Come Spring, Come Florida

According to Punxsutawney Phil there’s six more weeks of winter. This gives everyone in the northern half of the U.S. more reason to make the annual pilgrimage down to Florida and take advantage of discount hotels.

Tampa Bay is the Place to Stay

If you’ve yet to enjoy what’s on tap in the Tampa Bay area during springtime, you’re depriving yourself of a quality vacation. Besides Tampa and St. Pete, there are a number of other reasons to come to the area. Clearwater Beach, Dunedin, and spring training all immediately come to mind.

Beach and Baseball

Clearwater Beach dominates the competition in the Tampa Bay area. Popular with tourists and locals alike, the fine, white sands attract countless visitors each year. Clearwater Beach regularly stands atop the list of top ranked beaches of Florida, if not the country. Bars, restaurants, resorts, Pier 60, the beach has it all. However, come March when baseball spring training begins, the beach isn’t so crowded. The Philadelphia Phillies hold camp in Clearwater, while the Toronto Blue Jays have camp in neighboring Dunedin. The stadiums are friendly and welcoming, providing a postcard perfect vacation.

Small Town Florida

Many people aren’t familiar with Dunedin, but if you’re looking for a slower, quieter vacation, off the beaten tourist path, then this is your spot. Frequently called “Funedin” by the locals, this cozy hamlet north of Clearwater, prides itself on big parties in the spring. There is a large street festival for St. Patrick’s Day as well as a large Mardi Gras parade, that usually attracts around 30,000. Dunedin is also home to Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island State Park. Caladesi was once voted #1 beach in the country by Dr. Beach.

Come on Down

Time is of the essence, as many Sunshine State pilgrims have probably already made their plans and reservations. However, there are plenty of hotels in the area, so you’ll have no problems finding a place to stay. Whether in Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater Beach or Dunedin, you’ll always feel comfortable and welcome.