This vibrant beach city named Florida’s most underrated getaway for 2026

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You often hear of travelers flying to Tampa, but most of them don’t settle in the city itself.

Like Los Angeles, where it seems like about 200 separate cities come together to call themselves “LA,” Tampa is one and the same on a much smaller scale, made up of countless sought-after paradises like Clearwater and Siesta Key.

But what about good old “St. Pete” (as the locals call it)?

Experts at Southern life have revealed their insightful picks for the most underrated getaways of 2026, spanning the South, from South Carolina to Mississippi.

But here at Travel Off Path, we understand the appeal of Florida because vitamin D is available at a moment’s notice all year round.

So without further ado, we’ve picked the Sunshine State’s most underrated destination for 2026 from their jam-packed list of treats: the ever-sunny city Saint Petersburg.

How on earth is St. Pete overlooked?

Practically hidden in plain sight, if you cross the scenic Howard Frankland Bridge from Tampa (TPA) and head north to Clearwater or south to Siesta Key, you’ll whiz past St. Pete without realizing how impressive it is.

Both resorts have been locked in a highly publicized duel for years, with each earning the ‘top beach’ award year after year, leaving St Petersburg in the dust.

Don’t get us wrong: many people go on holiday here. However, there is no denying that it should be mentioned among other Floridians beautieslike Destin and the like.

St. Pete has the perks of the big city and postcard beaches without the hassle of Florida’s most overcrowded hotspots on the coast.

You can opt for a quiet retreat from the city bustle, seek out lively coastlines just steps from the beach bars, or even book a deep-sea excursion, because not Owning a boat here is like living in Manhattan without the MetroCard.

If you’re looking for your next beach vacation, a visit to St. Pete should be at the top of your 2026 bucket list, as this beautiful city is still under the hype for some reason.

To be clear, the powerful hurricanes of 2024 left their mark on the region, but there’s no reason to wait to book a trip, as even devastated Fort Myers, an hour and a half away, has made a remarkable recovery.

2026: a year full of parties

If you’re still not sure whether you should choose St. Pete over other sunny locations in Florida, let us tell you why 2026 is particularly attractive.

Besides gleaming white sandy beaches, laid-back atmosphere and inviting waterways to explore by boat, if it has one claim to fame, it’s its beautiful pink pastel color. Vinoy Hotelwhich is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

This is the most bucket list-worthy stay in Southwest Florida, where American presidents vacationed during their heyday.

But this architectural wonder has stood the test of time, and you can bet there will be centennial celebrations and potential packages to score big.

Another reason to keep an eye on your calendar (if people still do) is to make sure you plan your trip well for St. Pete’s ‘Savor’ food and wine festivalusually held in the fall.

Speaking of food, and something you can look forward to next fall is the opening of the city first dining roomwhich is expected to open around the turn of the calendar.

Forget Tampa! Fly direct to St. Pete For cheap

Why deal with the chaos of major airports if you don’t have to? Better yet: why pay too much?

Perhaps America’s trendiest budget airline (Allegiant) has a huge presence at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE).

It is one of five airports in the Southwest Florida region. Many travelers don’t realize that you can fly directly there, as major players like Delta, United and Southwest do not fly here.

Your only 2 options are Allegiant and Sun Country (which only offer seasonal service).

That said, Allegiant flies to PIE from a whopping 60+ cities, so there’s a good chance you can snag a cheap flight.

And if you do fly to St. Pete, you can score an easy loophole to Clearwater if that’s your final destination.

PIE offers the Grouper Airport Expresscharging only $8 for a direct ride to any location on Clearwater Beach, including Marriott Sand Key and Sheraton Sand Key.

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.