Florida's Gulf Coast has long lured travelers with its sugar-sand beaches, soothing sunsets, and laid-back island vibe. But beyond the incredible stretches of coastline lies an array of memorable Florida attractions and theme parks packed with excitement and adventure. When staying at TradeWinds Island Resorts in St. Pete Beach, you'll be perfectly positioned to experience the best that this sunny, scenic region has to offer. Here are our picks for the area’s best can’t-miss exploits.
John's Pass Village & Boardwalk
This iconic turn-of-the-century village transports visitors to an "Old Florida" era with its colorful buildings, charming shops, and waterfront restaurants lining a quaint thoroughfare. Stroll through the Village Boardwalk, grab a bite of fresh grouper, and watch pelicans dive for fish from the 100-year-old turning bridge. Don't miss hopping on the free shuttle across the Intracoastal to experience Hubbard's Marina with its family-friendly tours!
12902 Village Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL 33708
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Star of the popular Dolphin Tale movies, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium provides an inspiring opportunity to view rescued dolphins, sea turtles, otters, stingrays, and more amazing sea creatures up close. The aquarium is home to Winter the dolphin, a courageous animal who overcame the loss of her tail to become a famous symbol of hope. Be sure to catch one of the aquarium’s informative educational presentations to learn from experts about marine life rehabilitation and environmental conservation.
249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Prepare for a wildly fun adventure at Busch Gardens, where you'll find thrilling roller coasters, thrill rides, and encounters with over 12,000 animals across 300 beautiful acres of gardens, exhibits, and shows. Ride the ultimate triple launch coaster Cheetah Hunt, be plunged 335 feet straight down on SheiKra, or experience a spine-chilling battle on Florida's first triple launch coaster Iron Gwazi. Then, head to the Serengeti Safari to spot zebras, elephants, and more roaming the plains. Thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike will find plenty of excitement here!
10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612
Shell Key Nature Preserve
For a serene escape to a stunning undeveloped barrier island, take the ferry from St. Pete Beach to Shell Key Preserve. As you disembark on the pristine shores, you'll be met with miles of sun-bleached beaches, rolling dunes, and a coastal habitat thriving with shorebirds, turtles, and other marine life. This preserved wilderness offers a perfect setting for swimming, shelling, picnicking, or simply relaxing in the solitude of nature.
8200 Bryan Dairy Road, Suite 200, Largo, FL 33777
Catapult Adventure Park
Prepare for a high-flying adventure you’ll treasure forever! This unique aerial attraction zone provides an adrenaline rush as you soar through the sky, ziplining across glistening waterways and lush tropical landscapes. With over 65 challenging elements incorporating balancing cables, climbing walls, and more, Catapult offers an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers of all ages. For a can't-miss St. Pete experience that gets your blood pumping, add Catapult Adventure Park to your vacation itinerary.
4460 66th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33709
TradeWinds Island Resort Waterpark
You don't even have to leave TradeWinds to make a splash and have fun in the sun! Located right here on-site, our own massive Gulf of Mexico water park features a three-story super-fast dual water slide, a kids’ splash zone, a hot tub, and plenty of pools to help guests stay cool. Little ones and big kids alike will delight in soaking up the rays while cooling off. Plus, there are seasonal activities, games, movies, and dive-in pool parties with entertainment aplenty!
Your Adventure Begins at TradeWinds Island Resorts
After heart-pounding roller coasters, flinging across ziplines, spotting unique wildlife, and splashing in pools and natural waterways, TradeWinds Island Resorts provides the perfect tropical escape to relax and recharge. With our beautiful beachfront location, well-appointed accommodations, great dining, and incredible amenities, we’re the ideal basecamp for your St. Pete Beach adventure. Start planning your “Just Let Go” getaway today!
