24 Hours in Downtown St. Pete: Local Spots I Love (By Golf Cart)
Living in downtown St. Pete, I’ve found that zipping around on a golf cart is the smartest way to hit up a bunch of spots in one day. It’s relaxed, you feel the breeze, and you can loop through the area effortlessly, stopping wherever the mood strikes.
Start Your Morning at Balance House
I always kick off a good day with some time at Balance House for a sauna session or cold plunge—it sets the tone right. Jon, the owner, treats everyone like family, whether you’re a member or just dropping in. They’ve recently expanded with a huge traditional sauna, two more plunges, and even opened a cafe next door for a quick bite afterward.
If you’re into it, catch their guided meditation at 7:15 a.m. on Tuesdays or 6 a.m. on Thursdays. Tell them Boo’s Coastal Cart Adventures sent you; they’ve got solid drop-in deals. From there, it’s an easy golf cart ride to your next stop.
3 cold plunges, different temps and a traditional wooden sauna (In one section) 5 total plunges and another giant Sauna.
Lunch and Vibes at Trophy Fish
By midday, I head over to Trophy Fish for some fresh seafood and a cocktail.
The drinks hit just right, and they often have live music going, which makes the whole place feel alive without trying too hard.
Their seafood is straightforward and excellent—think grilled catches that taste like they came straight from the water.
It’s one of those local favorites in downtown St. Pete where you can linger, but when you’re ready to move on, grab your golf cart rental and cruise to the next spot.
Afternoon Pickup at North Shore Park Volleyball
After lunch, if the weather’s cooperating, I’ll swing by North Shore Park for some sand volleyball—it’s one of the most beautiful spots right here in downtown St. Pete, with views over the water that make it hard to leave. There are six courts, and the community is super welcoming. Plenty of folks show up solo; you don’t need a partner.
It’s all 2v2 with a simple flop line system that’s easy to pick up once you’re there. If you’re new, hang out on the far right courts—they tend to be more social and beginner-friendly. The middle ones get competitive with higher-level co-ed or men’s games, and the far left are often women-only. Weekdays around 5 to 7 p.m., or weekend mornings starting about 8:30 or 9, things really get going. If you’re lucky, you might spot Boo and his humans out there playing too. Easy to park the golf cart nearby and jump in.
Evening Food & Drinks at Small Bar
As the day winds down, Small Bar is my go-to for a classic bar feel. The menu switches up every night, so it’s always something new, but consistently solid. Spots at the bar fill up fast, so I show up early—reservations aren’t easy to snag.
It’s tucked away enough that it stays low-key, perfect for unwinding. From here, it’s a quick hop on the golf cart to wrap up with dinner.
Wind Down at Bacchus Wine Bistro
For dinner, Bacchus Wine Bistro never disappoints.
Their charcuterie board is massive and easily the best I’ve had in St. Pete—go hungry because the portions are generous.
It’s beer and wine only, with food that’s simple but spot-on, and the service keeps things smooth.
After that, looping back downtown by golf cart feels like the natural end to a solid 24 hours.
Ready to Explore Downtown St. Pete by Golf Cart?
Days like this are why golf carts make so much sense in downtown St. Pete. You can bounce between wellness spots, food, the waterfront, and nightlife without worrying about parking or the clock. It’s relaxed, spontaneous, and exactly how the city is meant to be experienced.
Whether you’re visiting or you live here and want to explore differently, a street-legal golf cart lets you cover more ground while actually enjoying the ride.
That’s why we built Boo’s Coastal Cart Adventures, simple downtown St. Pete golf cart rentals, so you can explore at your own pace.
