Looking for ideas on where to go for your spring break? Want somewhere warm with beautiful beaches, great food, fun spots to explore, and plenty of aesthetic views for Instagram? Look no further. This March, I visited St. Petersburg, Florida for the first time. I spent my days soaking up the sun on the beach and exploring some amazing local spots that made the trip unforgettable.
If you’re searching for a destination to consider for next year’s spring break, keep reading for all the details on why St. Pete should be at the top of your list!
Treasure Island beach
First up on the list of the best spots I explored in St. Pete is Treasure Island Beach. During my spring break trip, I stayed at a hotel right on Treasure Island, just a short walk from the beach, which made it super convenient and relaxing.
The beach itself was incredibly clean, with bright blue water that looked straight out of a postcard. What I loved most was how calm and quiet it was compared to other parts of Florida during spring break. There was plenty of space for everyone to spread out, so it never felt crowded, and the overall vibe was peaceful and laid-back. Perfect for relaxing, tanning and enjoying the sun! You can even spot jet skis cruising in the distance, which adds to the whole beach experience!
The sand is soft and white, there are tons of beautiful seashells to collect, and the water is refreshing after spending the day in the sun. If you’re looking for a chill, quiet, yet beautiful beach in the St. Pete area, I definitely recommend checking out Treasure Island Beach!
Book + Bottle
The next spot on my list, and one of the most fun places I got to explore, was in downtown St. Pete. Surrounded by beachy shops and great restaurants, I stumbled upon an incredible bookstore called Book + Bottle.
This women-owned small business is such a unique concept, combining a bookstore, coffee shop, and wine bar all in one. As someone who loves books, coffee, and wine, this easily became my favorite stop of the entire trip.
Inside, you’ll find a wide range of books across every genre. From romance and memoirs to cookbooks and thrillers, so there’s truly something for everyone. Their wine selection is also amazing, with around 20 curated options that rotate often, making it fun to try something new each time you visit. The day I went was especially fun because it was St. Patrick’s Day, and they had a themed “verde” wine along with a festive matcha drink to celebrate. It made the whole experience feel even more special.
When I checked out with my new book, they even offered to emboss it, which was such a thoughtful and unique touch. Now I have a little keepsake from my trip to Florida that I’ll always remember!
If you’re a book lover heading to St. Pete, this is the perfect cozy afternoon spot. You can grab a book, pick out a drink, and relax outside in their comfy seating for a laid-back, peaceful break. 10/10 recommend Book + Bottle!
The getaway
The last location I really enjoyed was The Getaway, an outdoor restaurant just outside of downtown St. Pete. Located right on the water, it offers some of the most amazing views, especially around sunset. The overall aesthetic is such a vibe! Think tiki bar meets beachy paradise. Between the decor, the scenery, and the atmosphere, it was easily one of the coolest spots we visited.
The menu was just as impressive, with plenty of delicious options for both food and drinks. They offer a wide variety of seafood dishes, along with great non-seafood options for anyone who isn’t a big fan. For my meal, I ordered a grilled shrimp Caesar salad wrap with sweet potato fries, which was so good. My friend got a crab sandwich with yuca fries, and we shared hushpuppies with a raspberry dipping sauce as an appetizer. Definitely a highlight! Their drink menu is also worth mentioning, with a full bar and a long list of mocktails, so there’s something fun for everyone to enjoy!
One of the best parts about The Getaway, though, is its location right on the water. It’s actually known for having dolphins and manatees swimming nearby. During our dinner, we had the incredible experience of spotting a dolphin swimming by at sunset. It was a little shy and didn’t stay for long, but it was my first time ever seeing one, and easily one of the coolest moments of the trip!
Overall, if you’re looking for a place with great food, beautiful views, and even the chance to see some of Florida’s amazing wildlife, The Getaway is a must-visit when you’re in St. Pete!
Is St. Pete Worth It? (Spoiler: Yes)
Now that you know all of my favorite spots from my St. Pete trip, hopefully you’re convinced to add it to your spring break list! From relaxing beach days to exploring cute local spots and trying amazing food, there’s so much to love about this city. It’s the perfect mix of fun and laid-back, and I’d go back in a heartbeat!