Stress-Free Last-Minute Trips in St. Pete-Clearwater

Beach Day & Sunset Adventure

Start your day with a walk along one of our beautiful beaches, then stake out a prime spot on the soft sands. Whether you prefer lounging under an umbrella or taking a swim, morning is the best time to enjoy beachside serenity before the midday crowds arrive, particularly if you're planning to visit two of our most popular beaches, Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach.

Take advantage of the warm, tranquil waters by renting a paddleboard or kayak and exploring the coastline from a new perspective.

As the day winds down, make your way to Pass-a-Grille Beach, where the sunset paints the sky in shades of pink and gold, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening. You can enjoy fresh seafood and live music right on the beach at Paradise Grille, where the tradition is to ring the large bell at sunset to mark the end of the day. There are so many ways to enjoy sunset in our beach communities.

Culture & Craft Beer Crawl

Immerse yourself in St. Pete-Clearwater's vibrant arts & culture by exploring the surreal wonders of the Dalí Museum or strolling past colorful murals in St. Pete’s EDGE District or Central Arts District.

Next, shift into relaxation mode with a self-guided craft beer crawl at several of St. Pete's top breweries, part of the Gulp Coast Craft Beer Trail. From crisp lagers to bold IPAs, there’s a brew to match every taste.

As evening sets in, explore the city's exciting dining scene at one of its excellent new restaurants.

Afterward, experience St. Pete's nightlife scene, or stop in to Bar Mezzo or Mandarin Hide for a craft cocktail and some chill conversation. And, if you want to let serendipity guide your getaway, just stroll Central Avenue, St. Pete's coolest street, to pop into a restaurant, bar or shop on a whim.

Nature Escape & Hidden Gem Dining

For a true escape into nature, paddle through the lush mangrove tunnels of Weedon Island Preserve in north St. Petersburg, where the only sounds will be the gentle splash of your paddle and the calls of native birds.

Afterward, have a sweet snack and delicious coffee at nearby Patrona Coastal Cafe, right on the water, or a meal al fresco at The Getaway, next door.

After you rest and refuel, continue your outdoor adventure at St. Pete's 100-year-old Sunken Gardens, or head southwest to visit lovely Fort De Soto Park, where pristine beaches and scenic trails offer natural beauty and tranquility.

When it's time for dinner, unwind at a hidden gem eatery known for its fresh, coastal flavors and relaxed ambiance that feels like a local secret. If you've enjoyed a day of outdoor adventures in St. Petersburg, Mullet's Fish Camp or Trophy Fish fit the bill perfectly for a casual dinner. Billy's Stone Crab in Tierra Verde is a great choice if you've spent the day at Fort De Soto Park. 

Shopping & Dining Excursion

Wander through one of St. Pete-Clearwater's bustling local markets, where artisans, farmers and food vendors show off their best products and dishes. Whether it’s handcrafted jewelry, unique artwork, or fresh produce, there’s always a treasure waiting to be found.

Continue your spontaneous day by exploring St. Pete's beautiful waterfront parks as well as the shops on Beach Drive, and nearby on Central Ave. 

Head to the beautiful St. Pete Pier District to stroll through this beautiful waterfront area, where you'll frequently find local artisans selling their creations at small kiosks, then enjoy a meal at one of the Pier's excellent restaurants such as Teak or Doc Ford's.

If you prefer to do your shopping and dining closer to the beach, make a beeline for John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk in Madeira Beach. Savor fresh seafood at rustic spots like Walt'z Fish Shak or the Friendly Fisherman, then enjoy the drive along Gulf Boulevard, stopping at one of our popular beach bars.

Better Deals on Hotels & Flights

Booking travel on short notice can mean scoring a great deal. Many hotels, vacation rentals and even airlines lower their rates to fill last-minute openings.

Insider Tip: You can book your trip through the easy-to-use Visit St. Pete-Clearwater accommodation tool.

Savings Tip: Download our FunShine Savings Passport for great deals and recommendations on things to do, or explore our collection of best deals this month.

Fewer Crowds & More Relaxation

Traveling in the shoulder season (spring or early summer before peak tourism) means enjoying beautiful beaches, popular attractions, and top dining spots without battling large crowds.

Insider Tip: Visit top beaches like Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach early in the morning for the best experience.

More Spontaneity & Less Pressure

One of the best parts of an unplanned trip is the freedom to explore at your own pace. You don’t have to commit to a rigid itinerary, just follow where the day takes you. Avoid overpacking—bring just the essentials (such as beachwear, casual outfits and sunscreen) so you can focus on fun, not logistics.

Insider Tip: Check out the local events this month for what's happening right now.

Mild Weather & Comfortable Travel

Late spring and early summer bring warm temperatures, but it's still a great time for relaxing on the beach, dining outdoors and exploring local attractions. You can maximize your comfort and enjoyment by spending time outdoors early and late in the day, and choosing to visit an attraction or museum in the middle of the day.

Insider Tip: Explore what to pack on your trip to the destination.

Surprise Factor & Excitement

A last-minute trip brings a sense of adventure and spontaneity that makes travel more exciting. With no over-planning, you’ll feel more present and open to unexpected fun.

Insider Tip: Let locals guide your trip—ask bartenders, hotel staff, or shop owners for their favorite hidden gems.

Stress-Free Approach: Don’t try to do it all—embrace a go-with-the-flow attitude and enjoy the moment.