You usually hear of vacationers jetting off to Tampa, however most of them do not base themselves within the metropolis itself.
Very like Los Angeles, the place it appears about 200 separate cities converge to name themselves “LA”, Tampa is one and the identical on a far lesser scale, made up of quite a few sought-after paradises equivalent to Clearwater and Siesta Key.
However what about good ol’ “St. Pete” (as locals name it)?
Specialists at Southern Living have revealed their insightful picks for 2026’s most underrated getaways unfold throughout the South from South Carolina to Mississippi.
However right here at Travel Off Path, we perceive Florida’s attraction with year-round Vitamin D ready at a second’s discover.
So, with out additional ado, we have plucked the Sunshine State’s most underrated 2026 vacation spot from their jam-packed listing of goodies — the ever-sunny metropolis of St. Petersburg.
How In The World Is St. Pete Ignored?
Virtually hidden in plain sight, as you cross the scenic Howard Frankland Bridge from Tampa (TPA) and head both north to Clearwater or South to Siesta Key, you whizz by St. Pete with out realizing how a lot of a stunner it’s.
Each of those seaside cities have been in a well-publicized duel for years, every incomes ‘high seaside’ honors 12 months after 12 months, leaving St. Petersburg within the mud.
Do not get us mistaken — many individuals trip right here. Nevertheless, there is no denying it ought to be talked about with different Florida beauts, equivalent to Destin and the like.
St. Pete boasts big-city perks and postcard seashores with out the effort of Florida’s most overcrowded coastal hotspots.
You possibly can go for a quiet retreat away from the city buzz, discover vibrant shores steps from seaside bars, and even e book a deep-sea tour, as not proudly owning a ship right here is like residing in Manhattan with no MetroCard.
For those who’re looking for your subsequent seaside vacay, a go to to St. Pete ought to high your 2026 wishlist, as this beautiful metropolis is in some way nonetheless under-hyped.
For the document, 2024’s highly effective hurricanes left their mark on the area, however there is no cause to carry off reserving a visit, as even ravaged Fort Myers, an hour and a half away, has made a exceptional restoration.
2026: A 12 months Of Celebrations
For those who’re nonetheless unsure about selecting St. Pete over different sunny Florida locales, allow us to fill you in on why 2026 is especially attractive.
Moreover gleaming white-sand seashores, laid-back vibes, and welcoming waterways to discover by boat, if there’s one declare to fame, it is the beautiful pink pastel Vinoy hotel, celebrating its a centesimal birthday.
That is Southwest’s Florida most bucket-list-worthy keep, the place U.S. Presidents vacationed throughout its heyday.
However this architectural marvel has stood the check of time, and you’ll guess there will likely be centennial celebrations and potential packages to attain a fantastic deal.
One more reason to dog-ear your calendar (if individuals nonetheless do this) is to ensure you time your journey proper for St. Pete’s ‘Savor’ meals and wine festival, usually held within the fall.
Talking of meals, and one thing you possibly can stay up for earlier than subsequent fall, is the opening of town’s first food hall, anticipated to open on the flip of the calendar.
Overlook Tampa! Fly Immediately Into St. Pete For Low-cost
Why cope with the chaos of big airports when you do not have to? Higher but, why overpay?
Maybe America’s trendiest price range airline (Allegiant) has an enormous presence at St. Pete–Clearwater Worldwide Airport (PIE).
Considered one of 5 airports within the Southwest Florida area, many vacationers do not understand you possibly can fly straight in given how main gamers like Delta, United, and Southwest do not fly right here.
Your solely 2 choices are Allegiant and Solar Nation (solely providing seasonal service).
That mentioned, Allegiant flies to PIE from a whopping 60+ cities, so odds are in your favor you can snag a cheap flight.
Plus, in case you do fly into St. Pete, you possibly can rating a simple loophole to Clearwater if that is your closing vacation spot.
PIE provides the Grouper Airport Express, solely charging $8 for a direct journey to any location on Clearwater Seaside, together with Marriott Sand Key and Sheraton Sand Key.
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