The rejuvenation of the Skyway Marina District has never been more apparent than now. On October 19, the Chamber of Commerce, along with city officials cut the ribbon on the latest business to open in the reemerging Marina Mall, Brea’s Coffee.

The once mobile gourmet coffee concept has set roots at 4301 34th Street South — owners Bruce and Andrea McWilliams have already endeared themselves to the local community.  Visitors can enjoy servings of Organo Brand Hot Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, Mocha’s & Espressos, along with Iced Coffee, Tea & Frappe’s.

Caffeine seekers with a demanding sweet tooth are invited to indulge their sweet tooth with creations like the Red Velvet, Caramel or Oreo Frappes. The McWilliams consistently dedicate themselves to helping worthy causes. The duo donates up to 30% of proceeds during fundraising cycles to charity. (they’re currently raising funds through the sales of their red velvet frappe during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.)

Very soon, Kaye’s Vintage Jewelry will join Brea’s at the burgeoning shopping center. Their respective arrivals complement an already diverse mix of food, fun and retail concepts — Doc’s has long stood as a live music bastion in the recently rebranded Skyway Marina District.

Inaugural market and grand opening celebration 

Burg residents are invited to get to know the vendors better during the Skyway Marina Mall’s first outdoor flea market on Saturday, November 4 from 7am-1pm. The local shops will set up outside in the parking lot for a morning/afternoon of sunshine and shopping.

An official coronation ceremony as it were will be held on November 15 during the mall’s grand opening celebration, which runs from 10am-8pm.

Continued revitalization of the Skyway Marina District

The entire Skyway Marina District comprises the 2 mile stretch between 54th Avenue and 29th Avenue South along 34th Street. The area boasts a bounty of culinary and commerce staples, as well as prime access to Ft. De Soto and St. Pete Beach.

Toward the end of 2016, the Publix at Bay Point Plaza (5295 34th Street South) revealed a fresh new look, and Pet Supermarket (5001 34th Street South) officially opened its doors to the public. The city also got to know Elite Watersports — a family owned business in the heart of the Skyway Marina District.
The forward momentum continues in 2017 with the addition of Wawa; a new sushi restaurant is also in the works for the area. It’s first major project — a $70 million mixed-use development — will feature apartments, retail space and foodie spots on 9 acres of land at 30th Avenue South and 34th Street South.

An estimated 35,000 sq. ft. will be devoted to retail. The apartments are said to be tailored to the millennial demographic. Construction on the site should begin this summer. Visit the district’s Facebook page for updates on new developments, openings and events.

The Getaway also has plans to open a 13,000 sq. ft. location in the Skyway Marina District in late 2017/early 2018 at 4801 37th Street South.