As a travel writer, I’ve explored more of the world than my own home state of Florida. This summer, I set out to change that with a midweek road trip along Florida’s west coast. Two nights, zero flights and all the coastal delights awaited me in St. Pete.
For those craving a quick reset, this story delivers beach views, delicious meals, sunset cocktails and plenty of sunshine all without the hassle of airports or long travel days.
What you’ll find in this guide
- Two waterfront resorts with completely different personalities.
- The restaurants, cocktails, and sunset spots worth making time for.
- Why a midweek Florida escape feels like a true vacation.
Editor’s Note: The writer was hosted.
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The Perry Hotel Naples: A Chic Retreat in Naples
Overview
A fabulous addition to Naples, The Perry Hotel Naples sits along the Cocohatchee River, with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. There’s a marina out back, two pools and a rooftop bar with stunning sunset views.
- The Vibe: Quiet and chic, which is exactly what I wanted after my 3+ hour drive from Orlando.
Accommodations
About that 3+ hour drive… the first thing I did when I arrived was rest!
With coastal colors, king-sized beds and floor-to-ceiling windows that let the natural light pour in, I wanted for nothing in my Riverview Balcony Room.
Modern amenities such as adjustable mirror lights and a smart TV added a touch of luxury, while the balcony views provided an extra dose of serenity.
Food and Beverage
- Tigress: My favorite dinner of the stay! The rooftop restaurant serves modern Cantonese dishes, and the river views provide a stunning backdrop, especially around sunset.
- Easy Tiger: Sharing the same outdoor rooftop space as Tigress, this open-air cocktail bar became my go-to spot for a pre-dinner drink and golden hour views.
- Poolside Bodega : The place to grab a casual lunch, frozen drink, or afternoon snack without leaving the pool. With the summer heat, the fresh and light Bodega Salad hit the spot!
- Perry Coffee Shop: My morning stop for coffee.
Relaxation and Activities
The hotel includes two pools: one on the ground floor by the river, and one up on the roof for the adults-only crowd. Kayaks and paddleboards are available to rent for an afternoon on the river… Though, if you’re like me, you’ll just want a lounge chair and a drink.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t miss Elsie in Naples, a boutique shop located across from the lobby. The boutique carries stylish resortwear, handmade jewelry, beach accessories and gifts that are much more fun than your typical hotel shop.
SkyBeach Resort St. Pete – Modern Fun on the Water
First Impressions and Unique Features
- SkyBeach Resort is a waterfront resort just south of downtown St. Pete with views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
- Towering banyan trees, private beach and sunset views.
- Relaxed atmosphere with live music, lawn games, bar vibes and plenty of outdoor space.
Room Details and Resort Amenities
- Recently renovated guest rooms with a bright coastal design.
- Two pools, a private beach, gym, beach volleyball and fire pits.
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals, plus a marina and waterfront walking paths.
Pool, Beach and Sunset Experiences
As Florida summer goes, you’ll get rain nearly every day, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying some beach time.
- Spend the day bouncing between the pool and the resort’s private beach.
- Unwind in hammocks, lounge chairs and cabanas scattered across the property.
- End the day with west-coast sunset views. SheBuysTravel Tip: For a more elevated experience, rent a private poolside cabana, complete with a complimentary bottle of champagne and fresh fruit.
Dining at SkyBeach Resort
- Start the morning with coffee and breakfast at Paradeco Coffee Roasters.
- Grab lunch and a frozen drink at SkyBar + Grille by the pool.
- End the day with dinner at LUMA, where Mediterranean dishes and waterfront views steal the show.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Try the slow-braised short rib kebab at LUMA… Yum!
Why Midweek is the Secret Move
- Fewer crowds. More room at the pool, no long waits for dinner and a quieter atmosphere.
- Easier reservations. Restaurants and activities have more availability during the week.
- Better value. Midweek room rates typically have lower than weekend prices.
Best Sunset Spots and Relaxing Rituals
- At The Perry Hotel Naples: Head up to the rooftop bar right before sunset. Order something with rum, and just watch the light change over the river.
- At SkyBeach Resort: Grab a spot on the private beach, or the second floor of SkyBar.
- Overall ritual: Slow morning coffee, a lazy pool afternoon, sunset drink, and elevated experience for dinner… repeat!
FAQs
While both trips were summer getaways for me, early spring will provide you with the best weather, when the Florida sun isn’t too unbearable and afternoon showers won’t spoil your sun-lounging.
All of the above! The Perry Hotel in Naples leans a bit more romantic and quiet. SkyBeach is more laid-back and works well for solo travelers and families, especially with kids who want fun beach time.
Absolutely! While I never left the property for either hotel, both cities are historically safe to explore.
Swimsuit, sunscreen, one nice outfit for a rooftop dinner, and comfy shoes for walking the marina or riverwalk. Oh, and a good book for lounging in the sun (has anyone read The Hike by Lucy Clarke? Perfect summer thriller!).
Don’t over-plan. The whole point of a midweek escape is doing less, not more. Pick a pool, pick a drink and let the trip be easy.
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