Hidden Treasures of Treasure Island Florida

Guest Writer: Philip Hannigen

Treasure Island, Florida is a popular tourist destination with many popular attractions. There are quite a few hidden treasures that can be found if you know where to look. From places to relax on the beach with your favorite adult beverage to the best unknown restaurant to have all-you-can-eat crab legs, there are many local gems that most travelers may not otherwise find. Treasure Island is a beautiful place to spend a vacation and these tips will help you truly enjoy the area the way the locals have been for years.

Treasure Island Beach Trail - One of the best ways to appreciate the natural beauty of Treasure Island is this trail. The trail is roughly a mile long and located at the northern part of the island where the beach is widest. This is a great place to take a walk, run, or bike ride without actually having to be on the sand. A great idea is take a walk down the trail just before sunset and watch the sun make its way down across the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. There really is no better place to take a walk and enjoy the splendor that is Treasure Island.

Alcohol on the Beach - Everyone likes to have a nice pina colada, daiquiri, or their favorite beer while relaxing on the beach during vacation. Well, a really nice aspect of Treasure Island is that you are able to do this with little restriction generally. There is a stretch of the beach from about 99th Ave and south to Gulf Blvd and Blind Pass Dr where alcohol is not permitted on the weekend and Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Independence Day from 8am until 6pm. There is plenty of other beach area that you can enjoy your delicious adult beverages while basking in the splendor that is Treasure Island. There is nothing quite like having a cold beer with your feet in the sand while watching the sun sink into the water.

VIP Lounge & Restaurant - This establishment that looks like a dive-bar located at 10625 Gulf Blvd is actually hiding some of the best Mexican food in the area. Make sure to have plenty of time to spare when entering, because this place is always packed full. A good idea is to go in for lunch when the crowds are not as hectic. There is definitely a reason that VIP fills up the way it does and that is some truly delicious Mexican food and reasonably priced drinks. Keep in mind that VIP is mostly a bar that serves stellar food, so do not expect to be entering a fine dining establishment by any means. The salsa at VIP comes extremely highly recommended and no trip to Treasure Island would be complete without a taste.

Foxy's Cafe - If you are looking for a great place to get breakfast during your stay on Treasure Island, this is the place for you. Foxy's is located at 160 107th Ave. and is where you will find all the locals fueling up in the morning for another day in paradise. Foxy's also offers some tasty fare for the rest of the day and any of the pizzas come with glowing reviews. The service is always friendly, even when they are slammed in the morning. Also, the food is very reasonably priced and many who try Foxy's are sure to return.

R Bar - This is a bar with a decent amount of seating that serves a wide array of food including all-you-can-eat crab legs on Tuesdays and Thursdays. R Bar is located at 245 108th Ave and is a local favorite around Treasure Island. R Bar leans heavily to the bar aspect of the business and it is not particularly a great place to bring children but is great for an adult night out on the town.

There are many other local gems to be found around Treasure Island and you always have to keep your eyes open for them. Next time you walk by that dive bar or little restaurant, take a trip inside because they may have your new favorite meal or drink.

Take a vacation in Treasure Island, Florida and enjoy finding your own hidden treasures. Consider staying in a Treasure Island, Florida motel on your vacation.