Best things to do in Treasure Island

For a glimpse at the creative process of a master of Surrealism, visit The Dali Museum. Here you'll see the largest collection of Salvador Dali's works outside Europe. The museum contains works from the private collection of Albert and Eleanor Morse, Dali's patrons and friends for over four decades. The collection includes 96 oil paintings, 100 watercolors and drawings, and over 1,000 graphics, photographs, and sculptures. Pay special attention to the seven works considered Dali's masterpieces, including a metaphorical representation of Christopher Columbus' discovery of America, which took nearly four years to complete. For a taste of traditional Spanish fare, stop by the on-site restaurant, named after Dali's wife Gala.

Witness Florida's bottleneck dolphins playing in their natural habitat on a cruise along the coast. Setting off along the western shoreline, you'll bask in picturesque scenery as you make your way to Clearwater Beach for a chance to catch some rays looking out across the Gulf of Mexico. Your experienced crew will guide your sightseeing boat to some prime dolphin and whale watching spots, so all you have to do is keep your eyes peeled for these creatures in the glistening turquoise sea. For an extra thrill, opt for a speedboat ride across the waves. Full-day tours often include hotel pickup and shuttle to Clearwater Beach--shorter options take a couple of hours.

Spend a day on the white sands and in the gentle waters of Clearwater Beach, noted for its proximity to restaurants, shops, and hotels. You can choose to fish, kayak, swim, or snorkel in the calm surf, or stroll along the waterfront promenade and hop on a dolphin-watching cruise in the gulf. Quieter and less crowded than many of its neighbors farther south, this beach attracts visitors interested in grabbing a good spot on the silky sand and spending a tranquil day in and out of the warm water. Take advantage of the drinking fountains, shower nozzles, and bicycle paths, all part of a 2008 upgrade to this public beach.

More than just a marine animal attraction, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured animals. The aquarium opened in 1972 with a mission to educate the public about the importance of animal conservation. The aquarium took over a facility that once housed a local water treatment plant. You can learn about the aquarium's continued efforts to rehabilitate sick and injured animals by visiting its working hospital, which houses river otters, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks. Get involved and stay in touch with your favorite marine mammal by becoming a friend, protector, or guardian of one of the aquarium's permanent residents. Check online for adoption levels and animals currently in need of financial support.

The soft, white sand and warm waters of St. Pete Beach provide ample opportunities for rest and play. Lie in the sun, splash in the surf, or go for a stroll. The clear water offers great views of the area’s marine life, including starfish and stingrays. Look for dolphins on the horizon. Grab a bite or a refreshing drink at one of several beachfront restaurants. Bringing a parasol is a good idea, as the sun can be very powerful here.