Adventure

From exploring the mural-covered streets, biplane rides and getting to know the area through its food, to heading to the beaches for some adventures on the water, it’s time to to find out the top things to do in St Petersburg in 48 hours.

When I was 15 I visited this region of Florida, and have happy memories of my first taste of Florida sunshine and beaches. I still remember the sand was whiter than any sand I’d seen before (yep – my family holidays generally involved annual trips to South Devon!) and the water was like getting into a bath. I loved it!

I was so excited to return to the area, especially once I saw our action packed itinerary. We’d already been swimming with manatees in Crystal River, swung from the trees and in Pasco County and enjoyed some excellent food, but there’s something extra special about reaching one of America’s best beaches. While its neighbour Clearwater Beach wins the bulk of the awards (including this year being named the top beach in America by TripAdvisor) St Pete Beach is also stunning, with miles of soft white sand.

I could happily spend a week in St Petersburg and St Pete Beach, but as many of you, like me, will only be there for a few days, I decided a 48-hour guide would work well. So with just two days to play with, here are my top picks! Plus if you’re looking for my tips on where to stay, scroll down for my selection of the best hotels in St Petersburg and St Pete Beach.

But first, here’s a little flavour of what I got up to….

48 HOURS IN ST PETERSBURG & ST PETE BEACH, FLORIDA

DAY 1 IN ST PETERSBURG & ST PETE BEACH, FLORIDA

Wake up early for a spot of sunrise paddle boarding with Sunccoast Surf Shop. While the sun actually rises on the other side to the ocean, our route took us out to the sea then in along a river. The sky was a candy floss pink, the ocean flat, and the experience absolutely magical. It was a fantastic way to wake up, and put me in a very calm state… We even saw dolphins!

Paddle boarding in St Pete, Florida

Combine breakfast and lunch, and head off on an Eat St Pete Food Tour. Explore Central Avenue’s varied food scene with tastings of key dishes, and plenty of stories from guide Deborah. This was a great way to get to know the area’s history, info on the mural scene and breweries, and find out why it’s such a special part of Florida. From ramen and falafel, to ice pops, you’ll leave feeling satisfied!

READ MORE: Best Restaurants In St Petersburg, Florida 

Brooklyn South, St Petersburg