Florida’s West Coast doesn’t get nearly the hype it deserves. Sure, the East Coast has Miami, and theme parks are a draw in Central Florida, but if you’re craving sugar-white beaches, laidback towns, and some of the best food and culture the Sunshine State has to offer, you’ll want to look west. From art-filled cities to historic gems and Greek sponge-diving heritage, these spots pack plenty of reasons to add them to your Florida travel list.
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Clearwater – Beach Bliss
Clearwater is pure beach bliss. Think sugar-white sand, turquoise waters, and nightly sunset celebrations at Pier 60 with street performers and local vendors. Time your visit with the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival, or spend an afternoon at the amazing Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Luxury beachfront hotels make it easy to stay close to the action, while Frenchie’s Rockaway Grill delivers the best grouper Reuben you’ll ever taste.
Dunedin – Quaint and Laid-Back
If Clearwater is lively, Dunedin is laidback in the best way. This small town is a gem, boasting a walkable downtown area filled with local restaurants, breweries, and shops. Hop on a bike and cruise the Pinellas Trail, or head to Honeymoon Island State Park for pristine beaches, kayaking, and nature trails.
Dunedin may be small, but it delivers big on charm and character. Bonus: the sunsets here are gorgeous!
Fort Myers – A Gateway to Island Escapes
Fort Myers is your gateway to island-hopping paradise. From here, it’s easy to reach Sanibel and Captiva Islands—perfect for shelling, kayaking, and birdwatching at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
History enthusiasts will enjoy the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, a fascinating glimpse into the lives of two of America’s great inventors.
And for a meal you won’t forget, lunch at The Veranda feels like stepping into a southern garden party with its lush setting and delicious food.
Lakeland – A Blend of Charm and Art
Smack dab between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland is a fun mix of culture, wildlife, and small-town surprises. Architecture buffs will be in awe of the enormous collection of Frank Lloyd Wright designs at Florida Southern College.
Around the lakes, you’ll spot the city’s famous swans along with plenty of birds and outdoor art installations. Circle B Bar Reserve is perfect for wildlife viewing, while Hollis Garden offers vibrant blooms and sculptures.
Families will love Safari Wilderness, an exotic drive-thru animal park. Baseball fans, don’t miss the Detroit Tigers’ spring training.
Naples – Elegant and Scenic
Naples epitomizes coastal elegance. Picture high-end shopping, beautiful beaches with aqua-blue waters, and more than 80 world-class golf courses—earning it the title of “Golf Capital of the World.”
Naples Botanical Garden is one of the best in the country, while Fifth Avenue is the premier destination for shopping and dining. Art lovers will also find a thriving scene here.
My favorite stop, though, is Tin City—an eclectic mix of boutiques and casual restaurants that feels authentically Floridian.
Pensacola – Rich History and Relaxation
Known as the “City of Five Flags,” Pensacola is a delightful mix of history, beach vibes, and culture. Its walkable downtown is perfect for strolling between restaurants and shops, while a quick drive takes you to emerald-water beaches.
Foodies will want to try Five Sisters Blues Café or Jackson’s Steakhouse. Keep an eye out for the Blue Angels practicing overhead—they call Pensacola home. I also love the colorful murals and Pelican Passport experience, which lets you track themed pelican statues around town.
For art, the Pensacola Museum of Art is worth a visit, and Gulf Islands National Seashore is always an adventure.
Sarasota – Arts, Culture, and Nature
Sarasota is a cultural powerhouse on the Gulf Coast. The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is spectacular, from its historic mansion to the jaw-dropping Rubens collection.
Nearby, Siesta Key Beach boasts some of the softest, whitest sand you’ll ever feel—often ranked #1 in the country. St. Armands Circle is great for shopping and dining, while Marie Selby Botanical Gardens wow with orchids, banyan trees, bromeliads, and air plants.
For food, I adore The Lobster Pot on Siesta Key, but Yoder’s Restaurant serves Amish comfort food that’s hard to beat.
St. Pete – A Cultural and Coastal Paradise
St. Pete (short for St. Petersburg) is an artsy, eclectic, and vibrant city. Start with the Dalí Museum, home to one of the largest Salvador Dalí collections outside of Spain. Wander the EDGE District for bohemian cafés and striking murals, or explore the Chihuly Collection at Morean Arts Center.
Families will love Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, while Bodega on Central serves up some of Florida’s best Cuban sandwiches. And don’t overlook St. Pete’s beaches—powdery sand, sparkling waters, and a dog-friendly vibe make them some of the Gulf’s best.
Tampa – Where Thrills and Heritage Meet
Tampa blends Cuban heritage with big-city energy. Ybor City is the place for wonderful Cuban food (the Columbia is my top pick!), while Busch Gardens delivers thrills with world-class roller coasters.
Take a pirate-themed cruise down the Hillsborough River, or stroll the scenic Tampa Riverwalk. Families can explore the Florida Aquarium or the Henry B. Plant Museum for history lovers. Sports fans will enjoy catching a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game or a Bucs football game.
Beer lovers, don’t miss Cigar City Brewing, a Florida favorite.
Tarpon Springs – Florida’s Greek Village
Tarpon Springs feels like a slice of Greece right on the Gulf. The town’s sponge-diving heritage is alive at the historic sponge docks, where you can shop for handmade goods and watch divers in action.
Be sure to enjoy an authentic Greek meal at Hellas Restaurant & Bakery (save room for baklava!). Glimpse the stunning St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, or relive your childhood at the Replay Museum with vintage arcade games and pinball.
Clear kayaking is a local favorite for experiencing the water.
Time to Hit the Road!
Florida’s west coast is packed with surprises, whether you’re chasing sunsets, shopping downtowns, or exploring world-class museums. Each destination has its own personality, making this part of the Sunshine State a treasure trove for travelers.
From the elegance of Naples to the artsy spirit of St. Pete, the historic charm of Tarpon Springs to the beachy fun of Clearwater, you’ll never run out of things to do. So next time you’re planning a Florida getaway, give the Gulf side some love—you just might discover your new favorite spot.
