One of the Florida Gulf Coast’s main draws for tourists, besides our pristine beaches, is the seemingly endless array of watersport possibilities along the coast. When you choose Gulf Winds Resort, you’ll always be within walking distance of Upham Beach Park, delicious local cuisine, and eclectic shopping. Many of our St Pete Beach vacation rentals overlook the vast Gulf of Mexico, where you’ll see dozens of locals and tourists alike enjoying the constant sunshine by jet skiing, kayaking, swimming, and parasailing through the teal blue water. There are dozens of watersports to choose from, but here are three of our favorites.
Jet Ski Rentals
There’s just something special about cruising through the open gulf on a speedy jet ski. Woody’s Watersports in nearby Johns Pass Village has the largest fleet of jet ski rentals in the Tampa area. Woody’s is known for its five-star customer service and up-to-date jet ski rentals. You’ll be able to cruise through Boca Ciega Bay, Tampa Bay, and the vast Gulf of Mexico. We also recommend exploring Shell Key Preserve, Egmont Key State Park, and Fort De Soto Park – remember to bring along your snorkeling gear!
Parasailing
There are several parasailing outfitters in the Tampa area, but EAGLE Parasail, a division of Mad Beach Water Sports, is undoubtedly the favorite among guests here at Gulf Winds Resort. EAGLE is located approximately 300 feet from Woody’s Watersports, making them a perfect one-two tandem. Parasailing high above the Gulf of Mexico is an exhilarating, otherworldly experience, making it one of the top three things to do in St Pete Beach. EAGLE’s world-class equipment, including their ultra-fast speedboats, are strong enough to hold three individuals in the air at one time.
Kayaking
Doo’s Amazing Tours is a straightforward 24-minute drive from our St Pete Beach vacation rentals – and trust us, it’s worth the trip to Downtown St Petersburg. Doo’s offers a variety of bicycle, segway, and SUP tours, but their two-hour kayaking tour to Weedon Island Preserve is a magical experience. For just $50 per person, you’ll be able to kayak through beautiful mangroves where you’re likely to spot exotic birds, dolphins, and manatees. These tours are also educational as you’ll learn about early Native American cultures who once inhabited this lush land.
Ocean-View St Pete Beach Vacation Rentals
When you’re not parasailing, jet-skiing, or kayaking, we highly recommend treating the family to beach activities, snorkeling adventures, or a visit to the nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Despite that fact that Gulf Winds Resort rests approximately 50 feet from Upham Beach Park, we’re still one of the most-affordable Gulf Coast resorts. Our ocean-view suites are also steps from an exclusive heated pool! Browse through our St Pete Beach rentals online, or give us a call today at 1-888-689-0833 to book a well-deserved family escape to Florida’s breathtaking Gulf Coast.