Drive south down Gulf Boulevard until the resorts stop and the buildings shrink, and you are in Pass-a-Grille. It is the oldest part of St Pete Beach and the least developed, a historic district of low houses, a single main street and the best sunset on this coast.
Most visitors never get this far south. That is precisely the appeal.
The beach
Pass-a-Grille Beach runs down the western side and is quieter than the resort stretch because there is nowhere large to stay. Parking is metered along the front.
At the southern point you can see Shell Key across the channel and, on a clear evening, Egmont Key beyond it.
Merry Pier and the boats
Merry Pier is the working heart of Pass-a-Grille: a fish market, a bait shop and the departure point for the Shell Key Shuttle and several fishing boats. It is also the best place to watch pelicans behave badly.
Eating and drinking
Paradise Grille sits on the sand at the point and is the sunset spot. Behind it, Eighth Avenue has a handful of small restaurants and galleries in a two-block stretch you can walk end to end in five minutes.
Last updated August 8, 2026. Something changed? Tell us.
More guides
- The best beach bars in St Pete BeachToes in the sand, live music most nights and sunset over the Gulf. The beach bars locals actually drink in across St Pete Beach and Treasure Island.
- Boat tours and dolphin cruises from St Pete BeachDolphin cruises, sunset sails, Shell Key and Egmont Key trips. Every boat tour operator running out of St Pete Beach, Treasure Island and John's Pass.
- Fishing charters in St Pete Beach: how to pick oneInshore, nearshore or deep sea, party boat or private charter. How to choose a St Pete Beach fishing trip, and every captain running from these marinas.