisans, and street performers. Then, make your final dinner a memorable one at Island Way Grill, an eatery specializing in fresh seafood—including tuna, mahi, and snapper—delivered daily from the Gulf. Grab a table on the outdoor deck to enjoy waterfront views as you savor your final evening in the St. Pete-Clearwater area.
Tip: Looking to save money during your trip? Sign up for the free FunShine Savings Passport, which offers dozens of deals and discounts at attractions, museums, shops, tours, and local restaurants across St. Pete-Clearwater.