My Favorite Places Around Pinellas
One of the questions I get asked all the time is:
“Where do you go when you’re not selling real estate?”
After more than a decade living, working, and exploring Pinellas County, I’ve accumulated a pretty long list of favorite places. Some are well-known local staples. Others are hidden gems that make this area so special.
Whether you’re looking for a date night, a great cup of coffee, a family outing, or the perfect sunset, here are some of my personal favorites.
I hope you discover a few new spots to enjoy this summer!
— Amanda
☕ Favorite Coffee Truck
The Charlotte Bean
If you haven’t tried The Charlotte Bean yet, add it to your list. Great coffee, friendly service, and one of my favorite local stops when I’m on the go.
Why I love it:
- Locally owned
- Consistently great coffee
- Fun community feel
- Perfect for busy mornings
☕ Favorite Coffee Shop
Veskolini Cafe
This is one of those places that feels like a hidden treasure. Great coffee, delicious food, and a comfortable atmosphere that makes you want to stay awhile.
Why I love it:
- Cozy atmosphere
- Great breakfast and lunch options
- Excellent coffee
- Perfect for meeting friends or getting a little work done
🍽️ Favorite Date Night
Mystic Fish
If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a great meal, Mystic Fish remains one of my favorite date-night restaurants in Pinellas County.
Why I love it:
- Consistently excellent food
- Wonderful service
- Great wine list
- Perfect balance of upscale and comfortable
Runner-Up:
Allelo in Downtown St. Petersburg
🌊 Favorite Outdoor Patio
The Sandbar at Opal Sands
It’s hard to beat dining with Gulf views. Whether you’re stopping in for drinks, lunch, or dinner, the setting alone makes this one of my favorite outdoor spots.
Why I love it:
- Incredible waterfront views
- Relaxed coastal atmosphere
- Great place to bring visitors
- Beautiful sunset setting
Runner-Up:
Ozona Blue
🌅 Favorite Sunset Spot
Honeymoon Island State Park
If someone asks me where to watch a sunset, this is my answer.
Bring a beach chair, arrive a little early, and stay until the very end. The colors can be incredible.
Runner-Up:
Wall Springs Park
🚶 Favorite Morning Walk
Philippe Park
One of the most beautiful parks in North Pinellas. Waterfront views, giant oak trees, and a peaceful setting make it one of my favorite places to start the day.
Runner-Up:
Dunedin Causeway
🚲 Favorite Bike Ride
The Pinellas Trail
Particularly the stretch between Dunedin and Tarpon Springs.
You can stop for coffee, lunch, shopping, and enjoy some of the best small-town charm in Pinellas County.
⚾ Favorite Family Activity
Clearwater Threshers Baseball
Affordable, family-friendly, and a fun local tradition. It’s one of my favorite ways to spend an evening with family and friends.
Runner-Up:
The St. Pete Pier
🏖️ Favorite Beach Day
Caladesi Island State Park
One of Florida’s true treasures.
If you haven’t visited recently, make this the summer you go.
Pro Tip:
Take the ferry or kayak over for a quieter experience.
🍦 Favorite Summer Treat
Strachan’s Ice Cream
A local favorite for good reason.
Nothing says summer quite like ice cream after a day at the beach.
Runner-Up:
The Hyppo in St. Pete
🎶 Favorite Local Event
Safety Harbor Third Friday
Live music, local businesses, great food, and one of the best community atmospheres you’ll find anywhere in Tampa Bay.
If you’ve never been, put it on your calendar.
My Summer Challenge for You
Pick three places from this list that you’ve never visited and make a point to explore them this summer.
And if you discover a hidden gem that I should know about, send me a message. I’m always looking for new local favorites to add to my list.
See you around town!
“Amanda’s Hidden Gems Coming Soon”
Thinking about selling? Let’s chat about your home—coffee’s on me.
