The Florida Beaches Near Tampa That Just Ranked Among America’s Best This Summer

After analyzing 100 of the largest metro areas in the U.S., WalletHub recently ranked the cheapest, most easily accessible destinations for travel this summer. Among the best was the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Florida Metro Area, based on everything from the cost of dining and attractions to the cheapest flights. 

Combining convenient access and affordability with a wide range of activities and attractions, this region of Florida is perfect for families and travelers of all types seeking a more budget-friendly beach vacation. Not only are there glistening powdery white sands lapped by turquoise water, but also outstanding opportunities for shelling.

Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked among the country’s best beaches with powdery white sands and calm, shallow, turquoise water. Enjoy a wealth of activities on and in the water, from dolphin watching boat tours to SUP, kayaking, parasailing, and swimming. Walking, cycling, and rollerblading along the beachfront promenade are all popular too. Pier 60 is the place to go after time on the sand, with street performers, a variety of enticing eateries, and nightly sunset celebrations. 

St. Pete is one of the prettiest stretches of white sand on the Gulf Coast. It has a relaxed vibe, ideal for families with kids and nearly every type of beachgoer. Swim, build sandcastles, or enjoy water sports like paddleboarding, snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing. It’s lined with beach bars and eclectic dining venues, perfect for an entire day of fun. Like Clearwater, the sunsets are glorious too.

Honeymoon Island State Park was recently named among the top 10 beaches in the U.S. for its incredibly natural beauty. Located on the barrier island connected to the mainland by the Dunedin Causeway, it’s just a short distance from Tampa. Ideal for a nature lover’s getaway, it boasts four miles of unspoiled beaches along the Gulf Coast and three miles of scenic trails winding through pine forests. It’s a prime spot for birdwatching, including ospreys and eagles. 

For an even more secluded experience, catch the pedestrian ferry from here to neighboring Caladesi Island, renowned for its stunning and tranquil shell-strewn shores. 

The area is home to a diverse array of accommodation, including budget-friendly national chain hotels, retro motels, vacation rental condos, and homes with full kitchens. If you want to be just steps from the sand while enjoying a wealth of amenities, consider beachfront resorts like the Sandpearl Resort in Clearwater or St. Pete’s Island Grand at TradeWinds.