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Boy on St Pete Beach
Boy on St Pete Beach

Tampa & St.Pete / Clearwater holidays

Gateway to Gulf Coast beaches, bright water and easy road trips made for exploring together.

 

Also known as the Tampa Bay area, this is an ideal gateway to access Florida’s gorgeous gulf coast beaches, providing Caribbean-like climate and sensational sunsets. Clearwater and St. Pete boast some of the best beaches in the USA, with both featuring in TripAdvisor's Top 25 Beaches in the USA. These barrier-island spots make the perfect backdrop for a tranquil escape with powdery white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters.

In the city of Tampa itself, the historic waterside metropolis is brimming with fantastic places to eat and cultural hot spots. Looking for thrills? Tampa is just over an hour away from Orlando's biggest and best theme parks.

Tampa: Your gateway to Clearwater's white sands

Essential information for Tampa & St. Pete/Clearwater

  1. Time Zone

    UK - 5hrs

  2. Language

    American English

  3. Currency

    US Dollar $

  4. Flight information

    9-10 hrs direct

  1. Flight schedule

    Virgin Atlantic fly daily to Tampa from London Heathrow.

  2. Do I need a visa?

    To travel to the USA, you will need an ESTA visa. Please make sure that you have this approved at least 3 days before you head off on holiday.

    Find out more about Travel Visas here »

Multi-destination holidays

What could be better than a holiday?

Two holidays, of course, or even three! The beauty of a multi-destination holiday is that it lets you fit more of what you love into a single trip.

Why not fly into Orlando to visit the world-famous theme parks, and then make your way to St Pete for some beachside R&R, before returning home via our new route direct from Tampa? Or fly into Tampa and drive your way around some of the best beaches in the US?! Here is a pre-packaged multi-destination trip that can allow you to fit in the best of everything that Florida has to offer:

     

Where are you heading?

  1. Price comparison

    It's always worth comparing your Orlando flight prices to Tampa ones, especially in busy times like the summer holidays - you never know, you could save more money towards those souvenirs!

  2. Stress-free experience

    Tampa Airport is significantly less busy than Orlando, so it's likely to be a more carefree experience, especially with little ones. Expect fewer queues, and that means you'll be on your way even quicker!

  3. Variety of options

    Whether you're after a beach holiday or the excitement of Orlando, Tampa Airport gives you easy access. Remember to add on a car to your package for added flexibility.

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Beach days and sunsets: the best of Tampa & St. Pete/Clearwater Holidays

The Tampa Bay area of Florida’s Gulf Coast, makes for a dreamy getaway thanks its tropical Caribbean climate and pristine beaches.

Tampa is great hub to make your base. It's a fun waterside city that's full of life and where you can enjoy loads of outdoor activities, plenty of culture and world-class cuisine.

Just over 30 mins West is St. Pete Beach, which lives up to its culturally savvy, artsy reputation, with craft boutiques, farmers markets and galleries galore. Further North is the stunning Clearwater which is famed for its incredible coastal spots.

Whatever you choose to do, your holiday to Tampa & St. Pete/Clearwater will be nothing short of paradisiacal, but what to do first? We’ve got the lowdown on the best places to visit, things to do and experiences not to be missed:

Thinking of spending your holidays in Tampa & St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida? We don’t blame you. Check out our Tampa & St. Pete/Clearwater hotels today — you’ll be sunning yourself on the Gulf of Mexico before you know it!

Need more travel tips or holiday help?

Driving is the most direct and flexible way to travel between Tampa and Orlando. The route takes you along Interstate 4 (I-4), stretching just over 85 miles (137 km). The journey typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, though traffic—especially near Orlando—can stretch it to 1.5 to 2 hours.

Explore the Tampa Riverwalk

A stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk is an essential experience. This scenic, 2.4-mile path follows the Hillsborough River, offering views of the city skyline, museums, parks, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a perfect way to explore Tampa’s arts and culture scene. Take in street art, sip coffee at a riverside café, or catch a sunset on the water.

Visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

For thrill-seekers and animal lovers alike, Busch Gardens is an exciting blend of roller coasters and wildlife. The park’s African-themed zones host exotic animals, live shows, and adrenaline-pumping rides like SheiKra and Cheetah Hunt. It's a family-friendly park with a perfect mix of nature and excitement.

Spend a Day at Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is a must-visit for those looking to relax by the water. With its famous powdery white sand and gentle waves, it's ideal for lounging, swimming, or renting a kayak. The Pier 60 area is great for family fun, with street performers, local vendors, and stunning sunsets that transform the sky into a masterpiece.

Tour the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg

Art enthusiasts will be mesmerized by the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg. The museum features a comprehensive collection of Dalí’s works, including his surreal and thought-provoking paintings. The architecture itself is a work of art, with the glass “mustache” and spiral staircase offering a striking contrast to the exhibits inside.

Visit the Florida Aquarium in Tampa

The Florida Aquarium in Tampa is a family-friendly spot where visitors can interact with marine life. It features everything from tropical fish to sharks, with hands-on exhibits for kids. You can also take part in unique experiences like the shark dive or behind-the-scenes tours of the aquarium.

Shop and Dine at Sparkman Wharf

Located along the Tampa Riverwalk, Sparkman Wharf offers a unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experience. With waterfront views and a relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Explore the food hall, grab a drink, and enjoy live music on weekends.

 

 

Clearwater Beach – Iconic beauty with gentle waves
Just under an hour from Tampa, Clearwater Beach is famous for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and vibrant sunsets that turn the sky into a living painting. The vibe is relaxed but lively, with a promenade perfect for strolling and local spots for fresh seafood and cocktails.

St. Pete Beach – Laid-back paradise with sunset magic
South of Clearwater, St. Pete Beach is a tranquil stretch of soft sand kissed by warm Gulf waters. The sunsets here are legendary—fiery and surreal. It’s the kind of place where time slows and salt lingers in your hair long after you leave. Don’t miss Pass-a-Grille, a historic, quieter section of the beach.

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