Why St. Petersburg Florida Is a Top Yachting Destination

Updated August 20, 2025

4 min read

Why St. Petersburg Florida Is a Top Yachting Destination

St. Petersburg, Florida—often called The Sunshine City—is a vibrant, sun-soaked destination along Florida’s Gulf Coast that offers something for every boater. From award-winning beaches and a world-class arts scene to mouthwatering food and endless outdoor fun, this city is a must-visit stop on any yachting itinerary.

Whether you’re cruising in for the day or planning an extended stay, here’s why St. Petersburg is a top yachting destination.

Table of Contents

Sunshine, Beaches, & Beautiful Views: St. Petersburg, FL

St. Pete holds the record for the most consecutive days of sunshine—an incredible 768 days! That means plenty of clear skies to enjoy the coastline by boat. Some of the top beaches accessible by yacht include:

St. Pete Beach – Known for soft white sands and calm waters.
Treasure Island – A laid-back vibe with great spots for anchoring.
Sunset Beach – True to its name, it’s one of the best places to watch the sun dip below the horizon

Cruising along these beaches offers endless opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing on the water. It’s the perfect setting for unwinding with friends and family.

: St.Petersburg, FL

: Treasure Island

: Sunset Beach

A City Bursting with Art & Culture

St. Petersburg is one of Florida’s most creative cities. Home to six distinct art districts, more than 900 annual events, and world-class museums, there’s always something inspiring to see and do. Popular attractions include:

The Dali Museum – Showcasing the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s work outside Europe.
Museum of Fine Arts – Featuring art that spans 5,000 years of history.
Chihuly Collection – A dazzling display of colorful glass sculptures.
The Mahaffey Theater – Hosting live performances, concerts, and Broadway shows.

Whether you’re strolling downtown or catching an exhibit, the city’s vibrant arts scene adds richness to any visit.

: Dali Museum

: Museum of Fine Arts

: Dale Chihuly Museum

Foodie Finds Around Every Corner

St. Pete’s dining scene is just as diverse as its culture. You’ll find everything from casual seafood shacks to upscale eateries run by award-winning chefs. Some must-try spots include:

Parkshore Grill: Upscale steaks and seafood with fine wines, served indoors or on a spacious patio.
Guppy’s on the Beach – A favorite with locals for its beachfront vibes and rotating chef specials.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille: Laid-back spot for seafood with Caribbean flair, craft rum drinks, and live entertainment.
Brick & Mortar – Rustic, seasonal American cuisine in a cozy setting.
1200 Chophouse – Situated on St. Pete Beach, this restaurant is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks and intimate, upscale atmosphere.

Whether you’re dining dockside or exploring inland, the flavors of St. Pete never disappoint.

Nature, Parks, and Outdoor Adventure

If you’re looking to stretch your legs off the boat, St. Pete has no shortage of natural beauty to explore. The region’s warm climate and coastal location make it ideal for year-round outdoor activities. Here are some top inland stops:

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve – A 245-acre park perfect for walking trails and wildlife viewing.
Sunken Gardens – A century-old botanical garden filled with lush plants and peaceful paths.
Florida Botanical Gardens – A relaxing retreat that blends education with natural beauty.
Tropicana Field – Home of the Tampa Bay Rays. Catch a game in air-conditioned comfort!

With sunshine most days of the year, it’s always a good time to get outside.

: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

: Tropicana Field

: Sunken Gardens

Shopping for Every Style: St. Pete Yachting Destination

Need a little retail therapy? St. Petersburg has you covered with a mix of unique boutiques, galleries, and shopping centers:

John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk – A waterfront spot in nearby Madeira Beach, full of shops, eateries, and charm.
Sundial St. Pete – Downtown’s premier destination for upscale shopping and dining.
Central Arts District – A haven for local artists and shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind finds.

You can dock nearby and spend the afternoon strolling the streets, grabbing gifts, or picking up local artwork.

: John’s Pass Boardwalk

: Sun Dial Shopping Plaza

: Central Arts District

Fall in Love with the Lifestyle

After experiencing all that St. Pete has to offer, you might find yourself wanting more than just a visit. Whether you’re looking for the perfect yacht to match your cruising goals or planning to sell and upgrade to something newer or larger, our experienced team is ready to guide you. With over 55 years in the industry and a passion for boating, we make the process of buying or selling a yacht seamless—just like the waters of your favorite St. Petersburg yachting destination.
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