St Petersburg Pier - (727) 821-6443

On a recent trip, I went out of my way to spend a couple of days in St. Pete to see what it was like. I had heard some good things about it several years ago. I decided to stay in the Pier area near downtown St. Pete. It has an interesting mix of a downtown feel with immediate access to the water, Marinas, and a nice park along the waterfront. A beautiful, clear, evening seemed to add to the relaxing night I was hoping for. I picked a restaurant along Beach Dr. and settled in for dinner at an outside table. The first thing I noticed was that most of the spaces along the waterfront were empty and for lease. They few that were open were pretty busy. As more people flowed in the service started to slow down. After a while I asked for the check since my parking meter was running out of time. It was then that I noticed no fewer than 4 "metermaids" (old men and women) within a block of where I had parked. Sure enough, I was a few minutes late and already had a ticket! I noticed that they were swarming this area where there is no free parking anywhere I could find, and a 2 hr. limit on the meters. Vultures! If this city preys on customers this way, I am scratching it off my list. No wonder most of the restaurant/shop spaces were empty. Now they are asking for late fees on the parking ticket because I did not get home in time to mail payment, and have it arrive within 15 days. Seriously?! I guess my info on this area was very dated. I suggest you avoid it.

there is no place like it in st. petersburg. where else can you go 1/4 out in to the wide water body of tampa bay to eat, shop and yes there is now nightlife there for the locals. as a local i always enjoyed the pier experience and eating at captain als but i really love the salsa dancing they now have every friday from 9 to midnite. what a great place to dance. there are people of all ages just enjoying the music or dancing the night away. yes locals there is nightlife at the pier and i love it.

The reviews listed here are really out-dated. With a new management companyjthat has turned this place around, this is THE SPOT TO BE! New colors, restaurants and a food court that is inviting, there is always something to do! We rented an electric boat and went around the Bay, then toured the Aquraium on the second floor. They have great new exhibits that are fun for kids too! We ate at Cha Cha Coconuts on the top floor and had a beautiful view of the city, and great food- their burgers are wonderful!