St. Pete Beach Access — Attraction in Saint Pete Beach

Since the hotels on St Pete Beach are so stingy sharing their beachfront it leaves the public the only alternative of going to the public access part way on the Eastern side of St Pete Beach. Basically as you're heading east and you pass all the major hotels do you just want to look for the sign and then the light waiting to turn into the parking lot for the beach access you'll be making a right. It's across the street from a Publix shopping center and a Chase Bank along the other side of the street. I hope some of the pictures I have included will be helpful in locating the beach access and how and where to park. Basically when you make the right of the light all you have is parking spaces that are numbered. Whatever spot you park and remember the number because when you get up to the Machine by the restrooms you will need to enter the number and pay for how long you want to stay there. The machines can be difficult at times and it might take two or three tries to get your time registered for your spot but eventually it will work. Once you pay for your time for your spot you walk down the boardwalk and before you know it you're on the beach. You can rent beach umbrellas or shaded chair area once you get to the beach. There's usually vendors walking around with water ice cream and other Foods in case you get hungry. Or you can just send somebody across the street from the parking lot to the Chick-fil-A or Supermarket to get some food. By the Publix Shopping Center there's at least three or four shops for swimwear stuff if you forgot anything from sunglasses two towels and tanning lotions so don't think you have to run back to where you came from to get something you forgot because it's right there. If you don't live in Florida enjoy your vacation time here. If you do live here you're probably sick of the beach but it's still fun...

St. Petersburg Beach in Florida is a stunning destination renowned for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. The beach offers ample space, ensuring that all visitors can find their own perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sun. While parking can be restricted and sometimes challenging, the effort is well worth it. One of the highlights of St. Petersburg Beach is the breathtaking sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico, providing a picturesque end to a perfect day. Whether you're looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply take in the natural beauty, St. Petersburg Beach is a must-visit gem on Florida's Gulf Coast.

St. Petersburg Beach in Florida not only boasts stunning white sands and clear waters, but it also offers an array of fantastic dining options to suit all tastes. From casual beachside cafes to upscale seafood restaurants, there is something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood, gourmet burgers, and tropical cocktails just steps away from the beach. Many eateries offer outdoor seating with beautiful views of the Gulf, enhancing the dining experience. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, the diverse culinary scene at St. Petersburg Beach is sure to...

The Good: The beach itself is lovely—clean sand, clear water, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or a relaxing stroll. Scenic views and well-maintained shoreline make it a spot worth visiting for nature lovers.

The Bad: Parking Costs: At $4/hour, parking fees feel steep compared to other local beaches. While convenient, the price adds up quickly, especially for longer visits. Restroom Conditions: Disappointingly filthy. The restrooms were littered, smelled strongly of neglect, and appeared uncleaned for hours (or days). For a paid-access beach, this level of upkeep is unacceptable and a major downside.

Final Thoughts: The beach’s natural beauty is overshadowed by poor management decisions. Charging premium parking rates while failing to maintain basic facilities like restrooms feels unfair to visitors. If you’re willing to pay the parking fee, come prepared (e.g., use restrooms elsewhere, bring hand sanitizer).

Recommendation: Visit for the scenery, but urge management to either lower parking costs or allocate funds toward proper restroom maintenance. Until then, temper your expectations if cleanliness...