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St. Pete Beach vs. Clearwater Beach: Which Should You Visit?

6/18/2025

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Family on St. Pete Beach
If you're planning a Florida beach getaway, chances are you've come across two of the Gulf Coast's most beloved destinations: St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach. Both offer sugar-white sand, stunning sunsets, and endless sunshine—but each has its own vibe, attractions, and hidden gems. So how do you choose?
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As the Crystal Bay Historic Hotel, nestled in the heart of St. Petersburg and just minutes from St. Pete Beach, we're here to help you decide with a friendly breakdown of what makes each beach special—and why staying in St. Pete just might give you the best of both worlds.
Pass-a-Grille Beach
Pass-a-Grille Beach
Photo by Jared. CC 2.0 
Pier 60 at sunset
Pier 60 Clearwater Beach
Photo by Matthew Paulson. CC 2.0

Atmosphere & Vibe

  • St. Pete Beach: More laid-back and charming, St. Pete Beach is known for its old Florida vibe, cozy beachfront cafes, and local favorites like Pass-a-Grille. It's the kind of place where you can take a peaceful morning walk along the shore without crowds, then spend the afternoon sipping coffee at a beachside café. For travelers seeking peace, authenticity, and a local's perspective, St. Pete Beach feels like a step back into a simpler, sunnier time.
  • Clearwater Beach​​: Lively and bustling, Clearwater draws big crowds thanks to its wide beach, Pier 60, and abundance of tourist-friendly attractions. This is where you’ll find street performers, souvenir shops, and beachside hotels with rooftop bars. It’s ideal for families, first-time Florida visitors, or anyone looking to pack in as much activity as possible.

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The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Getaway in St. Pete: Beaches, Parks & Pet Perks at Crystal Bay Hotel

6/5/2025

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Dog at a park with balls
Photo credit: Jessi Smith. "Katsu at Park." All rights reserved. (Grand-dog of one of our staff!)

​🐾 Bring Your Best Friend Along to St. Pete!

St. Petersburg, Florida isn’t just a sunny destination for beach lovers—it’s a paradise for pups, too. From sandy shores to scenic parks, the city is packed with dog-friendly activities your four-legged companion will love. And at Crystal Bay Hotel, we make sure your pet feels just as welcome as you do.

Pet-Friendly Stays at Crystal Bay Hotel

Photo of pet-friendly room at Crystal Bay Hotel
Our historic hotel offers 8 pet-friendly rooms, each designed to make your stay comfortable for both you and your furry friend. There are no breed or size restrictions, and we welcome up to two pets per room. Whether you’re traveling with a tiny terrier or a gentle giant, there’s a place for them here.

Upon arrival, every pet receives a complimentary welcome treat bag—a little Crystal Bay touch for your dog or cat to enjoy.

​While we don’t have designated pet relief areas, our beautiful historic neighborhood is perfect for peaceful morning walks. Guests are welcome to explore the charming streets around the hotel, and we’ve placed pet waste stations (trash cans) at both the north and south entrances for your convenience.
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Pets are allowed in all outdoor areas, as well as our cozy lobby and library. We just ask that they stay properly leashed and under their owner’s control at all times.

​Top Dog-Friendly Beaches & Parks in St. Pete

Jogging on Fort Desoto Dog Beach
Photo Credit: "Jogging," Konstantin Zamkov, CC 2.0
🌊​ Fort De Soto Dog Beach & Paw Playground
  • One of the best dog beaches in the country
  • Separate fenced areas for large and small dogs
  • Off-leash fun right by the water
  • Dog showers and drinking stations
🌴 Kenwood Dog Park
  • Shaded, fenced-in play zones
  • Benches and water fountains
  • Located in the charming Historic Kenwood neighborhood

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Best Time to Visit St. Petersburg: A Season-by-Season Guide to Sun, Festivals, and Charm

5/22/2025

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Photo of Crystal Bay Hotel
When's the Best Time to Visit St. Pete? Let’s Break It Down by Season
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Whether you're chasing sunshine, looking for local flavor, or just need a quiet beach escape, St. Petersburg, Florida delivers all year long. With warm Gulf breezes, vibrant festivals, and fewer crowds than its touristy neighbors, it's easy to see why St. Pete remains a favorite. And tucked into its historic charm, Crystal Bay Hotel offers the ideal place to rest and recharge no matter the season.
“Crystal Bay is such a charming place. Breakfast was delicious, the room was clean and our stay was spectacular.” – Noemi
Butterfly in spring garden
Woman on beach in summer
Fall sunset on beach
Woman drinking coffee on the veranda in winter

Spring (March–May): Sunshine, Festivals & Fresh Starts

Book early for the Firestone Grand Prix and enjoy blooming gardens from your Veranda Room.

Spring is arguably the best time to visit. Temperatures float between 77–87°F, rain is minimal, and flowers (and festivals) are in full bloom.
Top Events:
  • Firestone Grand Prix – A must-see for motorsport fans.
  • Tampa Bay Blues Festival – Set against Vinoy Park's breezy waterfront.
  • Mainsail Art Festival – Fine art, crafts, and live music.
  • Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival – Famous for its jaw-dropping sand sculptures.
Crystal Bay Tip: Spring fills up fast—especially around the Grand Prix. Book your room early to lock in your preferred dates and take advantage of Veranda Rooms with garden views.

Summer (June–August): Beach Days & Bold Celebrations

Rainbow flag for Pride
Fireworks over St. Pete Pier
Photo of Crystal Bay Hotel Pool in summer
Photo credit: Pride Flag, City of St. Pete, CC 2.0. The Fourth at the St. Pete Pier, City of St. Pete, CC 2.0
It’s hot. It’s humid. And it’s alive with color. From rainbow flags to fireworks, summer in St. Pete is for sun-lovers and spirited souls.

Weather:
  • Highs in the 90s°F
  • Expect afternoon rain showers (pack an umbrella)

Don’t Miss:
  • St. Pete Pride – Florida's largest LGBTQ+ celebration.
  • 4th of July at St. Pete Pier – Fireworks and waterfront views.

Crystal Bay Cool Down:
  • Take a dip in the pool.
  • Book a massage (starting at $85 for 60 mins).
  • Relax in our shaded butterfly garden.

Travel Tip: A windshield sunshade is a small item that makes a big difference during Florida summers.​

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From Overpriced to Overjoyed: How One Hotel is Redefining Value

5/5/2025

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Looking for Something More from Your Travel Experience?

Have you ever stayed at a place that checked all the boxes on paper, but just didn’t feel special? Maybe it was too busy, too impersonal, or just a little too... expected. If so, you’re not alone. Many travelers today are seeking more than just a bed—they want a stay that’s warm, memorable, and filled with character.

At Crystal Bay Hotel in sunny St. Petersburg, Florida, we’re redefining what value means in travel. Nestled near the beach and rich with history, our hotel blends vintage charm, personalized hospitality, and thoughtful comfort—all at a price that makes sense.
Crystal Bay

What Modern Travelers Are Really Looking For

​
We hear it often: people are craving more than a place to sleep. Here’s what we hear from travelers like you:
​
  • “Every hotel looks and feels the same.”
  • “I want charm and history—not another generic chain.”
  • “I’m willing to pay for quality, but I hate overpaying for basics.”
  • “I miss the magic and personality that travel used to bring.”

If that resonates with you, you’ll feel right at home at Crystal Bay.

Today’s travelers want a place that makes them feel something. Travelers who value unique experiences, peaceful stays, and meaningful details are choosing places like Crystal Bay Hotel.

​Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends, exploring a new destination, or just looking to relax, there’s something special about a hotel that feels like it was made with you in mind.

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Where Old Florida Lives On: A Traveler’s Guide to St. Pete’s Historic Side

4/20/2025

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Photo of family around the
Photo credit: Cathy Burns. "Grandkids in St. Pete"
When most people think of St. Petersburg, Florida, they picture sugar-sand beaches, colorful sunsets, and waterfront tiki bars. And while the coastal beauty of St. Pete is undeniably magical, there’s another side to the Sunshine City that often goes unnoticed: its rich, vintage soul. Welcome to the historic heart of St. Pete—where cobblestone charm, Old Florida architecture, and timeless hospitality live on.

If you're a traveler who loves a story, appreciates character over cookie-cutter, and wants a deeper connection to the places you visit, this side of St. Pete is for you.
Peacock
Photo credit: Saimaphotographer/Shutterstock.com
Sacred Lands: Where History, Nature, and Peacocks Come Together
Just under two miles from the Crystal Bay Hotel, Sacred Lands Preservation and Education offers a serene and historically rich experience along the shores of Boca Ciega Bay. This privately owned site encompasses one of the best-preserved Tocobaga Indian mounds in the Tampa Bay area, known as the Anderson-Narváez Mound. The Tocobaga people inhabited this region for centuries, and the mound likely served as a ceremonial gathering place, offering insights into their complex society. Visitors can explore the grounds through guided history tours led by David Anderson, whose family has been dedicated to preserving this land since the 1940s.   
 

Beyond its archaeological significance, Sacred Lands is renowned for its vibrant community of peacocks that roam freely across the property, adding a touch of natural beauty to the historical site. The preserve also hosts various events, including musical performances and educational programs, fostering a deep connection between the community and the rich cultural heritage of the area. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Sacred Lands offers a unique glimpse into Florida’s past and present.

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Eat Like a Local: 5 Burger Spots You Can’t Miss in St. Petersburg

3/27/2025

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Photo of cheeseburger
If there’s one thing St. Pete locals know how to do right—besides sunshine and sunsets—it’s burgers. Whether you’re craving a classic cheeseburger or something a little more gourmet, our city’s got you covered. And lucky for guests of the Crystal Bay Hotel, some of the best burger joints in town are just a short stroll or scenic drive away. We’ve rounded up five must-try spots where you can sink your teeth into mouthwatering patties, from cozy neighborhood favorites to creative, chef-driven bites. Hungry yet? Let’s dive in.

1. Dead Bob's: Burgers, Beers, and Old-School Vibes Just Minutes Away
  • Distance from Crystal Bay Hotel: ~1 mile
  • Google Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Address: 6716 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33707
  • Website: deadbobsstpete.com

​Dead Bob's is a local institution where you can catch the game, listen to music, or simply enjoy a no-fuss burger with a cold beer. The atmosphere is casual and full of character—think local dive and a jukebox playing your favorite old-school hits. Their "Philly Bob Burger" is a must-try: topped with shaved sirloin, grilled onions, and gooey American cheese. Bonus points for the stuffed tots, which are like tiny bites of heaven. This is comfort food with a old-school twist, just a mile from your room at Crystal Bay.
2. Engine No. 9: Gourmet Burgers with Game Day Energy

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7 Hidden Gems Near St. Pete Beach: Local Attractions Guide

3/25/2025

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Looking for unique experiences near St. Pete Beach? Here are 7 spots that go beyond the usual beach activities. From nature trails to historic districts, these are perfect for exploring Florida's charm:
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  1. Sunken Gardens: A century-old botanical garden with 50,000+ tropical plants, waterfalls, and flamingos. Admission: $15 adults, $12 seniors, $6 kids.
  2. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve: 245 acres of trails through 6 ecosystems with wildlife like gopher tortoises and wood-warblers.
  3. Weedon Island Preserve: Coastal boardwalks, a 45-ft observation tower, and a cultural history center.
  4. Relaxing at Fort De Soto Park: Enjoy kayaking, fishing, and exploring the park’s diverse habitats. They even have a dog-friendly beach.
  5. Kayaking Through Shell Key Preserve: Paddle through lush mangrove tunnels in clear kayaks, allowing an unobstructed view of the marine life beneath you.
  6. John’s Pass Boardwalk: Shopping and Dining​: Waterfront shopping, dining, and events like the upcoming Seafood Festival (March 28–30, 2025).
  7. Pass-a-Grille Historic District: Old Florida vibes with historic homes, unique shops, and beachfront dining.

Quick Tip: Visit early for cooler weather and active wildlife. Don't forget sunscreen, water, and comfy shoes.

Discover the Enchanting Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg ...


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Inside the Crystal Bay Butterfly Garden: A Natural Sanctuary in St. Pete

3/21/2025

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Imagine stepping out for your morning coffee and being greeted by the flutter of monarch wings, the soft rustle of native Florida milkweed, and the peaceful buzz of a thriving pollinator garden. Welcome to the Crystal Bay Butterfly Garden, a serene, living habitat thoughtfully cultivated to support one of nature’s most delicate and iconic creatures: the butterfly.

A Garden with Purpose
Established in 2018, the Crystal Bay Butterfly Garden was created with a clear mission in mind: to provide a safe haven for pollinators, especially monarch butterflies, whose populations are facing steep decline across North America. Our dedicated gardener has lovingly planted an array of native Florida plants, including milkweed, the essential host plant for monarch caterpillars.

This vibrant space doesn’t just add beauty to our grounds; it plays a crucial role in local conservation. Guests often spot butterflies fluttering between blossoms or caterpillars munching happily on leaves. It’s a peaceful reminder that even the smallest creatures deserve a home.

Why Monarchs Matter
Monarch butterflies are more than just beautiful; they are a vital part of our ecosystem. But these iconic pollinators are in trouble. In 2024, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed adding monarchs to the Endangered Species Act list as a threatened species.

And the statistics are sobering:
  • By 2080, the probability of extinction for eastern monarchs ranges from 56% to 74%. For western monarchs, that probability jumps to greater than 95%.

At Crystal Bay, we believe every garden, no matter how small, can help shift those odds.

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    Author

    Written by Cathy Burns, our Marketing Manager with the assistance of generative AI. 

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7401 Central Ave.
St. Petersburg, FL 33710
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