St. Petersburg, Florida Vacation Rentals
Explore 1200+ rental homes and villas in St. Petersburg, Florida for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Air Condition Homes, Best Affordable Homes and Great for Groups. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $59 per night with homes containing as many as 9 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
Types of vacation rentals in St. Petersburg
Where to stay in St. Petersburg
Booking a vacation rental in St. Petersburg, Florida?
Here are some things to know to support your visit:
St. Petersburg Overview
Nestled on the sun-kissed shores of Florida's Gulf Coast, St. Petersburg, affectionately known as St. Pete, is a haven where the allure of beachside living meets the sophistication of an art-infused urban oasis. Imagine waking up in your own private home, a tranquil retreat where you can sip your morning coffee by the poolside, your faithful pet by your side in one of the many pet-friendly accommodations available in this charming city.
St. Pete's allure is magnified by its famous attractions, with the Salvador Dalí Museum taking center stage. This architectural marvel, with its stunning glass edifice, is home to an unrivaled collection of Dalí's works, beckoning art lovers to immerse themselves in the surreal. Not far behind in cultural prominence, the Museum of Fine Arts presents a rich tapestry of artistic endeavors, from the ancient to the avant-garde.
The city's heartbeat is felt along the vibrant streets of downtown St. Pete, where Central Avenue is a mosaic of boutique shops, gourmet eateries, and lively bars. The culinary landscape here is a testament to the city's love affair with the sea, offering an array of fresh, locally-sourced seafood that tantalizes the palate.
For those with a penchant for the great outdoors, St. Pete does not disappoint. The sprawling Fort De Soto Park is a natural playground, boasting sugar-sand beaches, lush camping grounds, and echoes of history within its preserved fortifications. Meanwhile, Vinoy Park offers a more cosmopolitan green space, with its waterfront vistas setting the stage for community festivals and music-filled nights.
The city's soul is painted on its very walls, with vibrant murals transforming the streets into a public gallery of urban art. The Warehouse Arts District further cements St. Pete's reputation as a cultural hub, where once-abandoned warehouses now pulse with the creative energy of studios and galleries.
But perhaps the true essence of St. Pete is best experienced through its waterfront and beaches. Homes with private pools are a common luxury, offering a refreshing escape under the Florida sun. The pristine shores of St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach beckon with their crystalline waters and powdery sands, inviting you to indulge in the simple pleasures of sunbathing, swimming, or embarking on a myriad of water sports. As the day wanes, the horizon is set ablaze with the fiery hues of the Gulf Coast's iconic sunsets.
St. Pete's calendar is dotted with cultural celebrations, from the international allure of the St. Petersburg Film Festival to the local charm of the Mainsail Art Festival, each event adding a layer of vibrancy to the city's already dynamic atmosphere.
In essence, St. Petersburg, Florida, is a destination that seamlessly weaves together the threads of cultural richness, outdoor splendor, and the intimate luxury of a home-away-from-home. It's a place where every traveler can find their slice of paradise, a coastal gem that promises an unforgettable escape.
Cultural Attractions in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, affectionately known as St. Pete, is a cultural gem on the Gulf Coast that offers a wealth of experiences for those who revel in the arts, history, and local customs. With its sunny skies, vibrant arts scene, and rich historical context, St. Pete is a haven for cultural enthusiasts.
Begin your exploration at the renowned Salvador Dalí Museum, which houses the largest collection of Dalí's works outside of Europe. The museum's stunning glass architecture is a work of art in itself, and the labyrinthine galleries within offer a surreal journey through the artist's imaginative oeuvre.
For a deep dive into local history, visit the St. Petersburg Museum of History, where exhibits chronicle the city's growth from a pioneer settlement to a modern urban center. The museum also features the Flight One Gallery, dedicated to the world's first scheduled commercial airline service, which took off from St. Pete.
Art aficionados will find their bliss wandering the Central Arts District, where murals adorn building facades, creating an open-air gallery that reflects the city's creative spirit. Galleries like the Morean Arts Center and the Chihuly Collection present a diverse array of visual art, from glass sculptures to contemporary paintings.
Live music thrives in St. Pete, with venues like the Mahaffey Theater hosting performances ranging from classical orchestras to modern bands. The city's jazz scene is particularly vibrant, with intimate venues like The Palladium offering a cozy atmosphere for enjoying live performances.
St. Pete's local customs are best experienced during its numerous festivals and events. The Mainsail Art Festival, one of the country's premier fine arts events, showcases hundreds of artists from around the globe. Meanwhile, the St. Pete Pride Parade and Festival is Florida's largest LGBTQ+ pride celebration, reflecting the city's inclusive and diverse culture.
For a taste of local culinary arts, venture to the Edge District, where restaurants and craft breweries offer a fusion of flavors that highlight the region's gastronomic diversity. Here, you can savor fresh seafood, sample craft beers, and enjoy the laid-back ambiance that defines St. Pete's dining scene.
St. Petersburg's cultural offerings are as abundant as its sunshine. With a rich tapestry of museums, galleries, historic sites, and live music venues, the city invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world where the arts and history come alive against the backdrop of Florida's stunning Gulf Coast.
Family friendly activities in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, is a sun-soaked paradise that offers a treasure trove of activities for families traveling with children. From its beautiful beaches to its engaging museums, there's something to captivate the imagination of every child.
Begin your adventure at the Great Explorations Children's Museum, where interactive exhibits allow kids to role-play various careers, learn about the human body, and engage in creative play. This hands-on museum is designed to stimulate learning and curiosity in a fun environment.
For animal-loving kids, the Sunken Gardens is a 100-year-old botanical paradise that also features a flock of flamingos, among other wildlife. It's a great place for children to learn about tropical plants and enjoy the beauty of nature. The nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the dolphin from the "Dolphin Tale" movies, is also a hit with families. Here, children can learn about marine life rescue and rehabilitation.
No trip to St. Petersburg would be complete without a visit to the beach. The area boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with Fort De Soto Park being a family favorite. The park has a large playground, picnic areas, and calm waters perfect for young swimmers. Plus, the historic fort offers a glimpse into the past and is fun to explore.
For a bit of culture, take the kids to the Morean Arts Center, where they can see glassblowing demonstrations or even take a family-friendly art class. The center's Glass Studio & Hot Shop is a unique experience where you can watch artists craft incredible glass art before your eyes.
If your children are into sports or just need to burn off some energy, head to Tropicana Field to catch a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game. The stadium is kid-friendly, offering a touch tank where children can interact with rays and a playground area.
For a day of science and discovery, the nearby MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) in Tampa provides interactive exhibits, including a ropes course and a planetarium, that are both educational and entertaining.
St. Petersburg's blend of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and family-oriented activities make it an ideal destination for those traveling with children. Every day promises a new adventure, whether it's learning about sea creatures, exploring a tropical oasis, or simply building sandcastles on the beach.
Outdoor activities in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a wealth of natural wonders and activities that cater to those who seek to connect with the environment. The city, nestled on the Gulf Coast, is surrounded by water, making it a prime destination for a variety of aquatic adventures.
Fort De Soto Park is a standout attraction, with its beautiful beaches, calm waters, and rich history. Spanning five interconnected islands, this park offers more than seven miles of waterfront, including three miles of white sandy beach. It's an ideal spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The park also has a historic fort and museum, nature trails, and abundant wildlife, including the chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles.
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is another gem for nature lovers. This 245-acre park features a variety of ecosystems, from hardwood hammocks to pine flatwoods and swampy wetlands. It's a fantastic place for bird-watching, with boardwalks and observation platforms that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The preserve also offers guided tours and educational programs to enhance your experience.
For those who enjoy botanical beauty, the Sunken Gardens provide a lush, tropical escape. Over 100 years old, this garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. Stroll through the winding paths, admire cascading waterfalls, and relax in this serene setting.
The Pinellas Trail, a 38-mile trail that stretches from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs, is perfect for cyclists, joggers, and walkers. The trail offers a safe and scenic route through various landscapes, including urban areas, coastal regions, and parks.
Waterfront parks are abundant in St. Petersburg, and they offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Tampa Bay. North Shore Park, for example, is a favorite for its open green spaces, beach access, and outdoor fitness equipment.
For a truly unique experience, take a guided kayak tour through the mangrove tunnels of Weedon Island Preserve. This ecological gem provides a chance to explore the rich marine life and bird species that inhabit the area.
Lastly, don't miss the opportunity to sail into the sunset on a charter boat or join a deep-sea fishing expedition to catch a glimpse of the Gulf's bountiful marine life.
In St. Petersburg, the blend of urban amenities and natural beauty creates an outdoor playground that is sure to delight any nature enthusiast. Whether you're looking to relax on a pristine beach, explore a nature preserve, or embark on a water-based adventure, St. Petersburg offers an array of experiences that bring you closer to nature's wonders.
Weather in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, is a destination that offers a subtropical climate with plenty of sunshine year-round, making it an attractive spot for those seeking warm weather and outdoor activities. The city's weather is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, drier winters, with a notable rainy season in the summer months.
The summer months, from June to August, are the hottest, with average high temperatures hovering around the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-34°C). Humidity is high during this time, which can make the heat feel more intense. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, contributing to the city's annual rainfall. Despite the heat, the Gulf breezes can provide some relief, especially near the coast.
The winter months, from December to February, are much milder with average high temperatures in the upper 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 20-24°C). Lows can drop to the 50s Fahrenheit (around 10-15°C), but it's rare for temperatures to fall near freezing. Snow is virtually unheard of in St. Petersburg, making it a haven for those looking to escape colder climates.
Spring, from March to May, and fall, from September to November, are considered the most pleasant times to visit St. Petersburg. During these seasons, temperatures are warm but not excessively hot, typically ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-29°C). Humidity is lower, and there is less rainfall compared to the summer months. These conditions are ideal for enjoying the city's beautiful beaches, parks, and outdoor festivals.
The rainy season peaks from June to September, with the highest rainfall typically in August. While rain is frequent during this period, it often comes in quick, heavy downpours, usually in the afternoon, followed by sunshine.
The most popular weather conditions are prevalent in the spring and fall when the climate is especially pleasant. These times of the year offer a perfect balance for visitors, with comfortable temperatures and lower chances of rain, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions, such as the Salvador Dali Museum, Fort De Soto Park, and the Sunken Gardens, as well as engaging in water sports and beach activities.
Overall, St. Petersburg's climate is one of its biggest draws, with an average of 361 days of sunshine per year, earning it the nickname "The Sunshine City." Whether you're looking to bask in the summer sun or enjoy the mild winter, St. Petersburg offers a welcoming climate for travelers at any time of the year.
Transportation in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, known for its beautiful beaches, thriving arts scene, and pleasant weather, offers a variety of transportation options for visitors. Most travelers arrive at either St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, which caters to domestic flights, or Tampa International Airport, a larger hub just across Tampa Bay with a broader range of domestic and international flights. From both airports, visitors can take taxis, shuttles, or use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft to reach their final destination in St. Petersburg.
For those who prefer to travel by sea, the city is accessible by private boat with several marinas available for docking. While there is no direct train service to St. Petersburg, nearby Tampa is served by Amtrak, and travelers can transfer to bus services or other ground transportation to continue their journey to St. Petersburg.
Once in St. Petersburg, getting around is convenient with a variety of options. The city's public transportation system, operated by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), offers extensive bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas. For a unique experience, the Downtown Looper Trolley service provides a charming and free way to explore the downtown area, including popular spots like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Dali Museum.
For those who prefer to drive, car rentals are available, and St. Petersburg's grid layout makes navigation straightforward. However, parking can be limited in popular areas, especially during peak tourist seasons or special events. Bicycling is also a popular mode of transportation, with the city offering bike lanes and trails, and bike-sharing programs like Coast Bike Share providing a convenient option for short trips.
St. Petersburg is moderately walkable, especially in the downtown area where attractions, restaurants, shops, and galleries are clustered together. The waterfront parks and the Central Avenue district are particularly pedestrian-friendly and offer a pleasant walking experience. However, to fully explore the wider city and visit attractions further afield, such as Fort De Soto Park or the Sunken Gardens, having access to a car or using public transportation is recommended.
In conclusion, St. Petersburg provides a range of transportation options that cater to different preferences, ensuring that visitors can easily navigate the city and enjoy all that it has to offer. Whether you're exploring the downtown area on foot, cycling along the Pinellas Trail, or taking a bus to the beach, St. Petersburg is equipped to make your travels comfortable and convenient.