When visiting Treasure Island, it’s difficult not to get wrapped up in the laid-back lifestyle of Old Florida. Treasure Island was named when an early hotel owner buried then ‘discovered’ a couple of wooden chests on the beach. News quickly spread, so others started calling the area Treasure Island, and the rest is history.
Today, guests visit Treasure Island for its 3 miles of white sandy beaches and family activities, which include outdoor recreation and events for all ages. Located adjacent to St. Petersburg and in proximity to Tampa, guests are also close to other top attractions, restaurants and things to do.
Plan for Water Fun in Treasure Island
A beach vacation isn’t complete without playing in the water. Treasure Island Beach ranks as a favorite beach and offers activities that include swimming, snorkeling, shelling, parasailing, fishing, wildlife watching and more. Online reviewers also praise the beach for its cleanliness and relaxed vibe. Families can also explore Pass-a-Grill Beach and Madeira Beach, two other family-friendly beaches in the area.
Another fun outdoor activity is riding a bike to The Sunset Vista Trailhead Park. The park isn’t technically a city-designated beach, but the beach is one of the best spots in Treasure Island to see Gulf sunsets. The park also features a small trail that winds along the dune and provides visitors a quiet escape.
Play the Golf Courses
Golfers will find their own personal paradise in Treasure Island, which is home to Treasure Bay Golf and Tennis. The public course features fun and challenging nine-holes, par 3, perfect for a quick game with friends and family. Visitors often rave about the views and affordable prices, as each guest can play the nine holes twice for around $10. Tennis courts are available for $2-10, and host mixers, leagues, camps and tournaments.
Spend a Day at John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk
Located next to Treasure Island in Madeira Beach, visitors will want to explore John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk. John’s Pass features a variety of shopping, restaurants and things to do. Locals refer to the area as The Pass, which was created by a hurricane in 1848. While here, take a dolphin or shelling tour, go parasailing, rent boats and jet skis, and more. Signature events at The Pass range from one of the largest seafood and music festivals in the U.S. to the Battle in the Gulf Fishing Tournament.
Don’t Miss the Iconic Attractions and Events
Since 1967, the Treasure Island Fun Center in Seminole has delighted visitors of all ages. The center measures more than 16,000 square feet of family fun with games and entertainment. Guests can purchase an unlimited play package – starting at $5 per child – for a day of arcade battles.
To find that perfect souvenir and meet locals, stop by The Florida Shell Shop. For 50-plus years, this shop has welcomed guests with Old Florida style. The family-owned and operated store sells gifts for all ages, nautical merchandise, souvenirs, jewelry and more. It’s also the oldest shop on Treasure Island!
Each May, the beach town hosts a street party, Rock Around the Clock. This local event is fun for all ages with live music, great food and vendors. The free event runs until 11 p.m., providing adults a great excuse to stay up late. For year-round nightlife hot spots, check out Ka’Tiki, Keel and Curley’s Vino-N-Brew, The Cigar Republic, and CJ’s On The Island, a local dive bar.
Looking for a vacation rental? Browse affordable rentals in the Treasure Island and St. Pete area.
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