Choosing Between Two Great Beach Towns
Treasure Island and St Pete Beach sit right next to each other on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and both offer beautiful beaches, warm water, and unforgettable sunsets. But the experience on each one is surprisingly different.
If you are planning a trip and trying to decide which beach is right for you, this guide breaks down everything that matters: the vibe, the beaches, the food, the crowds, the cost, and what each area is best for.
Beaches: Wide and Calm vs Lively and Active
Both destinations offer soft white sand, gentle waves, and warm Gulf water, but the feel is very different.
Treasure Island
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Wide, spacious beaches
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Plenty of room to spread out
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Relaxing, peaceful, classic Florida atmosphere
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Perfect for long walks, shell hunting, and families
Treasure Island is more open and less crowded. The beach feels almost endless, creating a slower, more peaceful experience.
St Pete Beach
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Narrower but still beautiful shoreline
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Lots of beach bars and high energy spots
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Popular with younger travelers and groups
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More activity and more people
If you prefer a more active, social beach scene, St Pete Beach may be the better match.
Atmosphere: Laid Back vs Lively
Both towns have charm, but their personalities are distinct.
Treasure Island
Quiet, friendly, nostalgic.
It feels like classic Florida: mom and pop restaurants, beach cottages, family owned hotels, and low rise buildings.
Perfect for travelers who want simple, peaceful days on the beach.
St Pete Beach
Fun, energetic, social.
It has more nightlife, larger resorts, and a busier pace.
Great for travelers who want a little more activity and entertainment.
Dining: Walkable Spots vs Endless Choices
Both areas are known for fresh seafood and Gulf Coast dining, but the vibe differs.
Treasure Island
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Walkable, casual restaurants
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Great local spots near the beach
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Family friendly dining everywhere
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Easy to get a table, even in season
Perfect if you love simple, affordable, beachfront meals.
St Pete Beach
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Larger variety of restaurants
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Trendy bars and rooftop lounges
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More upscale choices
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More crowds, longer waits
Better for travelers who want lots of dining options in one place.
Crowds: Relaxed vs Busy
Treasure Island
Less crowded, more space, slower pace.
You will feel like you can breathe, relax, and spread out.
St Pete Beach
Busy year round, especially at the big resorts.
More nightlife, more traffic, more people.
Family Friendliness
Treasure Island
A top choice for families thanks to:
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Wide beaches
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Shallow water
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Safe, calm atmosphere
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Walkable restaurants
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Easy parking
It is relaxed, spacious, and ideal for young kids.
St Pete Beach
Family friendly too, but more crowded and busier.
Better for families with older kids or teens who want more activity.
Cost and Value
Treasure Island
More affordable, especially for direct beachfront rooms or cottages.
Better value for travelers who want space and comfort without resort prices.
St Pete Beach
Generally more expensive due to large resorts and high demand.
Food and activities also tend to cost slightly more.
Who Should Choose Treasure Island
Treasure Island is best for:
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Families with young kids
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Couples wanting a quiet getaway
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Travelers who love authentic, old Florida feel
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Anyone seeking space, peace, and sunsets
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Guests who prefer walking straight from their room onto the sand
It is slower, quieter, and easier to relax.
Who Should Choose St Pete Beach
St Pete Beach is best for:
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Younger travelers
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Groups looking for nightlife
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Families with older teens
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Travelers who want many restaurants, bars, and activities in one place
It is lively, energetic, and full of entertainment.
Why The Molloy Makes Treasure Island the Better Choice
If you want beachfront comfort, easy walkability, and a peaceful gulfside setting, Treasure Island has the edge — and The Molloy highlights everything special about it.
At The Molloy, you get:
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Direct beach access
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Spacious cottages and suites
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Family friendly layouts
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Quiet beachfront property
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Walkable restaurants and activities
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Classic Florida charm with modern comfort
It is the perfect home base for anyone who values sunshine, space, and stress free days on the sand.
Your Perfect Beach Vacation Starts Here
Treasure Island and St Pete Beach are both amazing, but if you want peaceful days, beautiful sunsets, and a true beachfront stay, Treasure Island stands out.
Ready to plan your getaway?
Book your stay at The Molloy and enjoy the Gulf Coast at its most relaxed and beautiful.
