It's Always Sunny in St. Pete Beach, Florida: Trade Winds Island Resorts

By Cat Perry

Beautiful sandy beaches right in your backyard. That's St. Pete Beach. On a recent trip to Trade Winds Island Resorts in St. Petersburg, Florida, I had the delight of walking in to a beautiful Gulf-side suite that offered some of the best views on St Pete Beach. Take a look for yourself! Fly into Tampa and it's a quick 35 minute trip to get to the beach, drink in cup.

Though I'd normally find a campsite in a locale like this—because it was only March, so not too hot (perfect tent-pitching weather) for a snowbird coming from NYC, and because Fort De Soto Park is right nearby (15 minutes max) with beautiful campsites and surroundings—it was totally fantastic to stay in Trade Winds to get a real taste of the good life. Their motto is "Just let go." I can see why.

The beaches are sugar soft, the weather at this time of year is impeccable, there's something for families, teens, couples, and singles at this sprawling resort that somehow feels cozy as well. While swinging on your hammock in dusky afternoon, paddling out on the Gulf or around the property, you never ever feel like you're crowded out.

The Trade Winds Adventure Center offers visitors the chance to parasail, jet ski, or just relax. Cabana rentals are free with your stay and the food on site offers the full range, from a fine Italian eatery to healthy menus to an ice cream shop! The property spans two resorts, both Trade Winds Island Grand and Guy Harvey Outpost. One of the most fun attractions at the Outpost is a 33,000-gallon fish tank, filled with local Florida fish and one small shark and an eel, where visitors can "Swim with the Fishes" for up to 20 minutes. For those 8 years and older. It' truly unique and entertaining, especially knowing that Guy Harvey Restaurant diners are probably snapping shots of you coming face-to-face with dozens of fish.

Trade Winds and St. Pete Beach offers countless ways to relax. And other nearby resorts like the Loews Don CeSar,  host daily BEACH YOGA CLASSES outside this impressive historic landmark hotel, so you can get grounded on the beach and live the dream.