Pinellas County Travel Guide
Discover the best of Pinellas County, Florida: from natural wonders to cultural landmarks, delicious food and drink options, and more!
- Introduction to Pinellas County
- List of Places to Visit in Pinellas County
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Pinellas County
- Best Things to Do in Pinellas County: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Pinellas County
- Food and Drink Scene of Pinellas County
- Where to Stay in Pinellas County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Pinellas County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Pinellas County
- Best Time to Visit Pinellas County
- Do’s and Don’ts of Pinellas County
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Pinellas County: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Pinellas County
- Where to Go Next from Pinellas County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Pinellas County
Located in the heart of the Tampa Bay Area, Pinellas County is a hidden gem on Florida’s West Coast. With its stunning beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and exciting outdoor adventures, it’s no surprise that Pinellas County is a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and fun.
List of Places to Visit in Pinellas County
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s no shortage of incredible places to explore in Pinellas County. Here are some of our top picks:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg
- The Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg
- The Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Historic District
- The Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg
Natural Attractions of Pinellas County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Caladesi Island State Park
- Honeymoon Island State Park
- Fort De Soto Park
- Clearwater Beach
Hiking/Biking Routes of Pinellas County
For those seeking an outdoor adventure in Pinellas County, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Check out these popular routes:
- The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail
- Weedon Island Preserve
- Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
- Philippe Park
Best Things to Do in Pinellas County: Activities and Tours
Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, Pinellas County offers a variety of activities and tours that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. Here are some of our top picks:
- Dolphin Watching Tours
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding and Kayaking
- Jet Ski Rentals
- Fishing Charters
Week-Long Itinerary for Pinellas County
To make the most of your time in Pinellas County, check out this week-long itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Stroll through downtown St. Petersburg and visit the Museum of Fine Arts |
| Day 2 | Spend the day at Clearwater Beach |
| Day 3 | Explore the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Historic District |
| Day 4 | Hike the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail |
| Day 5 | Relax and enjoy Honeymoon Island State Park |
| Day 6 | Take a dolphin watching tour |
| Day 7 | Visit the Salvador Dali Museum and enjoy dinner in downtown St. Petersburg |
Food and Drink Scene of Pinellas County
From fresh seafood to craft beer, Pinellas County is a foodie’s paradise. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Grouper Sandwich
- Stone Crab Claws
- Greek Salad
- Key Lime Pie
Local Beverages
- Cigar City Brewing Jai Alai IPA
- The Black Honkeys Wine
- Tarpon Springs Brewing Co. Beers
- St. Pete Pier Soda Works Drinks
Where to Stay in Pinellas County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Whether you prefer a beachfront hotel or a cozy guesthouse, Pinellas County has a variety of lodging options to suit any budget. Here are some of our favorite places to stay:
- The Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach
- The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club
- Postcard Inn on the Beach in St. Pete Beach
- The Birchwood in downtown St. Petersburg
What to Buy in Pinellas County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Don’t leave Pinellas County without picking up a few souvenirs and local products to remind you of your trip. Here are some must-buy items:
- Sponge Diver Apparel in Tarpon Springs
- Local Honey
- Sea Salt Scrubs and Bath Bombs
- Tampa Bay Times Newspaper
Local Culture and Customs of Pinellas County
In Pinellas County, locals are known for their laid-back lifestyle and friendly demeanor. Visitors can enjoy the area’s vibrant arts scene, diverse cuisine, and rich history. Don’t be shy to strike up a conversation with a local and learn more about the area’s unique personality and history.
Best Time to Visit Pinellas County
The best time to visit Pinellas County is between October and April, when the humidity is lower and temperatures are milder. If you’re planning a beach vacation, aim for late fall or early spring when the crowds are thinner and the water is still warm.
Do’s and Don’ts of Pinellas County
Do:
- Wear sunscreen
- Embrace the local cuisine and culture
- Explore the area’s outdoor adventures
Don’t:
- Forget to bring bug spray
- Leave valuables in your car on the beach
- Feed the birds on the beach
Safety and Health
Safety in Pinellas County
Pinellas County is a relatively safe area, but it’s always important to take precautions. When visiting the beach, be aware of water currents and always swim near a lifeguard station. On the trails, watch out for snakes, spiders, and other wildlife.
Health in Pinellas County
Pinellas County has numerous medical facilities and hospitals in case of emergency. Visitors are advised to bring any necessary prescription medication and have health insurance coverage.
Getting to Pinellas County: Transportation Options and Logistics
For travelers flying into Pinellas County, Tampa International Airport is the nearest major airport. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle to their hotel. Alternatively, visitors can drive to Pinellas County from nearby cities like Orlando or Miami.
Airports Near Pinellas County
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
Bus Stations Near Pinellas County
- Greyhound Bus Station in Tampa
- St. Petersburg Greyhound Bus Station
Other Options
- Uber and Lyft ride services
- Private transportation and shuttle services
How to Get Around in Pinellas County
Pinellas County offers numerous transportation options for visitors. The most popular modes of transportation include renting a car, taking a taxi or rideshare service, or utilizing the local bus system.
Where to Go Next from Pinellas County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you’re looking for more to explore after your time in Pinellas County, here are some nearby destinations to consider:
- Tampa, Florida
- Sarasota, Florida
- Orlando, Florida
- Miami, Florida
Conclusion
From its stunning beaches to its vibrant culture and exciting outdoor adventures, Pinellas County has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, remember to take plenty of sunscreen and enjoy all that this hidden gem has to offer.
