Tripadvisor: Pinellas beaches among best in U.S. and world

St. Pete-Clearwater’s award-winning sugar-white sand and local experiences — yet again — continue to garner nationwide and global recognition, this time making a significant presence in the 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” Awards.

The Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best takes into account the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings, and ranks the very best accommodations, destinations, beaches, restaurants, and things to do in specific categories and geographic areas, as rated and reviewed by travelers. Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award winners are among the top 1% of listings on Tripadvisor.

Clearwater Beach was honored as one of the Best Beaches in the World — the only Florida beach and one of only three in the entire country to land on the prestigious list — while also securing a top spot for the Best Beach in the U.S. behind only La Jolla, California.

Honeymoon Island State Park was ranked as among the Top 10 Best Beaches in the U.S.

Lifeguards needed for 2026 beach season

Pinellas County is seeking seasonal lifeguards to be stationed at Fort De Soto and Sand Key Park beaches from April to September.

Positions are available for full-time or part-time seasonal employment. Pay starts at $20.50 per hour for new lifeguards and up to $23.22 per hour for returning senior lifeguards. Lifeguards with Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification and returning senior lifeguards with EMT certification can make even more per hour. Lifeguards may work 10-hour shifts.

To apply, visit pinellas.gov/careers.

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Hold an American Red Cross lifeguarding certification, or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience.

• Hold a current CPR/AED and first aid certification.

• Must complete 500-meter (550 yards) swim under 10 minutes and half-mile run under four minutes.

• Must be able to complete the 40-hours of training provided by Pinellas County Beach Patrol program.

• Must be at least 18 years old on the first day of employment.

• Ability to work at county beach parks as schedule and staffing demands change.

• Ability to work a variety of schedules, including weekends and holidays and compulsory work periods in special, emergency and/or disaster situations.

• Must possess a valid U.S. driver’s license.

Highly desirable qualifications include:

• Current first responder, EMT or paramedic certification.

• At least three months of responsible lifeguarding experience.