🌊 September Events You Won’t Want to Miss on the Florida Gulf Coast
September is a beautiful time to visit Clearwater and the surrounding Gulf Coast! The summer crowds begin to slow down, the sunsets are breathtaking, and there are still plenty of exciting events happening along the shore. Whether you love wildlife, sports, or high-speed action on the water, September brings unforgettable experiences for everyone.
If you’re planning a beach getaway with Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals, be sure to add these local events to your itinerary!
🐢 Sea Turtle Nesting Ride-Along
Through September 4, 2026
📍 Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Experience one of Florida’s most incredible natural wonders during sea turtle nesting season! Join the Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s patrol team for an evening ride-along adventure as they search the shoreline for nesting sea turtles.
This unique experience gives guests the opportunity to learn about local conservation efforts, witness the important work being done to protect sea turtles, and gain a deeper appreciation for the incredible wildlife that calls our beaches home.
🌴 Travel Tip: September evenings are the perfect time for a beach walk. Bring a light jacket, comfortable shoes, and your camera for a memorable coastal adventure.
🏴☠️ Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2026 Season Opener
Sunday, September 13, 2026
⏰ 12:00 PM ET
📍 Raymond James Stadium, Tampa
Football season is back! Kick off the 2026 NFL season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they begin another exciting year of football.
Located just a short drive from Clearwater Beach, a Bucs game makes for a fun day trip filled with energy, excitement, and plenty of Tampa Bay spirit. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just want to experience the atmosphere of an NFL game, this is a great addition to your Florida vacation.
🏈 Travel Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the pre-game excitement, tailgating, and the famous pirate ship atmosphere inside Raymond James Stadium.
🚤 Clearwater Offshore Nationals
September 24–26, 2026
📍 Clearwater Beach
Get ready for an adrenaline-filled weekend as the Clearwater Offshore Nationals return to the Gulf Coast! As the final stop before the World Championships, this exciting event brings high-speed offshore boat racing right to the waters of Clearwater Beach.
Watch powerful racing boats speed across the Gulf while enjoying one of the most exciting waterfront events of the year. With beautiful beaches, ocean views, and nonstop action, it’s a must-see event for visitors and locals alike.
🌊 Travel Tip: Find a spot along Clearwater Beach early to enjoy the best views of the races while soaking up the sunshine and coastal atmosphere.
🌞 Make September Your Beach Escape
From peaceful evenings protecting sea turtles to the excitement of football and offshore racing, September offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
After a day of exploring, come home to the comfort of your Sandy Feet Vacation Rental and enjoy everything that makes a Clearwater beach vacation unforgettable — beautiful sunsets, warm Gulf waters, and memories that last long after your trip ends.
✨ Book your stay with Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals and start planning your perfect September getaway! 🌴
Explore Local Flavor: Must-Visit Markets & Live Music Events Near Clearwater Beach
Looking for a fun way to experience the local culture, fresh flavors, and vibrant community around the Clearwater Beach area? The Gulf beaches are home to some amazing weekly and monthly markets where visitors can shop local vendors, enjoy live music, discover unique finds, and soak up the Florida sunshine.
Whether you are searching for fresh produce, handmade gifts, delicious food, or a relaxing evening stroll, these nearby markets are worth adding to your vacation itinerary.
🎶 Rock the Rocks: Monthly Market & Live Music in Indian Rocks Beach
401 Gulf Blvd, Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785
Every second Saturday of the month | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Hosted by The Original Crabby Bills, Rock the Rocks brings together the best of local flavor, music, and community in the heart of Indian Rocks Beach.
This monthly celebration is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy a lively beach-town atmosphere. Browse local vendors, listen to live music, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibes that make Indian Rocks Beach so special.
It is a great way to spend an afternoon before catching a beautiful Gulf sunset.
🌊 Saturday Sunset Markets on St. Pete Beach
4655 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Every Saturday evening | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Located near Dolphin Village Shopping Center, the Saturday Sunset Market is a wonderful evening stop after a day at the beach.
With easy beach access nearby, visitors can enjoy a relaxing market experience featuring local artisans, makers, food vendors, and small businesses. Shop handmade goods, pick up unique souvenirs, enjoy delicious bites, and take in the beautiful St. Pete Beach atmosphere.
This is the perfect combination of shopping, dining, and a sunset stroll along the coast.
🥕 Corey Avenue Sunday Fresh Market in St. Pete Beach
398-300 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Every Sunday | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Start your Sunday with a visit to the Corey Avenue Sunday Fresh Market, one of the area’s favorite weekly traditions.
Featuring around 100 vendors, this market offers everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade jewelry, home décor, artwork, and local treats.
Pick up fresh ingredients for your vacation meals, find a one-of-a-kind gift, or simply enjoy walking through the market while experiencing the friendly community atmosphere of St. Pete Beach.
🛍️ Sip & Stroll on Corey Avenue
537 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Last Friday of every month | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
For a fun evening out, plan a visit to Sip & Stroll on Corey Avenue.
Held on the last Friday of each month, this event transforms Corey Avenue into a lively evening destination filled with local shopping, drinks, entertainment, and community connections.
Stroll through local businesses, explore unique shops, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, and experience the charm of one of St. Pete Beach’s most popular streets.
🌴 Add These Local Events to Your Beach Vacation Plans
From live music and sunset markets to fresh produce and local artisans, these events are a great way to experience more than just the beaches. They offer a chance to slow down, meet local makers, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the unique coastal lifestyle that makes the Clearwater, Indian Rocks Beach, and St. Pete Beach areas unforgettable.
Planning your next Gulf Coast getaway? Be sure to check the local event calendars during your stay and make time to experience these fun community favorites!
Owning a luxury vacation rental is about more than simply listing your property online and waiting for reservations to roll in. Today’s travelers have high expectations, and meeting those expectations consistently requires experience, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to every aspect of property management.
That’s where Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals comes in.
We believe premium property management is more than a service—it’s a partnership. Our goal is to protect your investment, maximize your rental income, and create exceptional guest experiences that keep visitors coming back year after year.
Expertise That Makes a Difference
High-end vacation homes require a different level of care than the average rental property. From preparing your home for the market to maintaining it throughout the year, every detail matters.
At Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals, our experienced team understands what it takes to successfully manage luxury properties. We don’t simply oversee reservations—we provide strategic guidance that helps homeowners increase revenue while preserving the long-term value of their investment.
Whether you’re launching a brand-new vacation rental or refreshing an established property, our licensed and insured in-house construction company can assist with renovations, updates, and improvements that make your home even more appealing to today’s guests.
Creating a Property Guests Love
First impressions can make or break a vacation rental. That’s why we help owners create spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and memorable.
From property setup and design recommendations to renovations and staging, we work alongside homeowners to ensure every room meets the expectations of discerning travelers. The result is a vacation home that photographs beautifully, earns exceptional reviews, and encourages repeat bookings.
Exceptional Guest Experiences Lead to Better Reviews
A successful vacation rental depends on more than an attractive home. Guests remember how they’re treated just as much as where they stay.
Our team is available around the clock to answer questions, resolve issues quickly, and provide the kind of responsive customer service that leads to five-star experiences. Fast communication gives guests confidence throughout their stay while helping owners avoid unnecessary stress.
Happy guests leave positive reviews, recommend your property to others, and are more likely to return for future vacations.
Local Knowledge You Can Count On
Because we’re based in Pinellas County, we know the local market inside and out.
Our team regularly visits the properties we manage, conducting inspections and coordinating maintenance to ensure every home remains in excellent condition. Being local also means we can respond quickly when guests need assistance or unexpected maintenance issues arise.
That hands-on approach simply isn’t possible with many large, out-of-town management companies.
Protecting Your Investment Every Day
Luxury homes deserve proactive care.
We coordinate routine maintenance, emergency repairs, professional cleanings, and property inspections to keep your vacation rental looking its best throughout the year. Every guest arrives to a home that’s clean, well-maintained, and ready for an unforgettable stay.
We also provide and install smart keyless entry systems, making check-ins seamless while improving security and simplifying access for guests, cleaners, and maintenance professionals.
Professional Marketing That Drives Bookings
Even the most beautiful vacation rental won’t perform well without effective marketing.
With more than 15 years of real estate experience, our team knows how to position luxury properties to attract qualified guests. We create compelling listings with professional photography, engaging descriptions, and optimized pricing strategies designed to increase visibility and maximize occupancy.
As your property evolves through renovations or updates, we ensure your listing stays current with fresh photography and accurate information.
More Than Management—A Long-Term Investment Strategy
Choosing premium property management isn’t just about making ownership easier. It’s about improving the overall performance of your vacation rental.
Strategic pricing helps maximize revenue during both peak and off seasons, while consistent maintenance protects the condition and long-term value of your home. Professional guest communication, thoughtful marketing, and attentive service all work together to reduce vacancy, increase repeat bookings, and strengthen your property’s reputation.
Most importantly, premium management gives owners something that’s difficult to put a price on: peace of mind. You can enjoy the financial rewards of your vacation rental knowing experienced professionals are handling every detail.
Experience the Sandy Feet Difference
At Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals, we treat every property as if it were our own. Our personalized approach, local expertise, and commitment to exceptional service allow homeowners to get the most from their investment while providing unforgettable experiences for every guest.
If you’re looking for a property management partner who goes beyond the basics, Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals is ready to help your vacation rental reach its full potential.
May is the perfect time to visit the St. Pete-Clearwater Beach area, with a fantastic lineup of events to make your trip unforgettable! Whether you’re into music, food, culture, or just a good time in the sun, there’s something for everyone this month. Let’s take a look at some of the exciting events coming up:
1. Country Thunder Florida – May 8th-10th at Coachman Park
If you’re a country music fan, you won’t want to miss Country Thunder Florida, a weekend-long celebration featuring some of the biggest names in country music! Head over to Coachman Park from May 8th-10th to catch performances from artists like Kane Brown, Zach Top, Gavin Adcock, and many more. Whether you’re a fan of classic country or the latest hits, this festival is sure to be a blast!
2. Mother’s Day Brunch at Latitude 28 – May 10th at the JW Marriott
Treat mom to something special this Mother’s Day with a delicious brunch at Latitude 28 at the JW Marriott! Enjoy stunning views of the Clearwater Beach waterfront while savoring an array of decadent dishes. It’s the perfect way to make this Mother’s Day unforgettable. The brunch will feature a selection of gourmet dishes that will delight mom and the whole family.
3. Food, Wine & Garden Festival – Now through May 10th at Busch Gardens
For a blend of culinary delights and beautiful gardens, don’t miss the Food, Wine & Garden Festival at Busch Gardens. Running now through May 10th, this festival brings together some of the best food, drinks, and live entertainment around. From rock to Latin to country music, enjoy a variety of genres while indulging in flavorful food and wine pairings. Plus, the stunning gardens provide the perfect backdrop for a fun day out with family and friends.
4. St. Pete Italian Fest – May 16th at Vinoy Park
Celebrate Italian culture and heritage at the St. Pete Italian Fest on May 16th at Vinoy Park. This annual event offers a wonderful way to enjoy delicious food, vibrant music, and cultural festivities. From pasta and pizza to gelato and cannoli, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering Italian dishes to try. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and take in the scenic views of Tampa Bay while spending the day with your family and friends.
The St. Pete-Clearwater Beach area is buzzing with energy this May, and these events are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you’re visiting for the music, food, or cultural experiences, this month promises to offer plenty of unforgettable moments. Be sure to mark your calendar and join in the fun at these incredible events!
As we approach the bustling spring break season in Pinellas County—specifically in popular areas like Clearwater Beach and St. Pete—short-term rental owners have a unique opportunity to maximize their rental income and provide a memorable experience for guests. Spring break (February through April) brings an influx of travelers, from families to college students, eager to enjoy the beautiful Florida beaches and vibrant local attractions.
But with great opportunity comes great responsibility. Now is the time to get your property ready for the busiest season of the year. In this blog post, we’ll help you prepare for the upcoming rush, manage the post-spring break recovery period in May, and set up your property for a successful summer.
1. Maximize Your Booking Potential During Spring Break
Spring break is one of the busiest times for short-term rental properties in Pinellas County, so it’s crucial to ensure your property stands out. Here’s how to make the most of the busy season:
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Targeting the Spring Break Crowd
Many guests will be traveling to Clearwater Beach and St. Pete for a fun, sun-filled vacation. Tailor your listing to highlight what makes your property ideal for spring break guests—whether it’s proximity to the beach, an in-ground pool, or nearby nightlife. Update your photos to reflect your property’s best features and include a detailed description that showcases nearby attractions. -
Adjust Your Rates
Spring break brings high demand, so it’s essential to adjust your rates accordingly. Use dynamic pricing tools to help you stay competitive and ensure your property is priced appropriately for the high demand. -
Prepare for Higher Traffic
With more guests coming in and out, you’ll likely experience more wear and tear. Make sure your property is ready by stocking up on essentials like towels, toiletries, and extra linens. Consider adding amenities like beach chairs or umbrellas to make the guest experience even better. Make sure everything is in good working order, from kitchen appliances to electronics.
2. Managing Guest Expectations and Communication During Spring Break
Clear communication is key during the busy spring break period. Here are a few things to consider to ensure your guests have a great stay:
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Set Clear Expectations
Spring break often means more noise and higher activity, especially with younger guests. Be sure to communicate your house rules, quiet hours, and any other policies to set expectations upfront. A well-written welcome message or guidebook can help guests understand what to expect during their stay. -
Provide Excellent Customer Service
A friendly, responsive attitude goes a long way, especially when managing spring break crowds. Make sure to answer any guest questions quickly and thoroughly. It’s also helpful to provide a local guide with recommendations for nearby attractions, dining spots, and entertainment options, which can add extra value to their experience.
3. Preparing for the Aftermath: Post-Spring Break Recovery
Once the spring break rush comes to an end, May presents a much-needed opportunity to take a breather, recover, and ensure that your property is in top shape for the summer. Here’s how to make the most of this downtime:
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A Time to Recharge
After several weeks of busy check-ins and check-outs, May is the perfect time to recharge and reassess. This will give you a moment to relax before the summer season picks up again. But it’s also a great chance to get your property ready for the upcoming months. -
Clean and Inspect
The end of the busy season is the perfect opportunity to tackle a deep clean and assess your property for wear and tear. Ensure that your carpets, furniture, and kitchen appliances are cleaned thoroughly. It may also be worth scheduling a professional cleaning service to handle areas that are harder to maintain, like carpets or windows.
4. Spring Maintenance Checklist for Short-Term Rental Owners
A little attention now can save you time and money in the future. Use this checklist to guide your post-spring break maintenance routine:
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Deep Clean
After a busy spring season, it’s essential to deep clean your property, especially high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathrooms. This includes washing windows, cleaning under furniture, scrubbing tiles, and ensuring all linens are refreshed. -
Inspect Appliances and HVAC
Check all your appliances to make sure they’re working properly. Look for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Test the A/C units and replace filters to ensure they’re running smoothly during the summer months. -
Outdoor Maintenance
The warmer weather means your outdoor space will likely see more use. Clean and inspect any outdoor furniture, touch up the paint or finish if necessary, and refresh your landscaping. A well-kept exterior not only improves your property’s curb appeal but also creates a welcoming environment for guests.
5. Preparing for the Summer Season
While spring break may be the busiest time, summer comes with a steady flow of demand. Here’s what you can do to prepare for the summer season:
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Optimize Your Calendar
Summer brings a mix of busy and slow weeks. Some weeks may see heavy demand, especially in July and August, while others may be slower. Adjust your availability to take advantage of the peak weeks, and consider raising rates for high-demand dates like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or local events. -
Prepare for Summer Amenities
Many guests travel in the summer for relaxation, so it’s essential to focus on amenities that will make their stay comfortable. Be sure to have air conditioning in working order, offer a well-maintained pool, and consider adding outdoor gear like barbecues, beach toys, or bikes to cater to summer vacationers.
Spring break may be your busiest time, but with proper planning and preparation, you can manage the influx of guests with ease. Don’t forget that post-spring break is a time to recover and ensure your property is well-maintained for the summer season. By staying proactive, you’ll ensure that your short-term rental business runs smoothly year-round, from peak season to the off-season.
Now is the time to prepare for a profitable spring and summer ahead, so you can maximize your rental income while providing guests with an exceptional experience. Happy hosting!
Need Help Hosting? Ready to Invest in a Premium Property Management Company to Help Maximize Profits?
If you’re looking for expert assistance in managing your short-term rental property or are ready to maximize your profits and minimize your stress, call us at Sandy Feet VR! We’re a locally owned business known for providing excellent customer service. With over 2,700 5-star reviews, we’re dedicated to helping you succeed.
📞 Call us at 727-333-5951 to learn more about how we can help you optimize your short-term rental business today!
The St. Pete–Clearwater Beach area continues to be one of Florida’s most desirable vacation destinations — and that makes it an ideal market for short-term vacation rental owners. With award-winning beaches, year-round tourism, and strong demand from travelers, owning a vacation rental here can offer both lifestyle and financial rewards.
If you’re considering investing in a short-term vacation rental in St. Pete or Clearwater, here are seven compelling benefits to keep in mind.
1. Strong Rental Income in a High-Demand Beach Market
St. Pete–Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among the top beach destinations in the U.S., attracting families, couples, snowbirds, and international travelers year-round. This high demand allows vacation rental owners to earn competitive nightly rates — especially during peak seasons, holidays, and major local events.
Short-term rentals in beachside neighborhoods often outperform long-term rentals, giving owners the opportunity to generate higher income while maintaining flexibility.
2. Year-Round Tourism Means Consistent Bookings
Unlike seasonal destinations, the St. Pete–Clearwater area benefits from Florida’s warm climate and steady tourism flow. From winter escapes and spring break trips to summer vacations and fall festivals, travelers visit throughout the year.
This consistent demand helps vacation rental owners maintain healthy occupancy rates and reduce income gaps between seasons.
3. Flexibility to Use Your Property Whenever You Want
One of the biggest advantages of owning a short-term vacation rental is control. You decide when to rent and when to reserve the property for personal use.
Want to enjoy Clearwater Beach for a weekend getaway or host family during the holidays? Simply block off the dates. Your investment doubles as your own beach retreat.
4. Valuable Tax Benefits for Vacation Rental Owners
Short-term rental owners in Florida may be eligible for tax advantages that can significantly improve overall returns. Depending on your financial situation and tax strategy, you may be able to deduct expenses such as:
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Mortgage interest
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Property taxes
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Insurance
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Maintenance and repairs
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Utilities
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Professional management fees
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Depreciation
Always consult a tax professional to understand how vacation rental tax benefits apply to your specific situation.
5. Property Appreciation in a Desirable Coastal Area
Real estate in the St. Pete–Clearwater Beach market has shown strong long-term appreciation due to limited beachfront supply and ongoing demand. As tourism continues to grow and development remains competitive, well-located vacation rental properties often increase in value over time.
This means owners can benefit from both rental income and long-term equity growth.
6. Diversify Your Investment Portfolio with Real Estate
Owning a vacation rental adds diversification to your investment portfolio. Unlike stocks or bonds, real estate provides a tangible asset that generates income while protecting against inflation.
Short-term rentals in popular beach destinations can offer a balance of cash flow, appreciation, and personal enjoyment.
7. Professional Vacation Rental Management Makes Ownership Easy
Managing a short-term rental doesn’t have to be stressful. Many owners in the St. Pete–Clearwater area choose professional vacation rental management to handle:
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Guest communication
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Marketing and listings
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Cleaning and maintenance
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Pricing optimization
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Local compliance
This allows you to enjoy the benefits of ownership without the day-to-day workload — while ensuring guests have a five-star experience. (View our Owners Portfolio here).
Is a Short-Term Vacation Rental Right for You?
Owning a short-term vacation rental in St. Pete–Clearwater Beach offers a unique combination of income potential, lifestyle flexibility, and long-term value. With the right property, location, and management strategy, it can be both a rewarding investment and a personal escape!
Ready to make the most of your St. Pete–Clearwater vacation rental?
Give us a call at Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals — we’d love to help you maximize your income while protecting your investment. Our local expertise and hands-on management make vacation rental ownership simple and stress-free.
📞 Call us today at 727-333-5951 to get started.
January Events in St. Pete–Clearwater Beach & Pinellas County 🌊☀️
Plan Your Winter Getaway on Florida’s Gulf Coast
January is one of the best months to visit St. Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach, and the surrounding Pinellas County area. With cooler temperatures, sunny skies, and a packed calendar of local festivals, winter visitors can enjoy the perfect blend of beach time and unforgettable events.
If you’re planning a Florida Gulf Coast vacation, these January events near Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg are the perfect reason to book your stay and experience the area like a local.
🎨 Corey Ave Art & Craft Festival – St. Pete Beach
January 3 – January 4, 2026
Located in the heart of St. Pete Beach, the Corey Avenue Art & Craft Festival is a beloved local tradition. Browse handcrafted art, coastal décor, jewelry, and gifts while enjoying the relaxed charm of this beachside neighborhood. It’s an easy outing if you’re staying near St. Pete Beach or Treasure Island.
🖌️ Downtown Dunedin Craft Festival – Pinellas County
January 3 – January 4, 2026
Just north of Clearwater, Downtown Dunedin hosts one of Pinellas County’s most popular craft festivals. This walkable area features local artists, shops, restaurants, and breweries—making it a perfect day trip during your Clearwater Beach vacation.
🎶 Rock the Rocks Market & Live Music – Pinellas County
January 10, 2026 | 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Spend the day enjoying live music, local vendors, and a lively outdoor market atmosphere. Events like this are what make Pinellas County such a vibrant destination during the winter months, offering something fun for couples, families, and groups.
🪁 Treasure Island Kite Festival – Treasure Island Beach
January 16 @ 10:00 am – January 18 @ 5:00 pm
One of the most iconic winter events on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Treasure Island Kite Festival fills the sky with colorful kites right along the beach. This multi-day festival is incredibly family-friendly and a must-see if you’re staying near Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, or Madeira Beach.
🌮🍹 St. Pete Tacos & Tequila Festival – St. Petersburg
January 17 @ 4:00 pm – January 18 @ 7:00 pm
Head into Downtown St. Petersburg for a high-energy festival featuring gourmet tacos, tequila tastings, and live entertainment. It’s the perfect evening event to pair with a beach day during your St. Pete–Clearwater vacation.
Stay Close to the Best January Events 🏖️
January is peak season for the St. Pete–Clearwater Beach area, and these events are just one of the many reasons guests return year after year. When you stay with Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals, you’re perfectly positioned near Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and top attractions throughout Pinellas County.
✨ Book your stay at one of our Sandy Feet Vacation Rentals properties and enjoy sunny beaches, local festivals, and the best of Florida’s Gulf Coast—all just minutes from your front door.
Your winter escape starts here 🌞