St. Petersburg is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with year-round sunshine and a wealth of activities that offer a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. From white-sand beaches to botanical gardens and waterfront parks, the city offers something for everyone to enjoy in the fresh Florida air. This guide highlights the top outdoor activities, making it easy to plan a day (or week) of endless exploration and fun.
1. Enjoy Sun-Drenched Beaches
St. Petersburg’s beaches are legendary, drawing visitors from all over the world. St. Pete Beach, in particular, offers miles of white sand and sparkling Gulf waters. Families will appreciate the calm, shallow waves, while thrill-seekers can try parasailing, jet skiing, or paddleboarding. Clearwater Beach, just north of St. Petersburg, is another must-visit spot known for its soft sands and nightly sunset celebrations at Pier 60.
Beaches in St. Petersburg aren’t just for lounging. Fort De Soto Park offers beautiful beaches as well as campgrounds, hiking trails, and even a historic fort to explore. If you’re a dog owner, this park also includes a designated dog beach, making it a perfect spot for furry friends. With various beach access points and easy parking, St. Pete’s beaches make it simple to enjoy the coast any day of the week.
2. Explore Waterfront Parks and Trails
St. Petersburg’s scenic parks offer expansive waterfront views and endless opportunities to get active or simply unwind. The downtown waterfront park system includes Vinoy Park, North Shore Park, and Demens Landing Park, all of which are interconnected, providing a lovely place to walk, run, or bike with views of Tampa Bay.
The Pinellas Trail is a must-visit for those who enjoy staying active. This 45-mile-long trail stretches through St. Petersburg and beyond, perfect for cycling enthusiasts or anyone who loves a long, scenic walk. Biking the Pinellas Trail provides a wonderful way to explore different neighborhoods and witness St. Petersburg’s beautiful blend of urban and natural landscapes.
3. Discover the Sunken Gardens
One of the oldest roadside attractions in Florida, the Sunken Gardens offers a tropical oasis in the heart of St. Petersburg. Established over a century ago, this botanical garden is home to lush landscapes filled with exotic plants, colorful koi ponds, and tranquil waterfalls.
Visitors can stroll through the meandering paths and experience over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers. For anyone seeking a serene escape, this historic garden is a highlight among St. Petersburg’s attractions. With its variety of plants and scenic beauty, the Sunken Gardens is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
4. Kayaking and Paddleboarding at Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve offers a unique adventure for those who love the water. This 3,000-acre preserve is a natural gem, with a network of trails and waterways that showcase St. Petersburg’s unique ecosystems. The preserve’s paddling trails offer kayakers and paddleboarders a one-of-a-kind experience through mangrove tunnels and open water areas.
Guided tours are available for beginners, making the preserve accessible to all skill levels. But the best part? Paddling through the mangroves brings you close to local wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and various bird species. Weedon Island Preserve is truly a must-see for nature enthusiasts looking for immersive adventures in St. Petersburg.
5. Boating Adventures in the Bay
With its ideal coastal location, St. Petersburg offers an array of boating options to explore the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. From private charters to group excursions, there’s no shortage of ways to get out on the water. Dolphin and sunset cruises are especially popular, offering a relaxing way to take in the beauty of the Gulf while catching a glimpse of local marine life.
For a more active boating experience, consider renting a kayak or jet ski. Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay are both popular spots for boating and provide easy access to secluded sandbars and island beaches where you can take a private dip or enjoy a picnic. Experiencing St. Petersburg from the water gives a new perspective and is one of the top activities for both locals and visitors.
6. Visit Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a scenic park just minutes from downtown that offers a variety of outdoor activities. This 245-acre park along the shores of Lake Maggiore features winding boardwalks, nature trails, and lush pine flatwoods. Boyd Hill is an excellent spot for hiking and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of nature.
The preserve offers guided tours, as well as unique wildlife education programs for those who want to learn more about the native plants and animals of Florida. It provides a tranquil retreat for families and solo adventurers looking to experience the wilder side of St. Petersburg.
7. Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
Fishing enthusiasts will want to visit the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, one of the longest fishing piers in the world. Spanning Tampa Bay, this pier offers incredible fishing opportunities as well as fantastic views of the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Open 24/7, the pier is ideal for both day and night fishing, allowing anglers to catch a variety of species, including snapper, grouper, and tarpon.
For those who don’t fish, the Skyway Pier still provides a scenic spot to walk, enjoy a picnic, or take in the breathtaking views over the water. It’s an ideal outing for anyone looking to add a unique activity to their list.
8. Weekend Markets and Festivals
Outdoor events are a staple in St. Petersburg, providing a lively community experience alongside fresh air and sunshine. The St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market is the largest outdoor market in the Southeast and a must-visit for those looking to support local vendors. Held downtown, the market features local artisans, fresh produce, and live music, making it a great family-friendly activity.
Throughout the year, various festivals take place in St. Petersburg’s outdoor spaces, from music festivals to art shows, showcasing the area’s dynamic culture. Attending one of these events is an excellent way to experience the local spirit, making it one of the top things to do in the city.
Discover St. Petersburg Living with Kim van Herwynen
Ready to explore all that St. Petersburg has to offer and discover your own piece of paradise in this sun-soaked city? Kim van Herwynen is here to help you find your dream home and make the most of Florida’s Gulf Coast lifestyle. With her extensive local knowledge, Kim provides valuable insights into St. Petersburg’s neighborhoods and communities, helping clients make well-informed decisions.
Whether you're searching for a beachside retreat, a family-friendly neighborhood, or an investment property, Kim has the experience and dedication to guide you every step of the way. To start your real estate journey with a trusted expert, reach out to
Kim van Herwynen today.