This Vibrant Beach City Named Florida’s Most Underrated Getaway For 2026

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You usually hear of vacationers jetting off to Tampa, however most of them do not base themselves within the metropolis itself.

Much 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.

But what about good ol’ “St. Pete” (as locals name it)?

Experts at Southern Living have revealed their insightful picks for 2026’s most underrated getaways unfold throughout the South from South Carolina to Mississippi.

But right here at Travel Off Path, we perceive Florida’s enchantment 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 record of goodies — the ever-sunny metropolis of St. Petersburg.

How In The World Is St. Pete Overlooked?

Practically 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.

Both of those seaside cities have been in a well-publicized duel for years, every incomes ‘prime seaside’ honors 12 months after 12 months, leaving St. Petersburg within the mud.

Don’t get us improper — many individuals trip right here. However, there isn’t any denying it needs 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 can go for a quiet retreat away from the city buzz, discover vibrant shores steps from seaside bars, and even ebook a deep-sea tour, as not proudly owning a ship right here is like dwelling in Manhattan with no MetroCard.

If you are looking for your subsequent seaside vacay, a go to to St. Pete ought to prime your 2026 wishlist, as this attractive metropolis is in some way nonetheless under-hyped.

For the report, 2024’s highly effective hurricanes left their mark on the area, however there isn’t any 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 Year Of Celebrations

If you are still unsure about selecting St. Pete over different sunny Florida locales, allow us to fill you in on why 2026 is especially engaging.

Besides gleaming white-sand seashores, laid-back vibes, and alluring waterways to discover by boat, if there’s one declare to fame, it is the attractive pink pastel Vinoy hotel, celebrating its a centesimal birthday.

This is Southwest’s Florida most bucket-list-worthy keep, the place U.S. Presidents vacationed throughout its heyday.

But this architectural marvel has stood the check of time, and you may guess there will likely be centennial celebrations and potential packages to attain an amazing deal.

Another cause to dog-ear your calendar (if folks nonetheless do this) is to be sure you time your journey proper for St. Pete’s ‘Savor’ meals and wine festival, sometimes held within the fall.

Speaking of meals, and one thing you may look ahead to earlier than subsequent fall, is the opening of town’s first food hall, anticipated to open on the flip of the calendar.

Forget Tampa! Fly Directly Into St. Pete For Cheap

Why take care of the chaos of big airports when you do not have to? Better but, why overpay?

Perhaps America’s trendiest finances airline (Allegiant) has an enormous presence at St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE).

One of 5 airports within the Southwest Florida area, many vacationers do not understand you may fly straight in given how main gamers like Delta, United, and Southwest do not fly right here.

Your solely 2 choices are Allegiant and Sun Country (solely providing seasonal service).

That stated, Allegiant flies to PIE from a whopping 60+ cities, so odds are in your favor that you could snag a cheap flight.

Plus, in case you do fly into St. Pete, you may rating a straightforward loophole to Clearwater if that is your ultimate vacation spot.

PIE affords the Grouper Airport Express, solely charging $8 for a direct journey to any location on Clearwater Beach, together with Marriott Sand Key and Sheraton Sand Key.