Landing at PIE? Everything you need — from the terminal to the waterfront. Hotels, activities, car rentals, and local tips for St. Petersburg, Clearwater Beach, and the Gulf Beaches.
From beachfront resorts to boutique stays — find the perfect accommodation for your St. Petersburg & Clearwater trip.
Book the best-rated activities in St. Petersburg & Clearwater.
A rental car is essential in St. Petersburg & Clearwater. Compare rates from all major agencies.
Read this before you drive to PIE. The airport handled 2.8 million passengers in 2025 against a parking supply built for a fraction of that, and the 2,000-space garage that fixes it does not open until summer 2027. Every space is first-come, first-served — there are no reservations.
Plan your drive time from St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport to popular destinations.
St. Pete and Clearwater are among Florida's fastest-growing markets, with a booming arts scene, waterfront development, and strong short-term rental demand. Whether you're looking for a Gulf-front condo, an investment property, or a permanent move to the Sunshine City, we can help.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) is the closest airport to Clearwater Beach — just 8 miles and about 20 minutes away. Tampa International (TPA) is also nearby at about 25 minutes, but PIE is more convenient and typically has shorter security lines.
PIE is approximately 15 miles from downtown St. Petersburg, about a 25 minute drive. The airport is located in Clearwater, on the north end of Pinellas County.
Short-term parking at PIE is $24/day and long-term is $15/day. The economy lots — Key Lime PIE and Strawberry PIE — are $10/day with a free shuttle. Important: PIE offers no parking reservations at all, and every space is first-come, first-served. The Strawberry lot has only 76 spaces, and the 2,000-space garage that fixes this does not open until summer 2027. Booking an offsite lot in advance is the only way to guarantee a space.
PIE is primarily served by Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines, offering affordable nonstop flights from 30+ smaller cities. For more airline options, Tampa International (TPA) is about 25 minutes away.
PIE is closer (20 min vs 35+ min from TPA), less crowded, and has cheaper parking. However, TPA has more airline options and nonstop routes from major hubs.
March through May offers the best combination of warm weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. Peak season is January–April. Summer is hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms but has the lowest hotel prices.