Activities in St. Petersburg, FL, for the Outdoor Enthusiast

Activities in St. Petersburg, FL, for the Outdoor Enthusiast


Florida's outdoor attractions are exciting opportunities to soak up some sunshine, explore nature and embark on adventures. Whether you take a peaceful walk along the water or fly out of your comfort zone on an exhilarating zip line tour, activities in St. Petersburg create unforgettable moments. 

Outdoor Activities in St. Pete

If you want to experience invigorating outdoor activities in Florida, St. Petersburg is the place to explore. From irresistible blue waters to peaceful nature paths, this coastal area is full of stunning scenery and opportunities for adventure. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, try the following experiences during your visit:

Enjoy a Bike Ride

Soak up some sunshine on two wheels along the Pinellas Trail. This beautiful trail follows an old railroad line and stretches from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. A journey along the Pinellas Trail takes you through charming small towns, past peaceful parks and across creeks and rivers for delightful views. 

Bike racks and rest stops make this a user-friendly path, and you can grab a bite at various restaurants along your journey. If bike-riding is not your style, you can also enjoy the Pinellas Trail by skating, running or walking.

Soar Over the Treetops

With the wind in your hair and stunning sights below, zip lining is a fantastic way to experience Florida. Empower Adventures in Tampa Bay features an aerial obstacle course with 3,000 feet of exciting zip lines, catwalk bridges, log bridges and rappelling adventures to satisfy your adventurous side. 

Kayak With Dolphins

While Florida features plenty of incredible kayaking locations, Fort De Soto Park is one of the best. As one of Pinellas County's largest parks, this gorgeous oasis consists of five islands and amazing ecosystems. You can access the water via one of the park's floating docks and set off on a kayaking adventure. Keep an eye open for sea life like dolphins and sea turtles as you paddle your way through this breathtaking area.

Paddleboard Through a Nature Preserve

Stand-up paddleboarding is similar to kayaking, but you stand on the board while you paddle. Paddleboarding is a unique way to venture through Florida's ecosystems, and Weedon Island Preserve is a magical place to explore. When you visit this beautiful nature preserve, you can embark on one of two trails. 

The park's north trail starts near the area's old work canal when you exit San Martin Boulevard. It stretches for two miles and takes you through mangrove tunnels until you reach Gandy Beach. The south trail stretches for about four miles and starts at the park's pier.

Ride an Exhilarating Speed Boat

If you are looking for a faster water adventure, consider hitting the water on an exciting speed boat ride. Speed Boat Adventures offers unforgettable speed boat tours and rentals in Tampa and St. Petersburg. These thrilling excursions allow you to experience the beautiful coastlines while zipping through the water.

Schedule a Private Pontoon Adventure

A Boat Day offers relaxing deck boats and exciting Funship boats in Clearwater. With just a short drive from St. Petersburg, you can book a private boat tour and sit back with some refreshing drinks while your captain takes you to beautiful locations. Choose from boats with fun features such as lounge areas, water slides and Bluetooth sound systems.

Dive Into Beautiful Water


While exploring Florida's gorgeous water by boat is fun, sometimes you need to dive in for a refreshing swim. Whether you want to dip your toes in while relaxing in a beach chair or dive into the waves, the area's beaches are irresistible. Plan a fun beach day at any of the following beaches in or near St. Petersburg:

  • St. Pete Beach
  • Madeira Beach
  • Shell Key Preserve
  • Pass-a-Grille Beach
  • Treasure Island
  • Redington Shores
  • Sunset Beach
  • Clearwater Beach
  • Sand Key Park
  • Caladesi Island State Park

Explore Nature and Wildlife

Explore unique habitats to witness interesting wildlife and natural wonders. St. Petersburg is full of fascinating birds, sea creatures and ecosystems. Visiting Honeymoon Island State Park allows you to explore the land mass that a 1921 hurricane separated from Caladesi Island. Whether you snorkel, hike or swim, you can spot some spectacular wildlife on your adventures.

Make your way to Boca Ciega Millennium Park if you want to do some birdwatching. Bring your binoculars because you may catch some glimpses of bird species such as warblers, tanagers, blue grosbeaks, indigo buntings, northern cardinals and great horned owls.

Tour a Botanical Oasis

Wander an extraordinary oasis of lush gardens at St. Petersburg's Sunken Gardens. This floral oasis features various plant species, flamingos and flowing waterfalls. When you visit, you can walk along winding paths and marvel at breathtaking floral displays to experience some of the region's oldest tropical plants.

Fish Florida's Hidden Backwaters

Florida is home to remarkable fishing spots. Cast a line in Tampa Bay or the Gulf of Mexico to catch fish species such as groupers, flounder, king mackerel, sharks, sheepshead, snappers and sea trout. You can also explore the area's best fishing locations on a guided fishing charter. Yachtfish Fishing Charters offers deep-sea and inshore fishing tours with experienced boat captains.

Enjoy Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a unique way to experience the area's quiet trails and breathtaking views. Whether you are a seasoned equestrian or have never tried horseback riding, you can enjoy a memorable trail ride. Cypress Breeze Farm offers guided trail riding tours that allow you to explore tropical woods on horseback and learn about horses as you ride.

Pick Fruit at a Local Farm

Delight your tastebuds with local flavors at a U-Pick farm. Local farms such as Dooley Groves offer the opportunity to pick fruit from their trees. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, warm sunshine and fresh-picked, delicious fruit for a memorable experience when you visit a U-Pick farm. This is also the perfect opportunity to snap some family photos or share a fun day with friends. 

Take a Peaceful Stroll

While St. Petersburg is overflowing with exciting and adventurous activities, sometimes a peaceful stroll is all you need to appreciate this stunning coastal area. You can walk along the shore to feel the warm sand on your feet or you can explore local walking trails in the following areas:

  • Fred Howard Park
  • Palm Harbor
  • Wall Springs Park
  • John S. Taylor Park
  • Largo Central Park Nature Preserve
  • Lake Seminole Park
  • Walsingham Park
  • Crescent Lake

Book a Stay at Kampgrounds of America

St. Petersburg / Madeira Beach KOA Holiday offers the perfect place to stay while you enjoy all of the area's best outdoor activities. Explore the nearby Pinellas Trail, visit one of St. Petersburg's white sand beaches or take a zip lining adventure before relaxing around a crackling campfire in the evening. 

When you stay at KOA, you can experience local thrills or have fun steps away from your campsite. St. Petersburg / Madeira Beach KOA Holiday offers fantastic recreational activities such as bicycle and kayak rentals, hot tubs and a heated pool, shuffleboard, miniature golf, outdoor games, a fitness center and seasonal activities. 

You can stay in a Tent or RV Site or choose from various lodging options to enjoy a comfortable stay with convenient amenities

Book a stay at KOA to start your St. Petersburg adventures.


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