Located at the southern end of St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille Beach has long been considered the jewel in the crown of west coast beaches. There is a lot of beach, the sand is white and powdery, and the emerald gulf is warm and inviting. A beachside café offers breakfast and lunch.
Escape to the “no high rise” beach paradise at this land’s end Florida’s beach community. Though officially part of St. Pete Beach, where Gulf Boulevard winds into Pass-a-Grille Way the visitor has a glimpse of “Old Florida.” Four miles of undeveloped public beach along Gulf Way on the Gulf of Mexico wrap around the end of the key to meet Boca Ciega Bay on the harbor side of Pass-a-Grille. Savor the laid-back relaxed style of this community – Hemingway would have called it “the quiet Key West.” Go on a shelling or snorkeling excursion to Shell Key, watch the dolphins play; or enjoy gentle sea breezes on a sunset cruise. Take a stroll on 8th Avenue, where you’ll find galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. A unique Florida’s Beach experience awaits the visitor in Pass-a-Grille.
Pass-A-Grille beach is an extension of St Pete Beach The VERY LARGE pink Don Cesar hotel is located at the entrance of this very sunny beach. This beach has 4 miles of undeveloped land (no high rise condos). The city of Pass-A-Grille Beach was incorporated into the city of St. Petersburg Beach in 1957 and in 1989 a section of Pass-A-Grille was declared a National Historic District. Great place to view a Florida sunset.
Pass-A-Grille is one of the most peaceful and romantic beach communities on the Floridian west coast. Designated a historic distric, the community has 354 historic buildings and plenty of charm. The beach itself is 4 miles long and a true tropical oasis. While there are a handful of restaurants and fishing is quite good, the best thing to do in Pass-A-Grille is to simply relax and bask in the sun.
Pass-A-Grille is located on the southern most part of Pinellas County’s barrier beaches. The village is only one block wide and 31 blocks long.
History
Pass-A-Grille was the first beach community on the Gulf of Mexico to be developed as a weekend residental spot. It attracted a wealthy individuals seeking a tropical hideaway, and was home to numerous fishermen, lubmer men, and homesteaders. The village was merged with St. Petersburg Beach in 1957, but not without resistance from local residents who wanted to remain independent.
Attractions
The Gulf Beach Historical Museum, located on 115 10th Ave, exhibits the history of Pinellas County’s barrier islands through photos, articrafts, and news clippings.
Shopping & Restaurants
Eigth Avenue is the commercial hub where you can find boutiques, restaurants and galleries. Asado Café, located on 118 8th Ave., makes scrumptious Cuban and Thai food. Sea Critter Café offers casual seafood entrees in a laid back environment.
Parking & Amenities
There is plenty of parking in front of the beach. Cost is only $1.00 per hour. Additionaly, the beach has plenty of restrooms and showers.
Transportation
Suncoast Beach Trolley goes throughout many of the neighboring beaches, including Treasure Island and Clearwater Beach.
When St. Pete Beach is overcrowded, retreat to laid-back Pass-a-Grille. This gay-friendly stretch of beach has eccentric ambience, unique shops and a bustling atmosphere. It's equally attractive to families, kids, singles and cozy couples. One of the most pleasing beaches in the area, its tiny but pristine shoreline is scattered with pretty pink shells and billowing sea oats. Pastel, wooden-framed homes dot the surrounding neighborhood.
Outdoor Focus
While the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce will list the latest upcoming local activities, you don't need a calendar to shell, sunbathe or stroll the dunes. Other outdoor events include:
Shell Key Shuttle: Take an eco-tour to explore and learn about unspoiled Shell Key, just south of St. Pete Beach.
Dolphin-watching: Reserve a sunset or dolphin-watching cruise and let nature be your entertainment.
Area Attractions
Hurricane Restaurant: Drop by the renowned Hurricane Restaurant and see what all the fuss is about. Be sure to try their famous grouper sandwich while enjoying undisturbed views of the beach.
The Salvador Dali Museum: The world's most comprehensive collection of Dali art is the only Florida west coast attraction to earn three coveted Michelin Guide stars.
Area Events
Beach Goes Pop (May): This annual event features free concerts right on the beach.
Gift Market (November): Here, merchants showcase their wares in historic St. Petersburg.
Nightlife
While the Hurricane is always lively, Gators on the Pass, Treasure Island, has the world's longest waterfront bar overlooking John's Pass.
Accommodation
Beachfront resorts and historic inns provide lodgings as unique as Pass-A-Grille itself.
Need to Know
Location:
The south end of St. Pete Beach.
Weather:
361 days of sunshine per year.
Average annual temperature is 73 F.
Note: The beach's position between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay can create dangerous riptides. Stay out of the water on windy days.
Facilities:
Restrooms
Concessions
Showers
No lifeguards
No pets on the beach
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