Wild Escapes is a WMJ series where we feature destinations based on their outdoor activities, art, culture, food and most importantly, their quality of and access to wildlife and natural environments. These destination guides are written and curated by storytellers and media makers who plan their travel around being in the great outdoors.
ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA is an incredible destination for those eager to escape and adventure into the beach, bay, or trail while enjoying a piña colada, watching an epic Florida sunset, eating a great meal, or taking in some local art. Reader beware, however, as I am biased having lived in St. Pete for the past couple of years. In this guide I want to share some of my nature spots, favorite places, and the reason why I call St Pete home.
On the central/southern gulf coast of FL, also known as the Sunshine Coast, St. Pete is a great destination for nature lovers who like the sun and good times. The suburbs and strip malls are alive and well, but if you look closely you’ll find scores of wild, natural habitat, amazing biodiversity, weather that’s great year-round (though October – May is particularly spectacular), and only an occasional “Florida man” that might cross your path. St. Pete is one of the more progressive and inclusive cities in FL, with a thriving LGBT+ community, artist enclaves and, of course, naturalists, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts.
While impossible to list them all, some of the more notable critters you can come to expect here in St. Pete include manatee, bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, great blue herons, little blue and tricolor herons, green herons, night herons, and all the herons in between…oh yeah and alligators, as well as a whole host of other amazing marine life and migratory birds. To say the least, you can have your modern-day conveniences of Trader Joes, Starbucks and Target, while you paddle in the morning with baby dolphins and watch a rookery come to life with nesting birds at sunset, all in the same day!
If you’re looking for a fun and nature-filled getaway, St. Petersburg, FL should be high up on your list of destinations to visit.
Finding Nature & Wildlife
The reason many live in and visit St. Petersburg, Florida, is to have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sun, saltwater, and wild natural habitat. Here are some lesser known destinations and activities that I value deeply and highly recommend you engage in while you’re here in St. Petersburg.
Sawgrass Lake Park
If you’re making the trip to St. Pete for a nature excursion, photo/film shoot, or other creative wildlife seeking endeavors, you likely have the more popular Weedon Island Preserve and Boyd Hill Nature Preserve on your list of “must visit nature parks” (and these are absolutely worth a visit). However, Sawgrass Lake Park, though lesser-known that the other two parks, is one of the last remaining natural habitats in all of St. Pete. It’s 400 acres in size and allows visitors to walk through one of the largest maple swamps on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Surrounded by pine and palm trees, hardwood forests, a lake, and canals, it is home to American alligators and a wide diversity of unique flora and fauna. Keep an eye open for gopher tortoise, sneaky raccoons, and the occasional black racer snake, as well as the always active butterfly garden.
Coffee Pot Bayou
Exclusive to St. Petersburg, Florida, and located in the heart of downtown, is Coffee Pot Bayou, a waterfront community and perfect place for morning walks, paddle boarding, and kayaking. Here you’ll spot manatees, dolphins, and osprey, just to name a handful of the variety of species frequenting the area. Don’t miss “Bird Island” as the locals call it, which is an important rookery for the Bay’s bird population. Throughout the year cormorants, anhingas, pelicans, and various herons seek shelter, nest, and inhabit the island. To make planning your itinerary a little easier, consider booking your tour through Doo’s Amazing Tours. They offer all the gear required, will take you on a tour of the Bayou, and will help point out all of the wildlife so you don’t miss a single one.
Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is one of the largest and most popular bird-watching destinations in the United States and is part of the Florida Birding Trail West Region. If you’re a birder, Fort De Soto is a must-see. Over 330 species of birds have been spotted here and you’re guaranteed to have some awesome sightings. During the spring and fall migrations, many of the migratory birds traveling through the Yucatán Peninsula will rest and recharge at Fort De Soto Park after crossing the Gulf of Mexico. With nearly 3 miles of sandy beaches and several interconnected islands of differing landscapes, including upland forested habitats, Fort De Soto Park won’t disappoint. Check out the Fort De Soto Park e-Bird Hotspot so you know where to start.
Crystal River
Ever dreamed of swimming with manatees? Crystal River, approximately 1.5 hours north of St. Pete, is the only place in North America where you can swim with these gentle creatures. Guides remind you to be respectful and keep your distance to preserve this natural community of friendly giants. In the winter months it is highly likely you will see multiple manatees, including calves. They are curious, voracious eaters, much bigger than you expect and a joy to see cruising effortlessly in their watery world.
Tips from the author:
- Book your trip with Birds Underwater. Friendly and knowledgeable staff will lead you to the manatee aggregates.
- Visit in the Winter months and take the early morning tour! Yes, it is very early – but this is when the manatees are most active and curious. Don’t be surprised if they approach you and want to investigate (but remember, not to touch).
- Refer to the US Fish & Wildlife Service Manatee Protection Area map
Conservation & Learning Opportunities
Learn, educate, and participate in conservation and exploratory opportunities while in St. Petersburg. Although we’ve had some environmental challenges, we have a history of protecting and restoring our natural habitats. Below are two organizations that you should definitely check out during your visit.
St. Petersburg Audubon Society
SPAS is a non-profit organization that aims to protect and restore natural ecosystems, for both birds and for other wildlife. Accomplished through responsible activism and public education, SPAS offers several opportunities, trips, and events to raise awareness, fundraise, and educate.
Activities include a guided bird walk at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, along with other special events, guest speakers, and field trips. For more information on the SPAS and how you can get involved, visit: www.stpeteaudubon.org
Tampa Bay Watch
Tampa Bay Watch is a dedicated nonprofit organization with the passionate aim to protect and restore the Tampa Bay estuary through scientific and educational programs.
Looking to learn and get involved? Visit the super cool and interactive Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center on the St. Pete Pier and attend one of their educational and entertaining Eco Tours. Day tours include fish identification trawls, dolphin sightings, bird watching, and bay cruises. For more information about the Tampa Bay Watch or book a ticket, visit: tbwdiscoverycenter.org
Art Inspired by Nature
For tourists, art connoisseurs, and history buffs, St. Petersburg offers some incredible galleries, exhibits, and museums, with an innate focus on nature and wildlife, among other rotating curations. Below are a couple of curated art experiences that you should definitely check out, appreciate and support.
The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art
Providing inspirational experiences of human connection and transformation through art sculptures, paintings, and hand-crafted jewelry and textiles, The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art is a magnificent 26,000 square foot gallery. If you’re looking to become one with your artistic self, or you’re simply eager to explore the rich American West and wildlife culture of the world and Florida, this museum is for you. When you first walk in, it feels like you’re stepping into a sacred spa in the Southwest US, and from there, each corridor you pass through you’re transported into rich worlds where art and nature overcome all senses.
Florida Craft Art
A statewide nonprofit organization, Florida CraftArt has the mission of supporting local Floridian artists by providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and promote their message through art.
Through community engagement, exhibitions, and tours, Florida CraftArt hopes to grow the creative economy of the state of Florida and empower local artists. Largely influenced by Florida’s wildlife and natural habitats, Florida Craft Art’s curated exhibitions are an inspiring collection of eye candy that you can’t find anywhere else.
Places to Shop: Outdoor Gear & Threads
As mentioned earlier, St. Petersburg is the perfect destination for those who enjoy city life for all the shopping, entertainment, and lively action, but also seek adventure into the wild. For the outdoor gear junkies or shoppers of the group, below are a few places to check out for him, her, and everyone.
Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure
In operation since 1946, Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure offers premier Tampa Bay outdoor gear for all your exploration needs. This family-owned and operated business isn’t like your typical big-box store. Instead, you can expect great service, great selection and the coolest parking lot in the world – you’d swear you were pulling into a campground. I’ve heard of agro-forestry…now this is a good example of agro-parking-lot. Gear up for your paddle board at the springs, a day of fly fishing, hiking and camping or scuba diving. This outdoor shop is my favorite, hands down. With its own lake in the backyard for product testing, Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure will get you prepared and excited for whatever wild trip you have planned.
Matter of Fact – For Him
Matter of Fact is a curated men’s shop offering an abundant apparel selection, from board shorts to modern tropical print shirts – trust me, I’ve amassed a small collection! Matter of Fact fills a big hole in St Pete when it comes to men’s clothing. Come for the clothes, stay for the whisky tastings. Or just ask for a beer, if they don’t offer you one when you come in.
Ashe Couture Boutique – For Her
Ashe Couture Boutique is a women’s clothing store ideal for your tropical outfit needs. Whether you need a suit for beach day, sun hat for a hike or something cool for Sunday’s boozy brunch, this women’s boutique has you covered (endorsed by my wife). They also carry sunscreen, candles and other gift items if you are looking to bring back a non-cheesy tropical-inspired gift.
Drink, Eat & Drink Some More
For the Foodies, St. Pete has no shortage of stellar places to eat and drink. From locally caught seafood to authentic Mexican cuisine, there’s an option for every palate. Below are three of my recommendations on Central Avenue for you to check out.
Trophy Fish
They say that those who are born and raised in St. Petersburg have saltwater running through their veins. St. Pete is a seafood paradise. If you want to get a taste of local seafood, Trophy Fish / Fish House is the restaurant for you. There’s always a fresh catch of the day. Try the fresh catch tacos but always start with the fish nuggets. It’s all outdoor seating, so you can enjoy people watching and pair it with a picturesque cocktail. Surrounded by royal palms, autograph plants, and shell floors, you’d swear you were in the Bahamas.
2060 Central Avenue (map it)
Casita Taqueria
Voted “Best of the Bay” four years in a row, Casita Taqueria is a staple in St. Pete’s cuisine community, offering only the most authentic Mexican street tacos made with fresh and quality ingredients. If you decide to visit (and you totally should), order the fish tacos and the special taco of the day. Pair it with a Beach Blonde Ale made by 3 Daughters Brewing (a local brewery) and you’ve got yourself the makings of a great Taco Tuesday.
2663 Central Avenue (map it)
Green Bench Brewing Company
Green Bench is one of many great local breweries in St. Pete, specializing in IPAs and ales and serving in both the taproom and large astroturf beer garden outfitted with lounge chairs and benches for an afternoon catching up with friends. Check out their newest special on tap, or visit their sister cider-forward tasting room next door.
1133 Baum Ave N (map it)
Places to Stay & Recharge
As for places to stay, you’ll have no problem finding a resort, retreat, or campsite to settle in for the duration of your visit. With hotels, motels, and AirBnb’s at your fingertips, you’ll have your pick of comfort and convenience. Whatever you have planned during the day – hiking, birding, kayaking, paddle boarding…here are some comfortable places to rest at night.
Private Guest House Near Beach
Centrally located, this Private Guest House (Airbnb) tucked away in a private pool-house near the beach sleeps four and is a nice location for those hoping to be near all of the downtown action and close to nature. Within a three-mile radius are several beautiful beaches, vibrant restaurants, bars, and shopping.
Treasure Island Surf Shack
Located in beautiful Sunset Beach, this treasure island Surf Shack (Airbnb) is Bali-inspired and provides all of the amenities you could need and more for your visit here to St. Petersburg, FL. Just minutes away from sandy beaches, bars, and craft breweries, this stay is perfect for a vacation getaway.
Price: $$
The Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club
Maybe you desire the luxury of downtown waterfront life with the accompaniment of a golf course, pool and modern amenities, then the Vinoy Renaissance Resort is what you’ll need. Great dining, golfing, sophisticated rooms and luxury suites, what more could you need? How about nature? Right out in front is a 3-mile park along the waterfront. You are practically guaranteed to see a dolphin pod hunting, a family of osprey fishing or a manatee and calf casually cruising into the sunset.
Price: $$$
Explore the map
Thanks for coming along for the tour of my current hometown, where I invite you to come visit and stay and play in the outdoors, downtown and enjoy all that St. Petersburg, FL has to offer!
*In addition to all of the info above, check out Visit St Pete/Clearwater calendar of events for more ideas for your trip to the Sunshine Coast of Florida!
