Cradled between the Gulf of Mexico and wide Tampa Bay, Florida's St. Petersburg-Clearwater area is one big playground with the world's largest sandbox--35 miles of wide, powdery white beaches lapped by gentle kid-size waves. Not all of the family attractions along the so-called Suncoast are as obvious as that, however. Buried throughout the metropolitan areas and their gulf-front islands, families can find hidden treasures among the popular spots. Read on for some tips culled from families in-the-know.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.