5 fun family day trips and staycations near St. Pete

As summer break winds down, not every family has squeezed in those big travel plans. The good news? If you live in the St. Pete and Tampa Bay area, you’re already in one of the most popular vacation spots in the country. Instead of the stress of long road trips or hectic flights, try easy local getaways that are just as memorable. From quick day trips to fun staycations, here are some of our favorite family-friendly escapes right here in the St. Pete and Tampa Bay area.

5 perfect family-friendly day trips near St. Pete

SkyBeach Resort

SkyBeach Resort is dreamy spot perched across from the beautiful Sunshine Skyway Bridge. This stunningly renovated property exudes old Florida charm and relaxing vibes.

Families with kids of all ages can enjoy the beach, kayaking, paddle boarding, rentable bikes, hammocks, poolside lounging, live music, art activities, and more. The menu at SkyBar + Grille also offers something for every age and taste.

And the cherry on top? Paradeco Coffee is now on location, fueling parents with healthy breakfasts and energizing brews as we soak up the sunshine and water views.

Stay Options: Day Pass, Cabana Rental, Overnight stays
Location:  6800 Sunshine Skyway Lane S, St. Petersburg, FL

Splash Harbour Water Park

Splash Harbour Water Park is a hidden gem within walking distance of beautiful Indian Rocks Beach. As the only water park in Pinellas County, it’s a fantastic family-friendly destination for a full day of fun in the sun.

The park offers a wide range of attractions, including water slides, splash zones, a lazy river, a gem mining area, and multiple pools. We especially appreciated the zero-depth entry pool for younger swimmers. Older kids, teens, and adults will also find plenty to enjoy, from bigger slides to deeper swim zones.

Splash Harbour is thoughtfully designed for families. There are plenty of loungers with umbrellas, shaded cabanas available for rent, clean family bathrooms, and life jackets in all sizes. The on-site food options are affordable and kid-friendly, and adults will appreciate the full-service bar. Parking is free and conveniently close.

Stay Options: Day Pass, Overnight stay at Holiday Inn & Suites Harborside, which is connected to the waterpark
Address: 399 2nd Street, Indian Rocks Beach, FL

Glamping at Hillsborough River State Park

If you’ve ever been curious about glamping—glamorous camping—our recent stay with Timberline Tampa at Hillsborough River State Park was the perfect introduction. We stayed in a spacious 14×16 safari-style tent that offered the comforts of home while keeping us immersed in nature. Inside, there was a queen bed and bunk beds with plush pillow-top mattresses, air conditioning,a ceiling fan, a mini fridge, and even a Keurig. Thoughtful touches like string lights, and plenty of outlets made it feel cozy and convenient, while the outdoor setup—complete with hammocks, a picnic table, and a fire pit—gave us plenty of ways to unwind and connect as a family. It’s also pet-friendly, so no one gets left behind.

Timberline offers fun extras like kayak rentals, yard games, and themed “little glamper” boxes for kids, which added to the experience. For families who love the idea of camping but aren’t quite ready to rough it, glamping with Timberline is a perfect blend of comfort and outdoor adventure—just enough nature to recharge without giving up your coffee maker.

Stay Options: Multiple tent sizes and night rental options
Location: 15402 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL

Tourist for the Day at The St. Pete Pier

The St. Pete Pier is the perfect spot for Tampa Bay area families to play tourist without leaving town. With stunning waterfront views and a variety of attractions, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring. Kids can cool off at the splash pad, climb and play in two large shaded playgrounds, or ride bikes and scooters along the wide, scenic paths. The calm waters and lounge chairs at Spa Beach offer a relaxing break, and the fishing deck gives both kids and adults a chance to cast a line.

Beyond the outdoor fun, families can explore the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center for hands-on marine science exhibits, or grab a bite at one of several restaurants and snack spots along the pier. From casual cafés to ice cream stands and fresh seafood, there’s something to satisfy everyone. Whether you’re looking to learn, play, or just relax by the water, the St. Pete Pier offers a fun, easy, and affordable way for locals to enjoy a mini getaway close to home

Stay Options: Daycation – Hours of fun
Location: 600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL

Concierge Beach Services: Beachfront Bellhop

Planning a beach day with kids is an awesome way to “Staycay”, but can quickly shift from fun to frustrating— hauling loads of gear, setting up in the heat, and wrangling little ones at the same time is a lot. After one too many chaotic outings, we discovered Beachfront Bellhop Tampa Bay, a local, parent-run business that completely changed our beach day experience. Imagine this – you show up to the beach and everything is waiting for you—chairs (even kid-sized ones), towels, cabanas, toys, tables, a cooler with ice packs, and even a lockbox for valuables. They think of everything, and you actually get to enjoy the day!

Best of all, when the kids are sandy, tired, and ready to head home, walk to the car for a stress-free exit. Beachfront Bellhop Tampa Bay makes it incredibly easy to enjoy the beach like you’re on vacation, even when you’re just a short drive from home.

Stay Options: Multiple party sizes are available
Location: Set-ups at Pass-a-grille, Sunset Beach, and Indian Shores

Whether you’re looking to cool off at a water park, explore resort life, lounge on the beach without the hassle, or enjoy a taste of nature with a twist, these local adventures make it easy to soak up the best of summer—no plane tickets required. These nearby gems offer fun, convenience, and just enough novelty to make your family feel like you’re on vacation, without ever leaving the Tampa Bay area.