Dunedin, a beautiful coastal city with rich Scottish heritage, offers a relaxing retreat just north of St. Pete — and even after 2 major storms this city is still shining. You can enjoy a rather scenic bike ride to the charming town via the Pinellas Trail. Though it’s the fifth-largest city in the area, Dunedin feels like a step back to a more serene, simple Florida. With its relaxed pace, it’s the perfect place to explore charming downtown streets or unwind on two of the region’s most beautiful beaches.
Start your weekend getaway at The Fenway (453 Edgewater Dr), a historic Jazz Age hotel. This beautifully restored property features a stunning pool, a hidden speakeasy (look for Room 27), and the highly-rated Hew restaurant. Its rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, making it a must-visit. You can book your stay online and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Need more hotel ideas? Reference Visit St. Pete-Clearwater’s website for more great places to stay.
If you visit in the spring/summer, we high recommend a visit to TD Ballpark. It’s the Toronto Blue Jays spring training facility, and is the home of the minor league squad the Dunedin Blue Jays. Learn more about the park, and upcoming events here.
Stroll under the charming floating umbrellas
See more things to do, places to stay, breweries to visit in Dunedin courtesy of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.
Before we continue, yes you absolutely should take a stroll beneath the floating umbrellas in downtown Dunedin. They belong to a local business called Iberian Import Co. (966 Douglas Ave), which brought a taste of Spain and Portugal to the coastal community.
Beaches, cafes, and beautiful are in Dunedin
Begin your day at Tukro Coffee (472 Wood St), one of Pinellas County’s top cafes. Indulge in a snickerdoodle latte and freshly baked croissants while enjoying the cozy ambiance of this hidden gem. If you’re really taken by the charm, you can even stay at the Airbnb upstairs for a true café experience.
Next, head to the Dunedin Fine Arts Center (1143 Michigan Blvd). This creative space includes the David L. Mason Children’s Art Museum, which offers interactive and hands-on exhibits designed to make art fun for kids. After exploring, take a break at the Palm Café and browse the fantastic Gallery Gift Shop for unique souvenirs.
Unwind at beautiful Honeymoon Island
NOTE: Honeymoon Island is currently closed. Check back for updates on the Florida State Parks Department’s website. Explore Honeymoon Island. This scenic beach destination offers over four miles of coastline and a three-mile nature trail through one of the last untouched slash pine forests in Florida. Open from 8am until sundown year-round, Honeymoon Island is a great place to soak up the sun and explore the area’s natural beauty. The entry fee is $8 per vehicle.
Take in the history of Dunedin at a cultural gem. The Dunedin History Museum offers a captivating look into the town’s past, housed in a historic train depot that turns 100 years old in 2024. Visitors can explore exhibits like “Echoes of the Junction” and experience the stories that shaped Dunedin’s legacy.
Historic building celebrates 100 years in Dunedin
Originally a functioning depot until 1987, the building underwent a major renovation in 2017, creating new galleries and interactive displays. Supported by the City of Dunedin and the State of Florida, the museum continues to preserve and celebrate the town’s rich cultural heritage.
Wrap up your first day with a delicious dinner at Bon Appetit, voted “Tampa Bay’s Best Waterfront Restaurant.” With a menu rich in seafood options, as well as plenty of choices for meat lovers, there’s something for everyone. Dine with a view of St. Joseph Sound from their waterfront bar, a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
For dessert, head over to Strachan’s Homemade Ice Cream for decadent flavors like JaMocha Almond Chip and Cherry Wow-za.
Breweries, Celtic shops, and fresh coffee with a view
Kick off your second day at Sandpiper Coffee Roaster (833 Douglas Ave). Serving Dunedin since 2015, Sandpiper offers a relaxed, fun atmosphere, perfect for enjoying all your favorite espresso drinks. Pair your coffee with Cuban breakfast favorites, Belgian waffles, or an avocado tartine.
If you’re seeking a bit more activity, then hit the trail. Biking the Pinellas Trail is one of the top activities in Dunedin (and Pinellas County), offering an adventurous way to explore the area. This 50-mile trail runs through Downtown Dunedin, extending from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs and into Pasco County. Kafe Racer, conveniently located along the trail, offers rental bikes right on site, making it easy to hop on and ride. The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail, built along a former railroad corridor, provides a safe, scenic green space for biking, walking, jogging, and skating. Pinellas County maintains the trail, ensuring its accessibility for all.
For those seeking adventure, head to Hammock Park (1900 San Mateo Dr), a 75-acre natural haven with five miles of trails, a wildlife observation platform, and picnic shelters. In addition to a butterfly garden and treehouse-themed playground, Hammock Park is a popular spot for birdwatching and is featured in the “Great Florida Birding Trail Book.”
Afterward, enjoy lunch at Mangos and Marley: A Coastal Cafe (506 Main St). Known for its excellent beer list and fresh, hearty dishes, this local favorite serves up fire-roasted quesadillas, crab cakes, mango and black bean tostadas, and even plant-based bowls.
Take home a piece of Scotland while in Dunedin
Dunedin’s rich Scottish heritage dates back to 1885, when Scottish merchants John O. Douglas and James Somerville settled in the area. They opened a general store and petitioned to name the local post office Dunedin, inspired by their hometown of Edinburgh’s Gaelic name, Dùn Èideann, which means “castle on the rock.”
Every April, the city celebrates its roots with the Dunedin Highland Games and Festival. This lively event showcases bagpipes, clan parades, traditional Highland competitions, and a variety of family-friendly entertainment, drawing crowds to honor Dunedin’s Scottish legacy.
The original mercantile business may be long gone but no visit to Dunedin would be complete without a stop at The Celtic Shop (354 Main St), a store that celebrates the town’s proud Scottish and Celtic heritage. Here, you’ll find quality items imported from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, as well as traditional kilts and other handcrafted treasures.
Explore the oldest microbrewery in Florida
Before wrapping up your visit, stop by Dunedin Brewery (937 Douglas Ave), Florida’s oldest microbrewery. In addition to its renowned beers, Dunedin Brewery hosts live music performances every weekend and a weekly Wednesday Night Open Jam. With fresh brews on tap weekly and new menu creations dropping every Tuesday, this brewery is a hub of creativity and entertainment.
End your day in Dunedin with a tropical escape at The Honu, a cozy tiki restaurant and bar on Grant Street. Indulge in Hawaiian-inspired dishes like BBQ pork, pan-seared fish sandwiches, flavorful salmon bowls, and savory musubi. Don’t forget to save room for their decadent Kona coffee brownie. For a more intimate experience, head inside to the Ka Pekele Rum Bar, where you can sip expertly crafted cocktails and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and savor the flavors of the islands.
Authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Tina
We also highly recommend the exceptional Casa Tina (365 Main St). This expansive Mexican tavern features live entertainment and a classic menu with ample vegan options. Their signature dishes include:
- Mole Poblano: Roasted chocolate, chilies, raisins, almonds and sesame seeds creating a slightly sweet and spicy aromatic sauce. Served as chicken, cheese or veggie enchiladas.
- Chiles Rellenos: Fresh fire roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and topped with a mild chipolte tomato sauce and served with sour cream
- Arroz Cabezon: Pork and chicken in a tangy pibil sauce
made from the Mayan spice achiote served on a bed of rice and garnished with guacamole and pickled red onion. - Fish Tacos Ensenada Style: Grilled fish, cabbage, cilantro, and cheese in handmade soft corn tortillas. Served with black beans, rice, black
- bean and corn salad, roasted tomato salsa and cilantro cream sauce.
- Plantains A La Mode: Fried sweet bananas dusted in cinnamon and sugar. Topped with vanilla ice cream, almonds and a chocolate drizzle.
The restaurant also has a big Day of the Dead celebration planned for Dunedin in October. Full details can be found here.
Finish your trip with a nightcap at Sonder Social Club (966 Douglas Ave, Unit 101). Known for its innovative craft cocktails and warm atmosphere, Sonder transforms its space into seasonal wonderlands throughout the year, offering a playful and welcoming spot to end your time in Dunedin.
Want to do some more exploring? Check out our guide to Tarpon Springs, a slice of Greece in Pinellas County.
