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Sun-drenched days, powder-soft white sand and sunsets that stop clients in their tracks – St. Pete-Clearwater delivers luxury with a laid-back Gulf Coast soul. Stretching across 35 miles of award-winning beaches on Florida’s west coast, this is a destination where elegant beachfront resorts sit alongside a vibrant arts scene, world-class dining and an effortlessly stylish pace of life.

Just 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport and 90 minutes from Orlando, St. Pete-Clearwater is easy to reach yet feels wonderfully removed from the crowds. With year-round sunshine, iconic hotels and a growing reputation as one of Florida’s most desirable coastal escapes, it’s a standout choice for luxury-focused clients seeking both relaxation and enrichment.

Why St. Pete-Clearwater works for luxury travellers

From the lively energy of Clearwater Beach to the refined, classic charm of St. Pete Beach, the destination offers variety without compromise. Clients can spend mornings on immaculate, sugar-white sand, afternoons enjoying spa treatments or gallery hopping, and evenings dining waterfront as the sun dips into the Gulf.

Downtown St. Petersburg adds a cultural edge, home to striking architecture, renowned museums, colourful street murals and the iconic St. Pete Pier – a stylish waterfront hub with dining, green spaces and sweeping views. Add rooftop lounges, elegant beach bars and a fast-growing culinary scene, and you have a destination that feels indulgent yet unpretentious.

Where to stay: luxury hotels your clients will love

4* The Don CeSar – St. Pete Beach

Known affectionately as ‘The Pink Palace of St. Pete Beach’, this legendary beachfront resort blends historic glamour with modern luxury. Guests enjoy multiple pools, a full-service spa, beachfront dining and direct access to St. Pete Beach, all wrapped in timeless Gulf Coast elegance.

4* The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection – Downtown St. Pete

An iconic waterfront landmark offering refined luxury with a sense of heritage. Facilities include a marina, championship golf course, spa and upscale dining, with downtown St. Pete’s museums, pier and restaurants just steps away. This is the quintessential luxurious downtown St. Pete experience.

4* Opal Sands Resort – Clearwater Beach

A contemporary beachfront resort where every room boasts floor-to-ceiling Gulf views. Highlights include a luxury spa, rooftop-style pool and refined dining, all moments from Clearwater Beach and the nightly sunset celebrations at Pier 60. Booking a stay at the Opal Sands also gives guests access to the facilities at sister property, the Opal Sol Resort.

4* Wyndham Grand, Clearwater Beach – Clearwater Beach

Stylish and sophisticated, this full-service Gulf-front hotel features an elegant spa, infinity-style pool and multiple dining options. Perfectly positioned opposite the beach and near Pier 60, it suits clients who enjoy vibrant surroundings with premium comfort.

Beyond the beach: experiences that elevate the stay

Luxury in St. Pete-Clearwater goes far beyond the shoreline. Clients can explore world-class art collections, including the celebrated Dalí Museum, enjoy private boat charters along the coast, or follow the local craft beer trail featuring more than 40 independent breweries. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak through mangroves, paddleboard on calm Gulf waters or tee off at prestigious golf courses, while spa lovers are spoilt for choice with high-end wellness experiences.

Whether your clients want their escape to feel social and energetic or serene and restorative, St. Pete-Clearwater adapts effortlessly to their style.

Tips for Travel Agents

  • Position St. Pete-Clearwater as a luxury alternative or add on to Florida’s theme-park hubs, combining beach, culture and ease of access
  • Pair iconic resorts like The Don CeSar with cultural experiences in downtown St. Petersburg for a well-rounded itinerary
  • Highlight sunset-facing rooms and waterfront dining as key emotional selling points
  • Ideal for couples, celebratory trips and high-end fly-drive itineraries