Home to over 35-miles of pristine beaches and a variety of action-packed activities for all ages, St. Pete-Clearwater is an ideal destination for families seeking a sun-soaked holiday. Holidaymakers looking to relax and unwind will enjoy an easy going stay on America’s Best Beaches and unique cultural experiences while those hoping for a more active adventure can enjoy a wide range of outdoor fun.
Whether travelling with small kids or teens, St. Pete-Clearwater has a spot to suit all. Little ones will delight in a visit with the rescued residents at Clearwater Marine Aquarium while older kids will enjoy the adrenaline rush of cruising across the water on a jet ski adventure.
CEO and President of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater, Brian Lowack says: “St. Pete-Clearwater is home to stunning beaches with excellent sunsets, thrilling water sport adventures, and exciting attractions for kids and parents of all ages! The unique experiences at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, St. Pete Pier and Great Explorations Children’s Museum, as well as new additions like the brand-new Atomic Claw Arcade, mean holiday memories are ready to be made at America’s Best Beaches.”
Read below for top recommendations on family-friendly activities and accommodations in Florida’s premier beach holiday destination…
Sun, Sand, and Adventure
Averaging 361 days of sunshine per year means there is plenty of time to enjoy relaxing beach time and adventures out exploring the wider destination.
After a morning spent relaxing on Clearwater Beach, why not take a trip to the nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium? Famously home to Winter the Dolphin, Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is not just an aquarium, but also a rescue and rehabilitation centre. Kids can meet an array of animals who call CMA home including playful dolphins, silly sea turtles, and peppy pelicans while also learning about how they can help protect marine life. Visitors young and old alike will be inspired by the brilliant work of the CMA team.
The calm turquoise water isn’t just for observing or swimming, but also for kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and more! Take a guided tour of Shell Key Preserve in clear bottom kayaks with Get Up and Go Kayaking which was recently rated amongst the top 10 US Vacation Activities by TripAdvisor or zoom across the flat waters of the bay and gentle crests of the Gulf on a jet ski from Sand Key Power Sports. Whether travelling with big kids, small kids, or a mix of the two, there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
Families can spend a day enjoying the beaches of Treasure Island or paddleboarding along its shores, before clawing their way to big prizes at Atomic Claw Arcade. Recently opened in February 2025, this Japanese-style claw arcade is retro with a modern twist and has more than 40 claw machine games with 1,000s of prizes ready to be won.
Not only is St. Pete-Clearwater home to America’s Best Beaches, but also a vibrant arts scene. When that holiday glow starts to turn into a holiday tan, FloridaRAMA in St. Pete offers a great break from the Florida sun. This immersive gallery houses work from local and international artists designed to showcase the best of Florida. Plus, if the bright colours and interactive art wasn’t enough, there’s a scavenger hunt to keep little ones engaged.
The Perfect Family Stay
Choosing the right place to stay is an important part of any holiday, and when travelling with the family, the decision becomes even more important. St. Pete-Clearwater offers plenty of options geared towards families, so whether a beachfront hotel with a designated kids club is the priority or a downtown luxury condo is preferred, there is a space to meet everybody’s needs.
Unwind in the spacious rooms at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa on Clearwater Beach after a day playing in the white-sugar sand. Kids can make the most of the multitude of kid’s club activities including hands-on arts & crafts, competitive hula hoop competitions, and tasty poolside treats while parents take advantage of the luxurious hotel spa and upscale dining.
If picking one property is too difficult, holidaymakers can book a room or villa at one of the TradeWinds Resorts on St. Pete Beach which grants guests access to both Island Grand and RumFish Beach Resort. With access to nine pools, a sunset game zone, a miniature golf course, craft classes, and beach games, parents will never have to hear the dreaded words “I’m bored!” Plus, parents can enjoy 14 unique dining options and a relaxing massage at the on-site spa while the kids play at the drop-off kids’ camp.
For those looking for a spot of luxury while still catering to the whole family, The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club, Autograph Collection in downtown St. Pete offers just that. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown and right on the bay for spectacular sunrises, this iconic property was recently renovated, bringing its rich history into modern times while embracing its past. Golfers can enjoy a round of golf on the luscious greens at the golf club, plus kids under 16 play free. If golf isn’t the family activity of choice, there are numerous museums, sporting activities, the iconic St. Pete Pier, and more just a few steps away!
Whether looking for an adventure under the Florida sun or a relaxing holiday on America’s Best Beaches, St. Pete-Clearwater has something to offer the entire family.
To learn more about family-friendly activities and accommodations in the destination, visit www.visitstpeteclearwater.com
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About Visit St. Pete-Clearwater:
Nestled on a sun-soaked peninsula on Florida’s west coast, separating the Gulf Coast from Tampa Bay, St. Pete-Clearwater is the gateway to world-class cultural experiences along with 35 miles of award-winning white-sand beaches annually ranked among the world’s best. Immerse yourself in our picturesque sunsets & go beyond the beaches to explore our unique cultural heritage, interactive art exhibits, sporting & recreational activities, a culinary scene serving an innovatively delicious dining experience, & great local shopping. St. Pete-Clearwater is your only destination with spectacular beaches complimented by world-renowned museums, family fun & endless sunshine.
Tampa International Airport is the gateway to St. Pete-Clearwater, conveniently located just 30 minutes away from America’s Best Beaches and offers daily flights from London through Virgin Atlantic and British Airways. To learn more about St. Pete-Clearwater, visit visitstpeteclearwater.com.
