Beach traffic sucks — but you don’t have to get stuck in it.
Whether you’re down for the day or hanging out for the week, there’s no need to get in the car to move up or down the beach. There are multiple forms of transportation on St. Pete Beach (in addition to your own feet; this place is pretty walkable). Here are your best options, and the pros and cons of each.
Rent a scooter/beach cruiser. Daily bike/scooter rentals are available at Lenny’s and Finish Line Scooters. Pro: Great way to experience the beach. Con: Reckless drivers on Gulf Boulevard.
“Free” beach shuttle. Rides are free to anywhere on the beach; drivers rely on tips. Pro: Cheap, drivers know the area. Con: Can be unreliable (don’t even bother after midnight).
Suncoast Beach Trolley. Offered by Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, service runs from Pass-A-Grille to Clearwater Beach. Pro: Cheap, worry-free, and yay! Public transit. Con: Buses run only every half hour or so.
Taxi. BATS Taxi is headquartered on the beach, and plenty of other cabs are around. Pro: Drivers know the area, service is prompt. Con: Pricey; can be scarce at high-demand times, like when the bars close.
Uber. If you have the app on your phone, there are likely drivers around to take you up and down the beach. Pro: Probably your quickest bet. Con: Your driver may not know the area well and might get stuck in the traffic you’re trying to avoid.
