a dramatic sunrise over the St. Pete Pier; the image has the words "Best of St. Pete-Clearwater" on top
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Best of Winners 2025

Discover the very best places to go and things to do in St. Pete-Clearwater, hand-picked by locals and visitors alike! 


We asked, and you answered. Read on to find the best experiences in St. Pete-Clearwater – most-loved beaches, restaurants, places to stay and things to do – as ranked by our destination's many fans. Peruse the results of our 2025 Best Of survey – you're sure to find someplace new to explore and enjoy. 

 

1

Best Beaches & Outdoor Fun

clearwater beach

Stunning Clearwater Beach is a perennial favorite for beach lovers.

The beaches of St. Pete-Clearwater are a perfect escape, so see what fun awaits you along the shore. Also discover our best boating and water adventures!

See the Best Beaches & Outdoor Fun
2

Best Places to Stay

a woman and a man walk down a shiny tiled hallway with arched ceilings at the Vinoy Resort & Golf Club

The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection, has been welcoming couples in style since the 1920s.

From boutique gems to luxurious resorts, beachside, bayside or in the city, we've got you covered with wonderful places to stay on your vacation or staycation.

See the Best Places to Stay
3

Best Things to Do

a woman in a blue dress with a small child look at a dolphin in a large tank at Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a beloved local attraction.

From museums and spas to family activities and fabulous outdoor markets, there's are so many fun activities in St. Pete-Clearwater. See the top choices for things to do in our destination.

See the Best Things to Do
4

Best Restaurants & Dining

A salad topped with cilantro and lemon

Enjoy creative cuisine at Clear Sky Beachside Cafe.

The culinary scene is top-notch in St. Pete-Clearwater, with options for any budget and food preference. Find our best restaurants, brunches, coffee shops and more!

See the Best Restaurants, Coffee Shops & More
5

Best Bars, Cocktails & Breweries

After Sunset view of the beach and a beach bar with palm trees on the beach with a beautiful colorful sky

There's nothing like savoring a cocktail at a beach bar right on the sand.

With stunning rooftop bars, laid-back places to enjoy a glass of wine, fun beach bars and award-winning breweries, you'll have plenty of places to enjoy a night (or day) out on the town.

See the Best Bars, Cocktails & Breweries
6

Best Festivals, Events & Live Music

an artist wearing a lime green t-shirt and a black baseball hat works on a sand sculpture of an iguana

The Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival brings talented artists to America's Favorite Beaches.

St. Pete-Clearwater has something fun going on no matter what time of year you visit! Check out some of our best festivals and places to listen to live music.

See the Best Festivals & Live Music Venues
7

Best 727 Influencers & Artisans

a close-up shot of a woman's face with white sunglasses that are reflecting palm trees and a beach scene; she is wearing a ruffle-edged straw hat and a multi-colored top

Kathy Fortner is a popular 727 influencer.

Learn about the hometown influencers who help promote our destination, as well as local makers who create unique products enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. Want to dive deeper? Read our feature story on the Best Local Makers in St. Pete-Clearwater.

See the Best Local Influencers & Makers
8

Best Trip & Event Planning

Couple on beach in front of Don Cesar

The Don Cesar is a beautiful backdrop for hosting a wedding or event.

See the best places to host your wedding, or seek convenient and eco-friendly public transportation options.

See the Best Trip & Event Planning