Braendel Painting

Sandcastles made of the white sand on St. Petersburg Municipal Beach seem more magical when you look out over the clear water that makes its way slowly up to the shoreline. The kids will love playing in the surf all afternoon as you bask in the invitingly warm Florida sunshine or maybe take a little snooze. But don't forget the sunscreen!

They say that laughter is the best medicine. If that idea is true, then the doctors are definitely in to keep you healthy with a sizable dose of sidesplitting laughter. See some of the country's top comedians take the stage at St. Petersburg's Coconuts Comedy Club. Some of these hysterically funny modern day court jesters have been the guests of Jay Leno and David Letterman as well as fixtures on HBO and Showtime specials.

If you feel the need for speed, then make a beeline to the Festivals of Speed that is held every February in St. Petersburg. This revved-up three-day festival presents the finest in jets, planes, helicopters, yachts, motorcycles and cars that are all designed to raise adrenaline levels. In addition to these luxurious exhibitions, gourmet foods and premium cocktails add an even higher level of distinctive flavor to the fast-paced proceedings.

Nature and outdoor enthusiasts flock to Weedon Island Preserve located in Tampa's beautiful St. Petersburg. Go ahead, take a hike on miles of nature trails or throw a line off the side of the fishing pier. Get a bird's eye view of nature from atop the observation tower. Float your boat at the paddling trails and get schooled on the area's fascinating history at the Cultural and Natural History Center after your boatride. You won't run out of adventures at this park.