Tradewinds Island Grand Resort - St Pete Beach
5500 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
(July 2019)
This trip we decided to skip a cruise and head somewhere local. About an hour and a half away from Orlando is an area called St Pete Beach, one of the best beach areas in Florida. Although I wanted a cruise, my wife said lets try something different. She searched day and night looking for a resort that offered so many amenities, similar to a cruise. Things to do day and at night. She finally came across TradeWind's Island Resort.
Our trip was over July 4th weekend, so this was a good chance to get a feel for a holiday weekend at a beachfront resort. Walking into the resort you enter in a long lobby, where you will receive a map of the resort, since it is pretty big. Also included in your stay is their sister property at the RumFish Beach Resort, just a short walk away. If you asked us which we would stay at again, we'd go with the Island Resort side, it is much bigger and more restaurant options.
Like I mentioned the resort is pretty big, and on property you have just about everything you could need for your stay. Tons of great restaurants, shops, pools, activities and a great beach! Keep an eye out for their package specials that they run from time-to-time. We booked a 4th of July package. Onto our room, we were on the top floor (7th) facing the courtyard. Room was pretty basic and a good size.
We enjoyed a lot throughout our stay, loved how everything we needed and wanted was at the resort. We do recommend getting to a grocery store (Publix is less than a mile up the road) and stock up on snacks, drinks and food. Our room had dishes, utensils and a toaster, along with a decent-size fridge. The resort has several different restaurants, along with some grab and go type places. RumFish also has their signature restaurant, RumFish Grill, which we will talk about more below. You have a few other restaurants within walking distance of the resort.
One thing we really liked about the resort was the free cabana access, which many places charge a fortune for them, here we got them everyday for free. Major plus in our book! Speaking of the beach, here you will find a ton of different things to do, tons of fun.
Overall we had a really great and relaxing time here. Stepped out of our normal vacation routine and spent countless hours doing things we never do on any cruises. Loved the atmosphere of the resort and highly recommend booking a stay here.
Onto our review and tour of TradeWind's Island Resort.
Around The Resort
Here are a few photos from around the resort. Overall the resort was very clean and the staff took really great care of it. Overall the staff was great, a few bad apples but overall very nice and accommodating.
Welcome to TradeWinds Island Grand Resort.
Just one of the towers of our resort.
It's what you have to do on vacation. The resort does a great job at having you "just let go".
A pretty large resort, make sure to check out the RumFish Beach Resort as well!
Parking was one of our complaints. This was the normal parking job for many people. Also spots fill up quick.
Always a plus coming across a giraffe!
They are pet friendly, and they have a area for them as well. You can find it off the parking lot area.
In the pet area is also a few loungers and tables.
Saw this guy all over the place.
Beaker's Tropical Outfitters
Beaker's is one of the several shops on property.
Beef 'O' Brady's
This was our first stop on our visit for lunch. Overall really good. The Onion Rings were straight FIRE! The other food was also delicious. Great start to our stay.
Some seating outside as well.
I ordered the Five Cheese Burger, it's an Angus burger covered with melted American, provolone, cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses between two slices of real butter brioche bread grilled with a layer of shredded Parmesan. Garnished with the most amazing Mozzarella stick I've ever had. So wouldn't that be a six cheese burger? I enjoyed this a lot, the rings were awesome as well!
My wife went with the Prime Rib Sandwich, tender, flavorful seasoned Prime Rib, sliced thin, topped with smoke Gouda cheese and creamy horseradish sauce and served on a Ciabatta bun, along with au jus sauce. She liked this. Wasn't the best we've had, but a good lunch option.
Bermudas Restaurant
Bermudas was open for Breakfast & Dinner. Honestly one of our favorite spots to eat. Came here once for dinner and twice for breakfast. Only bad thing that I ate, which was my fault was one of their specials (below), if I didn't get that, my overall experience would have been even higher here. But overall a great place to eat. Highly recommend the breakfast. For us to go two days in a row really speaks a lot.
These were some of the best Triple Stack Buttermilk Pancakes I've ever had. I'm picky on pancakes and I give these two thumbs up!
This monster was the Breakfast Quesadilla, inside is scrambled eggs, chorizo sausage, cheddar and monterey jack cheese. I'm not usually an egg person, but this was absolutely amazing! I didn't even get this on our first visit, but I ate half of it! I loved it so much I told my wife we were going back the next day again so I can get one for myself. I did, and it was just as delicious!
This was an Omelet, pretty much the kitchen sink. It was massive and tasted great! This was stuffed with flavor and they did not shy any toppings. It was filled up so much! Hard to finish!
Off to dinner, we enjoyed fresh bread with an amazing herb butter.
I did the special which was steak tips with mushrooms, covered in cheese. I did not care for this at all. Flavor wasn't that good. It was a noodle away from stroganoff. Wouldn't recommend it.
The mashed potatoes however were really good.
My wife ordered the double-cut Pork Chop with apple butter. This was really good, slightly over on the cook, but taste made up for it.
Her side was a fully loaded baked potato.
BodyWorks Salon & Fitness Center
Right after you get pizza & ice cream you come to the Salon & Fitness Center. We didn't venture in, but never seemed too crowded.
Bungee Trampoline & Gyrosphere
The Bungee Trampoline & Gyrosphere are located in the courtyard area, not 100% sure if they were free to use or not.
Cabanas & Beach Access
Best part was having access to a cabana on the beach for free everyday. At 2pm everyday you can logon to the given website, enter in some basic information and reserve your cabana. Don't worry if you don't reserve one, check around for any open ones without a name, usually in the back rows. First row does cost extra. We usually got the 2nd row everyday. Spent hours upon hours in the ocean. Water felt great, a bit rocky at times. Also on the beach is a monster 3-story slide which I did on our first day, lots of fun! Don't forget to enjoy some of the volleyball and cornhole games throughout the day. Beach towels are located right next to the main pool. Once done, dispose of them in your room or at one of the many spots near the beach marked "dirty towels". Also available are some excursions, visit the front desk or beach to find out options and pricing. We saw a snorkel and dolphin sightseeing tour available as well. In addition to all of those amazing things are also the JetLev Flight Center, Floating Cabanas, Paddle Boards, Floating Water Park, Bucky the Shark and so much more.
The slide was a lot of fun, make sure to try it out!
Plenty of beach, this is just one side of it.
Volleyball anyone??
This is $4 for 3 try's. It's a mechanical shark.
Cornhole was setup all over the place.
This stand is on the beach in the middle.
This is the Splash Waterpark. Was not open everyday, depending on weather.
Tons of activities.
You're also able to rent one of these and float away in the ocean.
Tons of cabanas. You log onto their webpage at 2pm to reserve for the next day for free. The unused ones are available throughout the day. The first row is for a fee.
Our view from the second row.
Don't forget to head to the beach for an amazing view of the sunset.
Beautiful skies.
We were also treated to fireworks on the 4th. Our resort did them a few nights later.
Deli & General Store
Right in the lobby is a small Deli & General Store.
This guy put love into the sandwiches. Took his time making sure it looked amazing. We really should have got one!
Flying Bridge Beach Bar & Restaurant
Right next to the main pool and beach is the Flying Bridge. Here you can get a cocktail or some food. We headed here after a long morning on the beach. Very good food and not too hot out with the fans!
Mozzarella sticks, these were okay, nothing amazing.
The Gyro was pretty good. Nice on a hot summer day at the beach.
KONK (Kids Section)
KONK is the kids club at the resort.
Lobby
When you first walk in you come to a long lobby. A great place to grab a cup of Starbucks coffee or get a sandwich at the Deli. Or even just to hangout and relax.
Here is the Starbucks bar.
This is the RumFish Grill tank model. Really cool to check out.
Mini Golf & Chess
Also in the courtyard area you can either play a large game of chess or mini golf in a 9-hole putting green.
Paddleboats
One thing we really wanted to do but did not get a chance to was the Paddleboats. We really wanted to but time got the best of us. This free activity takes you around in a boat throughout the property.
The swans own this lake.
Palm Court Italian Grill
Palm Court is located right off the lobby area. We originally were going to dine here and walked over to grab a last minute table, we were greeted (well not too much greeted) by the woman in charge of the restaurant. She wasn't too enjoyable to talk to and just about rude to us. We asked if they had any tables open (about 10 minutes before they opened) she said that they were fully booked and we could eat outside. Then she went back to putting her head down writing something. We then asked if the next day was opened, which she replied was a nasty "what". Like we were bothering her to make a reservation. We set it up then canceled the next day to go across the street. The funny part of this was that this was the same woman in the room tv commercial saying that "You only get one first impression", well she blew that with us. Left a bad taste in our mouths. As much as we wanted to dine here, we opted out.
Pizza Hut & Ice Cream
Pizza Hut & Ice Cream? Yes you heard it right, both right next to each other. This is right next to Beef 'O' Brady's, off the adults only pool. You can grab a pie and sit by the beach and relax and then go back for a cone. One of the highlights happened here while we were at the Ice Cream part. Lilly (I believe was her name) let us try out several options. Not it wasn't just take a sample and try it out. She explained how each was made and even suggested other options based off our likes. Even when she made us a two-scoop, I was still unsure of what I wanted so she topped it off with chocolate since she knew I liked it. Such a great experience. Highly recommend getting some ice cream and saying hi to her. Great person!
Right off the adults pool is the Pizza Hut Express.
Right next is the ice cream.
A bit pricey, but very good flavors.
Yummy!!
How'd you know!
Pools
The resort has several pools. You have on near the courtyard, along with an adults-only one near the beach and a main family pool as well. Not including the one at RumFish Resort. We dipped in the Adults-only pool for a bit. The main pool quickly filled up with people. Much of the entertainment took place there everyday. Pools are not huge, but many people stuck to the beach like we did.
This was it not busy around 7am.
Meanwhile in the afternoon.
This was the kids pool for the little ones.
The pools were often closed, mornings until 8am or so for routine cleaning and maintenance. The afternoons usually closed with thunder in the area.
Steps away from the beach.
Room (King Room)
Our room was a decent size. Equipped with a 2-slice toaster, utensils and other features that a normal hotel room won't be able to offer you. Also a 4-cup coffeemaker with standard coffee. Only con was the bed, too soft for our liking. Other than that plenty of room. TV had tons of channels.
Spacious room.
Our view from outside our room.
Salty's Tiki Bar & Beach Lounge
Salty's is between the two beachfront pools. Offering nightly live music, drinks and food. Bury your feet in the sand and sit back and relax the night away. Something we took advantage of on several nights during our stay.
Sit back and stick your feet in the sand, such a perfect evening.
Nightly entertainment.
Sharkteeth Tavern
Here you can grab a drink and listen to live music throughout the nights.
Stars, Stripes & Smiles Party & Cookout
Our package we booked we added on the Stars, Stripes & Smiles Party & Cookout. This was held in the ballroom in the lobby. It runs for about $42 (adult) and $18 (kids). You had hot dogs, burgers, chicken and desserts. Along with giveaways and games to play. Overall wasn't worth the price. Not for the food selection. Only reason we booked it was because it was cheaper than a normal night booking rate. Food was so-so, dessert being the best part. Did fill up with a lot of people.
Plenty of fun games to enjoy!
Prizes for the contests for the kids.
I leaned, still missed!
Summer Kickoff Carnival
Outside on the beach during one of the nights was a Carnival, full of blowup games for people to enjoy. It was $30 per wristband and geared mainly towards kids.
Spend $30 to beat each other, hmm!
Tennis Court
If you're in the mood for some gameplay, check out the Tennis Court. I did not see any place to grab balls and rackets. Might need to bring your own, not sure if inside offered any.
RumFish Beach Resort by TradeWinds
A few hotels down (within walking distance) is the RumFish Beach Resort. This is a smaller resort with less dining options, but still a place you need to check out during your stay. Also several activities are held here, make sure to check your daily guide for more information. The resort also offers another Starbucks location.
Check in area.
Here is the other Starbucks.
Loved the decor of this resort.
Outside pool area.
RumFish Grill & Bar
One thing you will hear a lot about at the resort and on the room TV is the RumFish Grill & Bar. Appearing on the show Tanked, the guys won a bid to change a ballroom into an amazing dining venue with a stunning view of a massive fishtank. Along with the main show piece tank, you can also check out the Lionfish Tank and Juvenile Tank on display as well. No need for a reservation, head to the left side of the restaurant to get a upclose viewing of the tank. We did get a chance to dine here for lunch. Food was good, nothing to crazy, but still good. The tank was very impressive as well. A bit loud since they had a large group in the front area near the tank. We'd suggest try grabbing a seat near the other smaller juvenile tank for a quieter area. Also make sure to check out the giftshop. Overall you need to really check this section of the resort out. It is really cool!
Prices were really good here, also sometimes have specials. Make sure to ask.
Meet the cardboard cutouts of the guys from Tanked, who designed the large tank.
This is the bar area next door to the restaurant.
This was the Lion Fish tank.
We loved this guy, kept blowing sand at us.
Down this path on the left of the restaurant is the juvenile tank followed by the side view of the big tank viewing area.
Love the artwork.
First time I ever saw a Eel swimming around.
Inside the RumFish Restaurant. This amazing, stunning tank!
View from our seat.
The juvenile tank from inside the restaurant.
More amazing artwork.
The menu's light up!
I ordered the Grilled Grouper served with asparagus and coconut rice. I never usually order a fish dish, but felt I should. This was a good dish, pretty enjoyable.
My wife went with the Lobster Ravioli, with applewood smoked bacon, tomato, corn and an aged provolone cream sauce. She enjoyed it, I felt the smoked bacon overpowered some bites a bit too much. Overall not bad.
Snappers
One part that is not on resort property but a short walk across the street was a small restaurant called Snappers. This place is known for it's Wasabi Crusted Tuna. I really wanted to try this, but I wasn't feeling to well and wanted something non-fish and a bit on the safer side for food. I did see others get it and it looked amazing. Even though we did not get it we highly recommend it and let us know what you think of their signature dish. Overall we enjoyed our meals here, very good. If you're looking for a good option outside of the resort head here, you won't be disappointed.
Outside seating available.
We loved the front stained glass door.
Hummus and pita slices. Pretty good!
We had salads with our entrees. The dressing was very interesting, but very good!
I went with the Filet of Beef Tenderloin topped with a blue cheese crust served with a puff potato pastry. The potato was heaven! Almost like a potato sandwich. The blue cheese was good but for me a bit overpowering, which is normal. I should have went without it, but overall the steak was good and cooked perfectly, so extra points there.
My wife went with their special. A lobster tail, shrimp and scallops with a puff potato pastry. It was also very good! Saw many people order this and all enjoyed it.
Thank you for checking out our review of TradeWind's Island Resort in St Pete Beach, Florida.
This trip we decided to skip a cruise and head somewhere local. About an hour and a half away from Orlando is an area called St Pete Beach, one of the best beach areas in Florida. Although I wanted a cruise, my wife said lets try something different. She searched day and night looking for a resort that offered so many amenities, similar to a cruise. Things to do day and at night. She finally came across TradeWind's Island Resort.
Our trip was over July 4th weekend, so this was a good chance to get a feel for a holiday weekend at a beachfront resort. Walking into the resort you enter in a long lobby, where you will receive a map of the resort, since it is pretty big. Also included in your stay is their sister property at the RumFish Beach Resort, just a short walk away. If you asked us which we would stay at again, we'd go with the Island Resort side, it is much bigger and more restaurant options.
Like I mentioned the resort is pretty big, and on property you have just about everything you could need for your stay. Tons of great restaurants, shops, pools, activities and a great beach! Keep an eye out for their package specials that they run from time-to-time. We booked a 4th of July package. Onto our room, we were on the top floor (7th) facing the courtyard. Room was pretty basic and a good size.
We enjoyed a lot throughout our stay, loved how everything we needed and wanted was at the resort. We do recommend getting to a grocery store (Publix is less than a mile up the road) and stock up on snacks, drinks and food. Our room had dishes, utensils and a toaster, along with a decent-size fridge. The resort has several different restaurants, along with some grab and go type places. RumFish also has their signature restaurant, RumFish Grill, which we will talk about more below. You have a few other restaurants within walking distance of the resort.
One thing we really liked about the resort was the free cabana access, which many places charge a fortune for them, here we got them everyday for free. Major plus in our book! Speaking of the beach, here you will find a ton of different things to do, tons of fun.
Overall we had a really great and relaxing time here. Stepped out of our normal vacation routine and spent countless hours doing things we never do on any cruises. Loved the atmosphere of the resort and highly recommend booking a stay here.
Onto our review and tour of TradeWind's Island Resort.
Around The Resort
Here are a few photos from around the resort. Overall the resort was very clean and the staff took really great care of it. Overall the staff was great, a few bad apples but overall very nice and accommodating.
Beaker's Tropical Outfitters
Beaker's is one of the several shops on property.
Beef 'O' Brady's
This was our first stop on our visit for lunch. Overall really good. The Onion Rings were straight FIRE! The other food was also delicious. Great start to our stay.
Bermudas Restaurant
Bermudas was open for Breakfast & Dinner. Honestly one of our favorite spots to eat. Came here once for dinner and twice for breakfast. Only bad thing that I ate, which was my fault was one of their specials (below), if I didn't get that, my overall experience would have been even higher here. But overall a great place to eat. Highly recommend the breakfast. For us to go two days in a row really speaks a lot.
BodyWorks Salon & Fitness Center
Right after you get pizza & ice cream you come to the Salon & Fitness Center. We didn't venture in, but never seemed too crowded.
Bungee Trampoline & Gyrosphere
The Bungee Trampoline & Gyrosphere are located in the courtyard area, not 100% sure if they were free to use or not.
Cabanas & Beach Access
Best part was having access to a cabana on the beach for free everyday. At 2pm everyday you can logon to the given website, enter in some basic information and reserve your cabana. Don't worry if you don't reserve one, check around for any open ones without a name, usually in the back rows. First row does cost extra. We usually got the 2nd row everyday. Spent hours upon hours in the ocean. Water felt great, a bit rocky at times. Also on the beach is a monster 3-story slide which I did on our first day, lots of fun! Don't forget to enjoy some of the volleyball and cornhole games throughout the day. Beach towels are located right next to the main pool. Once done, dispose of them in your room or at one of the many spots near the beach marked "dirty towels". Also available are some excursions, visit the front desk or beach to find out options and pricing. We saw a snorkel and dolphin sightseeing tour available as well. In addition to all of those amazing things are also the JetLev Flight Center, Floating Cabanas, Paddle Boards, Floating Water Park, Bucky the Shark and so much more.
Deli & General Store
Right in the lobby is a small Deli & General Store.
Flying Bridge Beach Bar & Restaurant
Right next to the main pool and beach is the Flying Bridge. Here you can get a cocktail or some food. We headed here after a long morning on the beach. Very good food and not too hot out with the fans!
KONK (Kids Section)
KONK is the kids club at the resort.
Lobby
When you first walk in you come to a long lobby. A great place to grab a cup of Starbucks coffee or get a sandwich at the Deli. Or even just to hangout and relax.
Mini Golf & Chess
Also in the courtyard area you can either play a large game of chess or mini golf in a 9-hole putting green.
Paddleboats
One thing we really wanted to do but did not get a chance to was the Paddleboats. We really wanted to but time got the best of us. This free activity takes you around in a boat throughout the property.
Palm Court Italian Grill
Palm Court is located right off the lobby area. We originally were going to dine here and walked over to grab a last minute table, we were greeted (well not too much greeted) by the woman in charge of the restaurant. She wasn't too enjoyable to talk to and just about rude to us. We asked if they had any tables open (about 10 minutes before they opened) she said that they were fully booked and we could eat outside. Then she went back to putting her head down writing something. We then asked if the next day was opened, which she replied was a nasty "what". Like we were bothering her to make a reservation. We set it up then canceled the next day to go across the street. The funny part of this was that this was the same woman in the room tv commercial saying that "You only get one first impression", well she blew that with us. Left a bad taste in our mouths. As much as we wanted to dine here, we opted out.
Pizza Hut & Ice Cream
Pizza Hut & Ice Cream? Yes you heard it right, both right next to each other. This is right next to Beef 'O' Brady's, off the adults only pool. You can grab a pie and sit by the beach and relax and then go back for a cone. One of the highlights happened here while we were at the Ice Cream part. Lilly (I believe was her name) let us try out several options. Not it wasn't just take a sample and try it out. She explained how each was made and even suggested other options based off our likes. Even when she made us a two-scoop, I was still unsure of what I wanted so she topped it off with chocolate since she knew I liked it. Such a great experience. Highly recommend getting some ice cream and saying hi to her. Great person!
Pools
The resort has several pools. You have on near the courtyard, along with an adults-only one near the beach and a main family pool as well. Not including the one at RumFish Resort. We dipped in the Adults-only pool for a bit. The main pool quickly filled up with people. Much of the entertainment took place there everyday. Pools are not huge, but many people stuck to the beach like we did.
Room (King Room)
Our room was a decent size. Equipped with a 2-slice toaster, utensils and other features that a normal hotel room won't be able to offer you. Also a 4-cup coffeemaker with standard coffee. Only con was the bed, too soft for our liking. Other than that plenty of room. TV had tons of channels.
Salty's Tiki Bar & Beach Lounge
Salty's is between the two beachfront pools. Offering nightly live music, drinks and food. Bury your feet in the sand and sit back and relax the night away. Something we took advantage of on several nights during our stay.
Sharkteeth Tavern
Here you can grab a drink and listen to live music throughout the nights.
Stars, Stripes & Smiles Party & Cookout
Our package we booked we added on the Stars, Stripes & Smiles Party & Cookout. This was held in the ballroom in the lobby. It runs for about $42 (adult) and $18 (kids). You had hot dogs, burgers, chicken and desserts. Along with giveaways and games to play. Overall wasn't worth the price. Not for the food selection. Only reason we booked it was because it was cheaper than a normal night booking rate. Food was so-so, dessert being the best part. Did fill up with a lot of people.
Summer Kickoff Carnival
Outside on the beach during one of the nights was a Carnival, full of blowup games for people to enjoy. It was $30 per wristband and geared mainly towards kids.
Tennis Court
If you're in the mood for some gameplay, check out the Tennis Court. I did not see any place to grab balls and rackets. Might need to bring your own, not sure if inside offered any.
RumFish Beach Resort by TradeWinds
A few hotels down (within walking distance) is the RumFish Beach Resort. This is a smaller resort with less dining options, but still a place you need to check out during your stay. Also several activities are held here, make sure to check your daily guide for more information. The resort also offers another Starbucks location.
RumFish Grill & Bar
One thing you will hear a lot about at the resort and on the room TV is the RumFish Grill & Bar. Appearing on the show Tanked, the guys won a bid to change a ballroom into an amazing dining venue with a stunning view of a massive fishtank. Along with the main show piece tank, you can also check out the Lionfish Tank and Juvenile Tank on display as well. No need for a reservation, head to the left side of the restaurant to get a upclose viewing of the tank. We did get a chance to dine here for lunch. Food was good, nothing to crazy, but still good. The tank was very impressive as well. A bit loud since they had a large group in the front area near the tank. We'd suggest try grabbing a seat near the other smaller juvenile tank for a quieter area. Also make sure to check out the giftshop. Overall you need to really check this section of the resort out. It is really cool!
Snappers
One part that is not on resort property but a short walk across the street was a small restaurant called Snappers. This place is known for it's Wasabi Crusted Tuna. I really wanted to try this, but I wasn't feeling to well and wanted something non-fish and a bit on the safer side for food. I did see others get it and it looked amazing. Even though we did not get it we highly recommend it and let us know what you think of their signature dish. Overall we enjoyed our meals here, very good. If you're looking for a good option outside of the resort head here, you won't be disappointed.
Thank you for checking out our review of TradeWind's Island Resort in St Pete Beach, Florida.
Cant wait we have looked on Trip Advisor and have seen it on there but now that you guys are going we will wait for your review.
ReplyDeleteThe Marshes