Neighborhood

St. Pete Pier

4 · 163 reviews Travelers Choice
St. Pete Pierajay_suresh · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
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St. Pete Pier is a modern reimagining of the city's historic waterfront, stretching into Tampa Bay from downtown St. Petersburg. Opened in 2020, this 26-acre complex replaced the previous pier and has quickly become a beloved gathering spot. The pier itself is a sweeping, crescent-shaped walkway that offers panoramic views of the bay and the city skyline. Along the way, you'll find the Pier Approach with its splash pad and lawn, the Spa Beach with a playground and kayak launch, and the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, an educational hub about local marine life. The terminal building at the pier's end houses several restaurants and a rooftop bar. Fishing is allowed from designated areas, and there are plenty of benches and shaded spots to relax. The pier also hosts regular events like sunset yoga, outdoor concerts, and farmers markets. It's a place where locals and tourists alike come to stroll, bike, dine, and enjoy the Gulf Coast breeze.

Don't miss

  • Walk or bike the entire length of the pier for stunning bay views
  • Visit the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center to touch stingrays and learn about local ecosystems
  • Let kids play at the Splash Pad and playground on Spa Beach
  • Dine at the pier's restaurants, like the Teak or Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille
  • Fish from the designated fishing areas (no license required)

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit St. Pete Pier

You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine St. Pete Pier with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.

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How travelers rate it

5 star
91
4 star
38
3 star
19
2 star
9
1 star
6

Know before you go

  • Dogs are welcome on leashes in most outdoor areas, but not inside buildings or on the beach.
  • Bike racks are available; you can also rent bikes from nearby shops.
  • Bring sunscreen and water, shade is limited on the pier itself.
  • Fishing is free and no license is needed, but follow posted rules and catch limits.

A bit of history

St. Petersburg's first municipal pier opened in 1889 as a railroad extension. The iconic inverted pyramid pier, built in 1973, was demolished in 2015 after decades of debate. The current St. Pete Pier, designed by Rogers Partners and ASD, opened in July 2020, blending recreation, dining, and environmental education.

Common questions

Is there parking at the pier?

There is no on-site parking, but several paid lots and garages are within a 5-minute walk, including the Sundial Garage and the South Core Garage.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes, picnics are allowed on the lawn and benches. Glass containers are prohibited.

Are there restrooms?

Yes, public restrooms are located near the playground and inside the terminal building.

Is swimming allowed?

Swimming is not permitted from the pier, but you can swim at nearby Spa Beach, a small sandy area with lifeguards in season.

What events are held here?

The pier hosts a variety of events, including the weekly Saturday Morning Market, sunset yoga, and holiday fireworks. Check the official calendar.

Can I rent kayaks or paddleboards?

Yes, rentals are available from vendors on Spa Beach during peak season.

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