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You often hear of travelers jetting off to Tampa, but most of them don’t base themselves in the city itself.
Much like Los Angeles, where it seems about 200 separate towns converge to call themselves “LA”, Tampa is one and the same on a far lesser scale, made up of numerous sought-after paradises such as Clearwater and Siesta Key.
But what about good ol’ “St. Pete” (as locals call it)?
Experts at Southern Living have revealed their insightful picks for 2026’s most underrated getaways spread across the South from South Carolina to Mississippi.
But here at Travel Off Path, we understand Florida’s appeal with year-round Vitamin D waiting at a moment’s notice.
So, without further ado, we’ve plucked the Sunshine State’s most underrated 2026 destination from their jam-packed list of goodies — the ever-sunny city 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 either north to Clearwater or South to Siesta Key, you whizz by St. Pete without realizing how much of a stunner it is.
Both of these beach towns have been in a well-publicized duel for years, each earning ‘top beach’ honors year after year, leaving St. Petersburg in the dust.
Don’t get us wrong — many people vacation here. However, there’s no denying it should be mentioned with other Florida beauts, such as Destin and the like.
St. Pete boasts big-city perks and postcard beaches without the hassle of Florida’s most overcrowded coastal hotspots.
You can opt for a quiet retreat away from the urban buzz, find vibrant shores steps from beach bars, or even book a deep-sea excursion, as not owning a boat here is like living in Manhattan without a MetroCard.
If you’re seeking your next beach vacay, a visit to St. Pete should top your 2026 wishlist, as this gorgeous city is somehow still under-hyped.
For the record, 2024’s powerful hurricanes left their mark on the region, but there’s no reason to hold off booking a trip, as even ravaged Fort Myers, an hour and a half away, has made a remarkable recovery.
2026: A Year Of Celebrations
If you’re still uncertain about choosing St. Pete over other sunny Florida locales, let us fill you in on why 2026 is particularly enticing.
Besides gleaming white-sand beaches, laid-back vibes, and inviting waterways to explore by boat, if there’s one claim to fame, it’s the gorgeous pink pastel Vinoy hotel, celebrating its 100th birthday.
This is Southwest’s Florida most bucket-list-worthy stay, where U.S. Presidents vacationed during its heyday.
But this architectural marvel has stood the test of time, and you can bet there will be centennial celebrations and potential packages to score a great deal.
Another reason to dog-ear your calendar (if people still do that) is to make sure you time your trip right for St. Pete’s ‘Savor’ food and wine festival, typically held in the fall.
Speaking of food, and something you can look forward to before next fall, is the opening of the city’s first food hall, expected to open at the turn of the calendar.
Forget Tampa! Fly Directly Into St. Pete For Cheap
Why deal with the chaos of huge airports when you don’t have to? Better yet, why overpay?
Perhaps America’s trendiest budget airline (Allegiant) has a huge presence at St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE).
One of 5 airports in the Southwest Florida region, many travelers don’t realize you can fly straight in given how major players like Delta, United, and Southwest don’t fly here.
Your only 2 options are Allegiant and Sun Country (only offering seasonal service).
That said, Allegiant flies to PIE from a whopping 60+ cities, so odds are in your favor that you can snag a cheap flight.
Plus, if you do fly into St. Pete, you can score an easy loophole to Clearwater if that’s your final destination.
PIE offers the Grouper Airport Express, only charging $8 for a direct ride to any location on Clearwater Beach, including Marriott Sand Key and Sheraton Sand Key.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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