Gulfport
The "Gateway to the Gulf"
Known as the "Gateway to the Gulf", this town of 13,000 year-round residents sits just nine miles southwest of the hustle and bustle of St. Petersburg and thirty minutes from Tampa International Airport. Facing the Boca Ciega Bay which feeds into the Gulf of Mexico, Gulfport offers fantastic fishing, beautiful sunsets, and a quiet and artistic atmosphere that harkens back to the days of "Old Florida."
Established in 1867, this Pinellas County community went by several names before settling on its current incarnation in 1910. Before Gulfport, the town was known as Disston City, Bonifacio, and Veteran City. Many of the buildings from these early days still stand – especially around tree-lined Beach Boulevard.
Unlike so many beachfront communities, Gulfport has preserved its “Old Florida” roots – tall buildings are few and far between, offering fantastic views of St. Pete Beach and neighboring islands.
Art Walk
On the first Friday and third Saturday of every month from 6:00 - 9:00 PM Beach Boulevard comes alive with artists, vendors, musicians, and great food during our famous Gulfport Art Walks. Locals and tourists alike come out to enjoy the free event – and with a FREE trolley running all over town, there’s no excuse not to go!
Along with outdoor vendors, street performers, and musicians, local craft and art stores join the mix as well. As you stroll down Beach Boulevard, you'll see that dozens of specialty shops are open to the public. Feel free to browse, shop, and enjoy refreshments served inside the shops, such as wine, crackers, and cheese.
The Waterfront District: Gulfport Casino and Williams Pier
Gulfport is home to a bustling Waterfront District home to a variety of shops, restaurants, civic areas, parks, and fantastic views of St. Pete Beach and Tierra Verde.
One of the most notable elements of the Waterfront is the historic Gulfport Casino, founded in 1935. Today the Casino lives as one of the region's most popular dance halls, boasting a white maple dance floor and a beautiful view of the Boca Ciega Bay. With advance notice, you can rent the Casino for special events, including weddings, banquets, reunions, and fundraisers.
Dedicated in 2001, the Walter and Bert Williams Fishing Pier extends an impressive 521 feet into the water. Admission is free, and benches, outdoor lighting, and a fish cleaning table have been installed for the convenience of our visitors. Gulfport's first pier was built in 1907.
