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 similar 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 checklist 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 yr after yr, leaving St. Petersburg within the mud.

Don’t get us unsuitable — many individuals trip right here. However, there is no denying it must be talked about with different Florida beauts, similar to Destin and the like.

St. Pete boasts big-city perks and postcard seashores with out the trouble 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 e book a deep-sea tour, as not proudly owning a ship right here is like residing in Manhattan with no MetroCard.

If you are in search of 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 file, 2024’s highly effective hurricanes left their mark on the area, however there is no purpose 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 welcoming waterways to discover by boat, if there’s one declare to fame, it is the attractive pink pastel Vinoy hotel, celebrating its one hundredth 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 wager there can be centennial celebrations and potential packages to attain an excellent deal.

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

Speaking of meals, and one thing you may 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.

Forget Tampa! Fly Directly Into St. Pete For Cheap

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

Perhaps America’s trendiest funds 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 realize 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 which you could snag a cheap flight.

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

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

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based mostly in San Diego has visited 36 international locations and written over 1000 articles with a concentrate on sharing his personal journey experiences and shining a lightweight on lesser-known gems.