No matter what your idea of a perfect beach vacation looks like – Central West Florida has it. From vacation rentals and beach cottages to luxury full-service resorts and charming bed & breakfasts. The more popular cities in the region like St. Pete, Tampa, Clearwater and Sarasota offer endless opportunities for resort lodging, while small islands along the coast will give you that secluded island getaway feeling – without the actual seclusion.

On Florida’s west coast, water often takes center stage when it comes to play. Be it in the Gulf or Tampa Bay – the beaches here are renowned and offer miles and miles of sand for relaxation or excitement. And don’t overlook the cultural hot spots of the coast – from the Dali Museum, the world’s most comprehensive collection of the artist’s work, to historic architecture and local art, the community hums with creativity!

Florida’s west coast carries a strong tradition in dining – the state’s first restaurant, Columbia, has been at home in Ybor City for 103 years! When you consider the array of influences at play here, from Cuban to Amish, you can always be sure of finding something unexpected. For a taste of the familiar, order the seafood – a coastal locale means you’re sure to be satisfied with almost any catch of the day!

How to Get Here

Getting into Florida is easy by car – just follow Interstates 10, 75 or 90. Or, hop on a plane – this is a popular destination, so flights are easy to come by. Arrive at the St. Petersburg/Clearwater or the Tampa International Airports and begin your adventure!

Getting Around

There are a few options when it comes to navigating Central West Florida. Pinellas County offers the Suncoast Beach Trolley which is handy, depending on the location of your lodging. Connector routes run between St. Petersburg and the coast, and it stops in many places in the area – check their website for times and stops. If your hotel is located near one of the airports, look into shuttle options. Renting a car is another way to go if you plan to wander on your own outside the central radius; for further ground transportation, a Greyhound Station is located in downtown Tampa.