Day Trips from St. Petersburg
← All St. Petersburg day tripsDay Trips from St. Petersburg: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of St. Petersburg, FL. Lake beaches, river walks, and coastal parks that make for a perfect warm-weather day trip. Real drive times, ratings, and photos included.
12 beaches near St. Petersburg
Safety Harbor Waterfront Park
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
Just 25 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.8 stars by 962 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lakefront Park
St Cloud, FL 34769
Just 1 hr 50 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.7 stars by 5,500 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Redington Shores Beach Access
Redington Shores, FL 33708
Just 31 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.7 stars by 548 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Dunnellon, FL 34432
Just 1 hr 51 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.7 stars by 10,836 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lakefront Beach
FL 34769, USA
Just 1 hr 50 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.7 stars by 1,232 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Tiki Gardens - Indian Shores Beach Access
Indian Shores, FL 33785
Just 33 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.7 stars by 1,739 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bowditch Point Park
Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Just 2 hrs 10 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.7 stars by 2,280 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Anclote River Park
Holiday, FL 34691
Just 47 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.6 stars by 3,281 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Robert J. Strickland Memorial Park
Hudson, FL 34667
Just 1 hr 5 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.4 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Port Charlotte Beach Park
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Just 1 hr 23 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.4 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ben T Davis beach
Tampa, FL 33607
Just 23 min from St. Petersburg, rated 4.2 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lakefront Beach
Florida 33913, USA
Just 1 hr 54 min from St. Petersburg, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from St. Petersburg
What are the best beaches near St. Petersburg, FL?
The best beaches near St. Petersburg include lake beaches, state park swimming areas, and waterfront parks. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable beaches within driving distance of St. Petersburg?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of St. Petersburg have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. State park beaches are often the cleanest and best-maintained options.
When is the best time to visit beaches near St. Petersburg?
Late May through September is prime beach season near St. Petersburg. June and July offer the warmest water temperatures. Shoulder months (May, September) have fewer crowds and are great for walking and photography.
What should I bring for a beach day trip from St. Petersburg?
Pack sunscreen, towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, and water shoes for rocky shorelines. Some state park beaches charge a vehicle entry fee ($5-$15), so bring cash. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me