Introduction
St. Pete Beach Florida, is a coastal paradise nestled on the Gulf of Mexico. With its soft sandy beaches, warm sun, and inviting waters, it’s a haven for travelers seeking a relaxing getaway. This charming city, located in Pinellas County, boasts a rich history and a vibrant present, attracting visitors from around the world.
Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, it gained prominence with the arrival of European settlers and later became a bustling tourist destination. The city offers a mix of recreational activities, from water sports to beachcombing, and is dotted with enticing eateries, shops, and resorts.
St. Pete Beach is celebrated for its clear waters, ideal for swimming and water adventures. It is a place where one can unwind, enjoy the natural beauty, and indulge in the laid-back coastal lifestyle. The town’s inviting atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for those seeking the sun, sand, and sea. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast or a history buff, St. Pete Beach has something for everyone to enjoy and explore.
A Brief History Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach, situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, holds a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. Originally inhabited by the Tocobaga and Timucuan tribes, European settlers arrived in the mid-1500s. However, significant development began in the early 20th century, particularly after the completion of the first bridge connecting the mainland to the barrier islands in 1928. During the 1950s and 60s, the area experienced a tourism boom, prompting the town’s incorporation in 1957. It emerged as a popular vacation spot, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture. Over the years, it has continued to evolve, combining its historical charm with modern amenities, attracting visitors from across the globe.
Attractive Places In St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, boasts a myriad of attractions, including the iconic Upham Beach, the scenic Pass-a-Grille Beach, and the historic Corey Avenue. The Don CeSar, a luxurious beachfront hotel, and the fascinating Salvador Dali Museum are also must-visit spots. The dazzling Sunken Gardens and the serene Boca Ciega Millennium Park further add to the allure of this beautiful destination.
Attractions On St. Pete Beach
- Upham Beach
- Pass-a-Grille Beach
- Corey Avenue
- The Don CeSar
- Salvador Dali Museum
- Sunken Gardens
- Boca Ciega Millennium Park
- Fort De Soto Park
- St. Pete Beach Access Park
- John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk
- Gulf Beaches Historical Museum
- Treasure Island Beach
- Gulfport Beach
- Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
- The Morean Arts Center
Things To Do On St. Pete Beach
When in St. Pete Beach Florida, indulge in water sports like jet-skiing or parasailing, unwind at beachfront bars, or take a sunset cruise. Explore the vibrant arts scene at local galleries or rent a bike for a picturesque ride along the coast. You can also go fishing or try your luck at water sports.
Things You Can Do In A Specific St. Pete Beach
- Relax on the Beach
- Swim in the Gulf of Mexico
- Try Water Sports like Jet Skiing
- Sunbathe on the Shore
- Explore the Corey Avenue Shopping District
- Visit the Salvador Dali Museum
- Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour
- Enjoy Beachfront Dining
- Go Fishing on the Pier
- Stroll through Pass-a-Grille Historic District
- Rent a Bike and Explore
- Indulge in Spa Treatments
- Play Beach Volleyball
- Take a Sunset Cruise
- Attend Beach Events and Festivals
Incredible Facilities Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, offers an array of incredible facilities, including world-class resorts like The Don CeSar, boasting luxurious amenities and stunning beachfront views. Visitors can also access top-notch beach clubs, well-equipped fishing charters, and delightful beachside eateries offering a taste of the local cuisine.
Incredible Facilities Options In St. Pete Beach
- The Don CeSar
- TradeWinds Island Grand Resort
- Loews Don CeSar Hotel
- Guy Harvey Outpost
- Dolphin Beach Resort
- St. Pete Beach Community Center
- Treasure Island Tennis & Yacht Club
- Grand Plaza Beachfront Resort Hotel & Conference Center
- Sirata Beach Resort
- Upham Beach Park
- Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center
- Tierra Verde Marina
- Gulf Beach Presbyterian Church
- Corey Causeway Park
- Pass-a-Grille Marina
Nightlife Options On St. Pete Beach
As the sun sets, St. Pete Beach Florida, comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy beachfront bars like Bongos Beach Bar & Grille, where live music and cocktails set the tone for a fun night. The Undertow Beach Bar offers a lively beachfront experience with drinks and entertainment.
Types Of Nightlife Options On St. Pete Beach
- Bongos Beach Bar & Grille
- Undertow Beach Bar
- Level 11 Rooftop Lounge
- PCI Beach Bar
- Toasted Monkey Beach Bar
- Drunken Clam Bar & Grille
- Jimmy B’s Beach Bar
- Harry’s Beach Bar
- The Toasted Monkey Sports Bar
- Woody’s Waterfront
- Rum Runners Bar & Grille
- Ka’Tiki Sunset Beach
- Shark Tales Waterfront Restaurant & Tiki Bar
- Salty Rim Grill
- Blue Parrot Beach Ba
Availability Of Tour Guide For St. Pete Beach
Exploring St. Pete Beach Florida, with a knowledgeable tour guide can enhance the experience. Many local agencies provide guided tours, offering insights into the area’s history, wildlife, and attractions. Visitors can choose from walking tours, boat tours, or even customized private tours.
Options For Availing Tour Guides For St. Pete Beach
- St. Pete Beach Bike Tours
- Speed Boat Adventures – St. Pete Beach
- Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center
- Coastal Kayak Charters
- Tampa Bay Fishing Guide Services
- Tampa Bay SUP Stand Up Paddleboarding & Kayaking
- Free Ride Surf & Skate School
- Fly-N-High Waverunners & Parasail
- Beach Fun & Games – Beach Rentals
- Suncoast Watersports
- Salty’s Water Sports
- Island Ferry St. Pete
- Boca Ciega Millennium Park Guided Tours
- The Pirate Ship at John’s Pass
- Wildside Adventures
Backpack Tips & Tricks For St. Pete Beach
For a hassle-free visit to St. Pete Beach Florida, consider packing light with essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and beachwear. Opt for comfortable footwear for exploring, and pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Don’t forget a beach towel, a good book, and a waterproof phone case for a relaxed day at the beach.
Backpacking Tips And Tricks For Visiting St. Pete Beach
- Pack versatile clothing suitable for the beach and casual outings.
- Use packing cubes to keep your belongings organized in your backpack.
- Carry a portable phone charger to stay connected while on the go.
- Include a first aid kit with essentials like band-aids and pain relievers.
- Bring a foldable beach mat for comfortable lounging by the shore.
- Consider a lightweight, foldable backpack for day trips and exploration.
- Pack a travel-sized sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
- Use a waterproof dry bag to keep your electronics and valuables safe.
- Include a small, foldable umbrella for unexpected rain showers.
- Opt for a compact, quick-drying towel for beach days.
- Carry a reusable shopping bag for souvenirs and beach finds.
- Pack a mini cooler with snacks and refreshments for the beach.
- Use a travel-sized toiletry kit to keep your personal items organized.
- Include a portable Bluetooth speaker for beach tunes and entertainment.
- Bring a waterproof camera to capture memories of your trip.
Useful Products For St. Pete Beach
When visiting St. Pete Beach Florida, consider bringing useful products to enhance your experience. Items such as beach chairs, umbrellas, sunscreen, insect repellent, water shoes, snorkeling gear, and beach toys can make your time at the beach more enjoyable.
Useful Products That Are Considered Essential For St. Pete Beach
- Beach chairs
- Beach umbrellas
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent
- Water shoes
- Snorkeling mask and fins
- Beach towels
- Waterproof phone case
- Portable cooler
- Portable Bluetooth speaker
- Insulated water bottle
- Beach bag or tote
- Beach toys (e.g., beach ball, frisbee)
- Portable beach shade tent
- Aloe vera gel for sunburn relief
Availability Of Food On St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, offers a diverse range of dining options to suit various preferences. From seafood restaurants to cozy beachfront cafes and international cuisines, visitors can savor a wide array of dishes. Freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and coastal-inspired flavors dominate the local culinary scene.
Food Options That You Can Avail In St. Pete Beach
- Seafood platters at Crabby Bill’s Seafood
- Authentic Mexican cuisine at Willy’s Burgers & Booze
- Italian specialties at Vito & Michael’s Gourmet Pizzeria
- Coastal dining at The Hurricane Seafood Restaurant
- Fresh seafood at Dockside Dave’s Grill
- Tropical delights at Ricky T’s Bar & Grille
- Cuban sandwiches at Bongo’s Beach Bar & Grille
- International flavors at Cafe Soleil
- Classic American fare at The Frog Pond
- Beachfront dining at Shells Seafood Restaurant
- Thai cuisine at Thai-Am 2
- Caribbean-inspired dishes at Barracuda Deli Cafe
- Greek flavors at Sunset Grille & Beach Bar
- Gourmet tacos at Blue Sake
- Ice cream treats at Twistee Treat St. Pete Beach
Weather Details On St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach typically enjoys a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Summer temperatures range from 70-90°F (21-32°C), while winter averages are 52-72°F (11-22°C). Rainfall is common, particularly during the summer months, with hurricane season lasting from June to November.
Expected St. Pete Beach Weather Details For Overall Months
| Month | Average High | Average Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 71°F (22°C) | 53°F (12°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) |
| February | 73°F (23°C) | 55°F (13°C) | 2.6 inches (66 mm) |
| March | 77°F (25°C) | 59°F (15°C) | 3.3 inches (84 mm) |
| April | 81°F (27°C) | 64°F (18°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) |
| May | 87°F (31°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 2.5 inches (64 mm) |
| June | 89°F (32°C) | 75°F (24°C) | 7.3 inches (185 mm) |
| July | 90°F (32°C) | 76°F (24°C) | 7.6 inches (193 mm) |
| August | 90°F (32°C) | 76°F (24°C) | 8.1 inches (206 mm) |
| September | 89°F (32°C) | 75°F (24°C) | 7.0 inches (178 mm) |
| October | 84°F (29°C) | 69°F (21°C) | 2.6 inches (66 mm) |
| November | 78°F (26°C) | 62°F (17°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) |
| December | 73°F (23°C) | 55°F (13°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) |
Plant Species Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, is home to a variety of plant species adapted to its coastal environment. Palms like the Sabal palm and Coconut palm thrive, as do sea oats, beach sunflowers, and seagrape. Sea purslane, dune sunflower, and sea grape also contribute to the area’s distinct coastal flora.
Plant Species At St. Pete Beach
- Sabal Palm
- Coconut Palm
- Sea Oats
- Beach Sunflowers
- Seagrape
- Sea Purslane
- Dune Sunflower
- Wax Myrtle
- Sea Grape
- Sea Lavender
- Railroad Vine
- Simpson’s Stopper
- Yaupon Holly
- Firebush
- Beach Morning Glory
Animal Species Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, is abundant with diverse wildlife. Mammals like bottlenose dolphins and manatees grace its waters, while various bird species, including pelicans, herons, and seagulls, are a common sight. Land creatures like raccoons and marsh rabbits also call this area home.
Animals At St. Pete Beach
- Bottlenose Dolphin
- West Indian Manatee
- Raccoon
- Marsh Rabbit
- Armadillo
- Gray Fox
- White-tailed Deer
- Eastern Cottontail
- Bobcat
- Nine-banded Armadillo
- Virginia Opossum
- Eastern Chipmunk
- Southern Flying Squirrel
- Eastern Gray Squirrel
- Hispid Cotton Rat
Bird Species Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, is a haven for birdwatchers. The area hosts a diverse range of bird species, including the magnificent osprey, elegant great egret, playful laughing gull, colorful painted bunting, and iconic brown pelican.
Birds Species In St. Pete Beach
- Osprey
- Great Egret
- Laughing Gull
- Painted Bunting
- Brown Pelican
- Black Skimmer
- Roseate Spoonbill
- Royal Tern
- Sandwich Tern
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Mourning Dove
- Red-winged Blackbird
- Snowy Egret
- Tricolored Heron
- Black-crowned Night Heron
Nearby Attractive Places Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, is surrounded by captivating attractions. Nearby, you’ll find the renowned Clearwater Beach, the historic Fort De Soto Park, and the captivating Sunken Gardens. Don’t miss the impressive Dali Museum and the fascinating Florida Holocaust Museum.
Attractive Places Near St. Pete Beach
- Clearwater Beach
- Fort De Soto Park
- Sunken Gardens
- Dali Museum
- Florida Holocaust Museum
- John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk
- Tropicana Field
- Salvador Dali Museum
- Great Explorations Children’s Museum
- The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art
- The Chihuly Collection
- Mahaffey Theater
- St. Petersburg Museum of History
- Tampa Bay Automobile Museum
- Morean Arts Center
Nearby Clubs Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, offers an exciting nightlife scene. Nearby, you’ll discover lively clubs like Jimmy B’s Beach Bar, Bongos Beach Bar & Grille, and Toasted Monkey Beach Bar. These spots are perfect for those looking to dance and unwind after sunset.
Clubs That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Jimmy B’s Beach Bar
- Bongos Beach Bar & Grille
- Toasted Monkey Beach Bar
- Level 11 Rooftop Lounge
- The Swigwam Beach Bar
- Harry’s Beach Bar
- Drunken Clam Bar & Grille
- Woody’s Waterfront
- Caddy’s St. Pete Beach
- Salty’s Tiki Bar
- The Undertow Beach Bar
- VIP Lounge & Mexican Restaurant
- Salty Rim Grill
- Tropix Beach Bar
- Paradise Grille
Nearby Spa Of St. Pete Beach
For relaxation and rejuvenation, nearby spas provide a tranquil escape. Experience serenity at spas like the Massage Studio, Namaste Spa, and Lemon Tree Spa. Unwind with massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments.
Spas That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Massage Studio
- Namaste Spa
- Lemon Tree Spa
- The Spa at the Don CeSar
- Spa Oceana
- Beach House Spa
- The Massage Spa
- Botanica Day Spa
- Elite Spa
- Spa Escape
- Ocean Blu Spa
- Kaffee’s Garden Spa
- The Vinoy Salon & Day Spa
- Peaceful Warriors Wellness Center
- Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
Nearby Bank Of St. Pete Beach
The vicinity of St. Pete Beach, offers convenient banking services. Major banks like Bank of America, Chase Bank, Wells Fargo, Regions Bank, and SunTrust Bank have branches nearby, ensuring easy access to financial services for both residents and visitors.
Bank That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Bank of America
- Chase Bank
- Wells Fargo
- Regions Bank
- SunTrust Bank
Nearby Supermarket Of St. Pete Beach
A convenient supermarket near St. Pete Beach Florida, is Publix Super Market. Located within easy reach, Publix offers a variety of groceries, fresh produce, and household essentials for both residents and visitors, making shopping for daily needs hassle-free.
Supermarkets That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Publix Super Market
- Winn-Dixie
- Walmart Neighborhood Market
- Aldi
- The Fresh Market
- Dollar General
- Save-A-Lot
Nearby Shopping Malls Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Florida, has a range of nearby shopping options. Head to Tyrone Square Mall for a variety of stores and dining. Sundial St. Pete offers a mix of shops, dining, and entertainment, while BayWalk is a shopping complex known for its diverse retail choices and vibrant atmosphere.
Shopping Malls That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Tyrone Square Mall
- Sundial St. Pete
- BayWalk
- The Mall at Sundial
- Crossroads Shopping Center
- South Pasadena Shopping Center
- Skyway Mall
Nearby Markets Of St. Pete Beach
Near St. Pete Beach, you’ll find bustling markets. Explore Corey Avenue Sunday Market, Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market, and St. Pete Beach Community Market for fresh produce, crafts, and local finds. These markets offer a taste of the vibrant local culture and unique shopping experiences.
Markets That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Corey Avenue Sunday Market
- Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market
- St. Pete Beach Community Market
- Gulfport Art & Gallery Walk
- The Outdoor Downtown Gulfport Art & Craft Market
- The Indie Market on Central
- St. Pete Indie Flea
Nearby Guest Houses Of St. Pete Beach
Explore nearby guest houses in St. Pete Beach, for a cozy stay. Options like Inn on the Beach, Coconut Inn, and Bay Palms Waterfront Resort offer welcoming accommodations near the stunning beaches, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience during your visit.
Guest Houses That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Inn on the Beach
- Coconut Inn
- Bay Palms Waterfront Resort
- Havana Inn
- Pasa Tiempo Private Waterfront Resort
- Coral Reef Beach Resort
- Belleair Beach Resort Motel
- Sabal Palms Inn
- Sea Horse Cottages
- Blind Pass Resort
- The Bayside Inn & Marina
- Alden Suites – A Beachfront Resort
- Blue Waters Treasure Island
- Vistas on the Gulf by TRS
- Plaza Beach Resorts
Nearby Luxurious Hotels Of St. Pete Beach
For a luxurious stay near St. Pete Beach Florida, consider upscale options like The Don CeSar, TradeWinds Island Grand Resort, The Don CeSar Beach House Suites, and The Hotel Zamora. Experience opulent comfort at Loews Don CeSar Hotel or indulge in sophistication at the Opal Sands Resort.
Luxury Hotels That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- The Don CeSar
- TradeWinds Island Grand Resort
- The Don CeSar Beach House Suites
- The Hotel Zamora
- Loews Don CeSar Hotel
- Opal Sands Resort
- The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club
- Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
- The Birchwood
- Sandpearl Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
- The Dali Museum – Innisbrook Resort
- The Don CeSar Beach Resort
- The Birchwood Inn
- Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Nearby Cheap Hotels Of St. Pete Beach
For budget-friendly options near St. Pete Beach Florida, consider staying at affordable hotels like Coconut Inn, Beach Haven Suites, Howard Johnson Resort Hotel, Plaza Beach Hotel Beachfront Resort, and Pasa Tiempo Waterfront Resort. Enjoy a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
Cheap Hotels That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Coconut Inn
- Beach Haven Suites
- Howard Johnson Resort Hotel
- Plaza Beach Hotel Beachfront Resort
- Pasa Tiempo Waterfront Resort
- Carlton House Motel
- Sabal Palms Inn
- Silver Sands Motel & Beach Resort
- Bon Aire Resort Motel
- Gulf Strand Resort
- Seabreeze Condominiums
- Carousel Motel Beachfront
- Beachcomber Beach Resort & Hotel
- Gulf Winds Beach Resort
- Haven Hotel – Downtown St. Petersburg
Nearby Luxurious Restaurants Of St. Pete Beach
Indulge in exquisite dining at luxurious restaurants near St. Pete Beach Florida, such as Maritana Grille, Castile Restaurant, Sea Porch Café, The Mill Restaurant, and Birch & Vine. Experience fine dining and exceptional culinary delights in elegant settings.
Luxury Restaurants That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Maritana Grille
- Castile Restaurant
- Sea Porch Café
- The Mill Restaurant
- Birch & Vine
- Parkshore Grill
- Rococo Steak
- Il Ritorno
- Annata Wine Bar
- The Library
- Stillwaters Tavern
- Cassis American Brasserie
- The Canopy
- The Oyster Bar St. Pete
- Noble Crust
Nearby Cheap Restaurants Of St. Pete Beach
For wallet-friendly dining near St. Pete Beach Florida, explore affordable options like Larry’s Ice Cream & Gelatos, Bodega on Central, Old Northeast Tavern, La V, and Red Mesa Cantina. Savor delicious meals without overspending.
Cheap Restaurants That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- Larry’s Ice Cream & Gelatos
- Bodega on Central
- Old Northeast Tavern
- La V
- Red Mesa Cantina
- Casita Taqueria
- Hawkers Asian Street Fare
- Brooklyn South
- Urban Brew and BBQ
- Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria
- The Burg Bar & Grill
- The Chattaway
- Blue Goose
- Ricky P’s Orleans Bistro
- Souzou Asian Kitchen
Nearby Public Transport For St. Pete Beach
Public transport options near St. Pete Beach Florida, include the Central Avenue Trolley, PSTA buses, and various taxi services. Visitors can also use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft for convenient travel within the area.
Nearby Public Transportations Options For St. Pete Beach
- Central Avenue Trolley
- PSTA Buses
- Uber
- Lyft
- Taxi Services
- Dolphin Beach Jolley Trolley
- Wheelchair Transport
- United Taxi
- St. Petersburg Yellow Cab
- Super Shuttle
- Gulfport Trolley
- Cross-Bay Ferry
- Tampa Bay Ferry
- Greyhound Bus Station
- Amtrak Station
Nearby Airports Of St. Pete Beach
The nearest airports to St. Pete Beach Florida, include St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), Tampa International Airport (TPA), Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW).
Airports That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)
Nearby Hospitals Of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach, is in close proximity to essential medical facilities. Notable nearby hospitals include St. Anthony’s Hospital and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg, ensuring residents and visitors have accessible healthcare services in case of emergencies or medical needs.
Hospitals That Are Considered Near St. Pete Beach
- St. Anthony’s Hospital
- Bayfront Health St. Petersburg
- Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
- Palms of Pasadena Hospital
- Kindred Hospital Bay Area-St. Petersburg
Google Map Location For St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach, is located on the west coast of the state, specifically in Pinellas County. Situated between Treasure Island and Pass-a-Grille, it’s easily accessible via Interstate 275 and Highway 682. The iconic sandy shores, palm-lined boulevards, and various attractions make it a popular destination, attracting visitors from near and far to this picturesque coastal town.
Exact Map Link For St. Pete Beach
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Q: What is the location of St. Pete Beach?
Ans: St. Pete Beach is located on the west coast of Florida, USA, in Pinellas County.
Q: What is a popular attraction in St. Pete Beach?
Ans: One popular attraction is the Salvador Dali Museum, renowned for its extensive collection of Dali’s artworks.
Q: What recreational activities can one enjoy in St. Pete Beach?
Ans: Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, water sports, beachcombing, and fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.
Q: Which nearby hospital provides medical services in St. Pete Beach?
Ans: St. Anthony’s Hospital and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg are notable nearby hospitals in St. Pete Beach.
Q: What is the notable historic district to explore in St. Pete Beach?
Ans: Pass-a-Grille Historic District is a notable area to explore, showcasing the history and charm of the region.