There’s just something about St. Pete Beach that hits. It’s laid-back but fun, beachy without being boring, and honestly one of my favorite places to unwind, reset, and live my best sunshine-soaked life. If you’re planning a week there (first of all, good for you), I’ve got you covered with a go-to itinerary that balances beach time, good eats, sunsets, and just the right sprinkle of activities. I’ve been vacationing here for about 17 years so I think I have a pretty solid list of activities.
Here’s how I’d spend a week in St. Pete Beach — based totally on my real-life routine when I’m there. ✌️
Day 1: Beach, Baby
Let’s not overthink the first day. You just arrived, your suitcase is probably half-unpacked, and the beach is right there calling your name.
What to do:
Hit the sand ASAP. I usually grab something super quick and easy — honestly, there’s a Jersey Mike’s nearby and it’s perfect to throw in your beach bag for a little sand-side picnic. Bring water, SPF, and snacks so you don’t have to get up once you’re planted. I also recommend renting a beach chair while you’re there or even better yet buy one from the nearby Publix and you can regift to a family just starting their vacation as you leave!
Evening plans:
After you’ve soaked up your sun and rinsed off the salt, head over to the Don CeSar for cocktails and dinner. It’s that iconic pink hotel you’ve probably seen all over Instagram, and the views are chef’s kiss. You’ll feel fancy without trying too hard.
Day 2: A Little Beach, A Little Nature
Morning:
Pack some light fruits or pastries and head back to the beach for a slower, more relaxed morning. I love snacking on fruit while just vibing under an umbrella — no rush, just beachy bliss.
Lunch:
Head to Focheezy for lunch — it’s a food truck vibe with grilled cheese that’s next level. Trust me, you’ll be thinking about it for days.
Afternoon:
Walk off the carbs at Sunken Gardens, which is this little tropical oasis right in the middle of everything. It feels like you stumbled into a secret jungle. Cute photo ops and surprisingly peaceful.
Dinner:
Make a reservation at Malio’s — it’s a bit more elevated, perfect if you want to dress up a little. The food? Phenomenal.
Day 3: Poolside Perfection
Morning:
Today’s a pool day, which means no sand in your bag — just you, a good book, and a floaty. I always DoorDash Playa Bowls to my hotel for breakfast because nothing screams “vacation” like eating an açaí bowl in your bikini next to the pool.
Lunch:
Make your way to Coconut Charlie’s for lunch — easy, beachside, and they’ve got a little bit of everything. Grab a frozen drink while you’re at it.
Evening:
Watch the sunset over the ocean — don’t rush this moment. It’s golden hour magic, and it never gets old.
Night:
When the sun’s down, head a little out of St. Pete’s Beach to Dirty Laundry Bar. Only a 20 minute Uber for some serious fun. Speakeasy vibes, strong drinks, and great music. You walk in through a literal laundromat — very much a vibe.
Day 4: Adventure Mode (But Make It Chill)
Breakfast:
Start your day with breakfast at SKD Kitchen & Drinks (Previously Skidders) — more diner-style, foods but beachy and solid.
Late Morning:
Do something adventurous today! Rent a banana boat or try parasailing. I was nervous at first but it’s so worth it — the views from up there are wild.
Lunch + Live Music:
Hit Jimmy B’s for lunch (they almost always have live music), and you’re right on the beach so the atmosphere is ✨immaculate✨.
Afternoon Stroll:
Take a walk toward the Secret Garden at the end of St. Pete Beach. It’s this quiet little nature spot that feels like a hidden treasure.
Dinner:
RumFish Grill for dinner is a must — mostly because of the GIANT aquarium inside. It’s like eating in an underwater dream.
Day 5: Boat Day + Mini Golf Shenanigans
Morning:
Head to Publix (yes, Publix is a personality trait in Florida) and grab some easy breakfast foods — think fresh fruit, OJ, and maybe a little champagne to make mimosas. Then hear me out… Rent a sailboat or book a spot on a Dolphin Landings Charter. This is peak Florida life and so relaxing. Make sure to call ahead to schedule— we rented a sailboat for the morning and we had the best time!
Afternoon Fun:
When you’re back on land, swing by the Tradewinds for mini golf. It’s free and gives you that nostalgic beach-town feel.
Dinner:
Wrap up your day with pasta and wine at Buona Ristorante. It’s cozy, family-owned, and the food is so good.
Day 6: Slow Down, Soak It In
Morning:
This is when I start to emotionally prepare for going home. I love doing morning beach yoga — even just stretching with the waves in the background changes your whole mood. Since St. Pete’s is such a sleepy beach town you’re likely to see few people there during sunrise too!
Beach + Light Breakfast:
Do a chill beach morning with some leftovers from your Publix haul (we love reducing waste). Bring your journal, book, or just close your eyes and enjoy.
Lunch + Chill:
Have lunch at Tradewinds and take advantage of their amenities — they’ve got hammocks, mini golf, live music, and even paddle boats. It’s a perfect place to wind down.
Dinner:
End the night with dinner at Spinners, the spinning rooftop restaurant. You’ll get 360° views of the ocean and city as you eat — such a cool, memorable way to wrap up your trip.
Day 7: Soak Up the Last Drops
Morning:
Before heading to the airport, grab a Starbucks and claim a chair at your hotel pool. Most hotels let you use their amenities until check-out or even a little later. No reason to rush to the airport feeling stressed — get those last rays in while you can.
Final Thoughts:
St. Pete Beach has this magic about it — where you can be totally relaxed one moment and dancing under the stars the next. Whether you’re beach-hopping, trying all the food spots, or just living in your bikini for a week straight, it’s the perfect place to recharge and enjoy life without the pressure of over-scheduling.
Let me know if you end up trying this itinerary — and if you discover any hidden gems of your own. I’m always down to add new favorites to my list. ☀️🌊
