Welcome to Treasure Island: Your Laid-Back Beach Escape
Treasure Island, Florida, is a Gulf Coast favorite for travelers looking to relax, explore, and enjoy the best of coastal living. The island offers a wide stretch of beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and authentic local spots that feel like true Florida.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or just need a break from the real world, this guide will help you discover the best things to do in Treasure Island. Staying at The Molloy puts you right in the heart of it all.
1. Relax on Treasure Island’s Beautiful Beaches
This one is a no-brainer. The beaches here are wide, sandy, and uncrowded, offering plenty of room to stretch out. You can enjoy swimming, shell hunting, paddleball, or just sinking into a beach chair with a book in hand.
The island is made up of a few key beach areas:
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Sunset Beach at the south end is known for its colorful cottages and quiet charm.
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Mid-Island is close to shops and restaurants, perfect for families.
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North Beach offers fewer crowds and easy morning walks.
If you’re staying at The Molloy, the beach is right outside your door. No cars, no coolers to drag, just wake up and walk out.
2. Go on a Dolphin-Watching Cruise
Local dolphin tours give you the chance to see bottlenose dolphins up close. These cruises run daily through Boca Ciega Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, with morning, afternoon, and sunset options.
Some tours include stops for shelling or even snorkeling. It is a fun, relaxing way to get out on the water and learn about local wildlife.
Insider tip: Choose a sunset cruise for the best lighting and calm water.
3. Visit John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk
Just five minutes away, John’s Pass is a historic boardwalk filled with over 100 shops, bars, and seafood restaurants. You can rent jet skis, watch pelicans dive for fish, grab ice cream, or buy souvenirs.
It is touristy, sure, but still charming. Kids love it, and adults usually do too.
This makes a great afternoon adventure, especially if you’re pairing it with dinner or a boat tour.
4. Paddleboard or Kayak in the Gulf
Rent a paddleboard or kayak and glide across the calm waters of the Gulf or intracoastal. You’ll see dolphins, seabirds, and maybe even a manatee if you’re lucky.
Local rental shops offer hourly or daily rentals, and many will deliver gear directly to your hotel or condo.
This is a peaceful, low-key way to experience the water, and it’s a great morning activity before the sun gets too strong.
5. Book a Fishing Charter
If fishing is your thing, Treasure Island is a great place to do it. You’ll find both deep sea and inshore fishing charters offering half-day and full-day trips. Redfish, snook, grouper, and snapper are common catches.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just want to try it out, local captains will provide everything you need, including gear and bait.
6. Walk or Bike the Beach Trail
The Treasure Island Beach Trail runs parallel to the shoreline and offers a smooth path for biking, jogging, or an evening stroll. It stretches just under a mile and connects many beachfront properties, including The Molloy, to restaurants, shops, and public access points.
You’ll pass beach bars, volleyball courts, and plenty of places to stop for a snack or drink. It’s flat, scenic, and perfect for low-key exploring.
7. Catch Live Music at a Local Beach Bar
End your day with your feet in the sand, a drink in your hand, and live music in the background. Treasure Island has several beachfront bars with live music almost every night.
Local favorites include:
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Caddy’s on the Beach for live acoustic sets and unbeatable sunset views.
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Ka’Tiki for a laid-back crowd and strong drinks.
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Ricky T’s for casual vibes, pub food, and a local crowd.
These spots are fun, relaxed, and perfect for families or couples.
8. Time Your Visit With Local Events
Treasure Island has several can’t-miss annual events that give you a true taste of local flavor.
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Sanding Ovations Sand Sculpture Festival (November): Watch world-class sand artists create giant sculptures right on the beach.
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Treasure Island Kite Festival (January): Giant, colorful kites fill the sky along the shore.
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Holiday Boat Parade (December): Locals decorate their boats in lights and cruise the bay.
Check the Treasure Island events calendar before your trip and plan ahead. The Molloy is centrally located, making it easy to join the fun without dealing with parking or crowds.
9. Explore Nearby St. Pete Beach and Downtown St. Pete
If you’re staying more than a few days, take a short drive to neighboring areas. St. Pete Beach offers even more great dining and shopping, and downtown St. Petersburg has museums, breweries, and a fantastic pier district.
The Dali Museum, in particular, is worth the trip. It is only about 25 minutes from Treasure Island and features one of the largest collections of Salvador Dalí’s work outside of Spain.
10. Unwind at The Molloy (Steps From It All)
After a full day of exploring, come back to your private cottage or suite at The Molloy. You can rinse off in your outdoor shower, watch the sunset from your porch, and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
We’re proud to be locally owned, family-friendly, and steps from everything Treasure Island has to offer.
Ready to Plan Your Stay?
From boating and beach bars to paddleboarding and festivals, Treasure Island is packed with ways to enjoy your vacation — and The Molloy puts you right in the middle of it all.
Explore our accommodations and book your stay today. We’ll save a seat for you at sunset.
