If you’re staying at a vacation rental near St. Pete Beach, Florida, you’ve landed in one of the best spots on the Gulf Coast for beach-hopping. From the historic white sands of Pass-A-Grille to the wide open shores of Treasure Island, there’s a beach for every mood within a short drive or walk of Isla del Sol.
Pass-A-Grille Beach — The Crown Jewel
Just a short walk over the Pinellas Bayway bridge from Isla del Sol, Pass-A-Grille is one of Florida’s most beloved beach communities. The southern tip of St. Pete Beach is home to calm, clear Gulf water, stunning sunsets, and a charming historic district with boutique shops and restaurants along 8th Avenue. Park on the street, grab an ice cream, and settle in for one of the best sunsets in Florida.
Why we love it: It’s walkable from Bahia 155. No beach chairs needed — just stroll across the bridge. The Don CeSar Hotel’s pink facade makes for iconic photos along the way.
St. Pete Beach — The Main Strip
St. Pete Beach runs along Gulf Boulevard and is the beating heart of beach activity in the area. Here you’ll find volleyball nets, beach rentals, jet ski outfitters, and dozens of tiki bars and waterfront restaurants. The sand is wide and the water is warm — perfect for families and groups of friends.
Corey Avenue, just a few blocks from the beach, is a lively street market area on Sunday mornings and home to local restaurants, art galleries, and coffee shops.
Treasure Island Beach
Head a few miles north on Gulf Blvd and you’ll reach Treasure Island — a wider, quieter beach that locals love for its relatively uncrowded shores. Sunset Beach at the northern tip of Treasure Island is particularly beautiful. The water here is calm and shallow, making it ideal for families with young children.
Fort De Soto Park — The Hidden Gem
About 20 minutes south of Isla del Sol, Fort De Soto Park is consistently rated one of the top beaches in the entire United States. The park spans five connected keys and includes two swimming beaches, a historic fort, kayak and canoe trails, and some of the best shelling on the Gulf Coast. It’s a full day adventure.
Pro tip: Go on a weekday morning to avoid the weekend crowds. Bring snorkeling gear — the water is remarkably clear near the North Beach.
Caladesi Island State Park
About 45 minutes north by car (plus a short ferry ride from Dunedin or Honeymoon Island), Caladesi Island is only accessible by boat, keeping it pristine and uncrowded. It’s regularly voted one of the best beaches in America. The mangrove kayak trail is spectacular. This is a great day trip if you want to see a truly wild Florida beach.
Getting There from Bahia 155
All of these beaches are easily accessible from our vacation rental on Isla del Sol. Pass-A-Grille is walkable. St. Pete Beach and Treasure Island are a 5-10 minute drive north on Gulf Blvd. Fort De Soto is about 20 minutes south, and Caladesi Island is about 50 minutes north.
We keep beach chairs, a rolling cooler, and beach towels right in the condo — everything you need to make every beach day effortless. See the full list of what’s included at Bahia 155.
Ready to plan your trip? Check availability on VRBO and start counting down the days.