Local guide
The best beaches on the Gulf Coast
Four neighboring beaches, four different moods. Here's how to choose the right stretch of sand for your trip.
The barrier islands west of St. Petersburg hold some of the best beaches in the United States — soft white quartz sand, warm, calm Gulf water and famous sunsets. All four of our beach towns sit within a few minutes of one another, so many guests explore several in a single stay. Here's the quick guide.
Treasure Island
Wide sands & laid-back Gulf charm
Treasure Island is a classic Gulf-Coast beach town on a barrier island just west of St. Petersburg. Three miles of wide, sugar-white sand, easy public access and a relaxed, family-friendly pace make it one of the most popular — yet still unhurried — beaches in Tampa Bay. Most of our homes are here — from waterfront retreats on the bay side to designer houses steps from the sand.
Madeira Beach
Marinas, sunsets & fresh Gulf seafood
Madeira Beach — 'Mad Beach' to locals — sits just north of Treasure Island and is best known for John's Pass Village & Boardwalk, a working waterfront of seafood restaurants, boat charters and dolphin cruises. It pairs a lively marina scene with a wide, easy beach, making it a great base for guests who want both the water and the walkable action.
Sunset Beach
Quiet, tucked-away & endlessly blue
Sunset Beach is the quiet southern tip of Treasure Island — a tucked-away neighborhood of low-key streets, calmer water and, true to its name, some of the best sunsets on the Gulf. It's the spot guests choose when they want the beach without the crowds, yet still within minutes of John's Pass and St. Pete. Several of our finest waterfront homes sit right here.
Good to know
Best beaches — FAQ
What is the best beach near St. Petersburg, Florida?+
St. Pete Beach is regularly ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. for its soft white sand and lively scene. For a quieter alternative, Sunset Beach and Treasure Island offer the same beautiful Gulf water with fewer crowds.
Which Gulf Coast beach is best for families?+
Treasure Island — the beach is wide and gently sloping, the water is calm, and the town is quiet and easy to get around. Sunset Beach is another great low-key choice for families.
Are the beaches sandy or rocky?+
Sandy — this coast is known for soft, white quartz sand and shallow, warm, calm Gulf water, which is why it's so popular with families.
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