January in Pinellas County is one of our best months for enjoying the outdoors. With pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and fewer summer crowds, it’s ideal for beach days, nature hikes, trails, paddles, and exploring parks that make this region one of Florida’s most active outdoor playgrounds.
Here’s your guide to outdoor activities that are perfect in January — whether you’re visiting, new to the area, or thinking about moving here.
🏖️ Beach Days & Waterfront Fun
Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, Pass-A-Grille, Caladesi & More
Enjoy soft sand and cool breezes along miles of Gulf Coast shoreline. Even in January, a sunny afternoon is perfect for:
✔ Walking the shoreline or collecting shells
✔ Picnicking on the beach
✔ Sunset watching at Pier 60 (beachfront celebration at dusk)
Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida
Tip: Fort De Soto’s beaches remain a favorite year-round destination with its natural shoreline and park setting — and sections of it may continue reopening through January.
🚶♂️ Trails & Nature Walks
Pinellas County offers parks and preserves where you can stretch your legs and enjoy wildlife spotting without summer heat.
Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail
This 45-mile paved trail connects communities from Tarpon Springs down to St. Petersburg — perfect for biking, walking, or jogging.
Wikipedia
Weedon Island Preserve
Explore more than 3,000 acres of boardwalks, trails, bird watching, and water access — great for a peaceful day outdoors.
Pinellas County
Brooker Creek Preserve
Nearly 9,000 acres of wooded trails and environmental education make this a great spot for hiking and nature exploration.
Mobbly Bayou Preserve
Trails, scenic views, and picnic areas offer another excellent day adventure.
Lake Seminole Park
With walking trails, picnic spots, water views, and playgrounds, this park is ideal for family days in the fresh air.
🐦 Wildlife Watching & Eco Adventures
Pinellas County’s natural preserves are excellent for birding and wildlife observation any time of year.
Sawgrass Lake Park (great for boardwalk walks and wildlife)
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Mangrove trails and nature boardwalks at local nature preserves (perfect for photography and bird watching)
Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida
🚴♀️ Biking, Running & Fitness Outdoors
Take advantage of cooler temps for cardio outdoors:
✔ The Pinellas Trail for cycling and long runs
✔ Local parks with fitness trails and open space walks
Pinellas County
✔ Beachside jogging paths for scenic views
January is ideal because heat and humidity are at some of their lowest levels of the year.
🛶 Kayaking, Paddleboarding & Water Trails
January breezes make paddling peaceful and scenic. Popular water-based areas include:
Launch spots at Weedon Island Preserve
Pinellas County
Clearwater and St. Pete waterways for kayaking and SUP
Kayak tours around Shell Key Preserve (seasonally available via tours)
🌳 Botanical Walks & Garden Visits
For a calmer outdoor experience:
🌺 Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo offers expansive themed gardens perfect for a stroll and photos — even in winter.
Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida
🌞 Picnics & Park Days
Across Pinellas County’s parks, you’ll find picnic shelters, playgrounds, and open space ideal for a family outdoor day.
Pinellas County
Some favorite outdoor picnic spots include wooded parks, lakeside shelters, and beachside grassy areas — all great for grabbing lunch to go and enjoying a sunny afternoon.
🏙️ Outdoor Festivals & Seasonal Events
While January can be quieter than peak winter holiday weeks, Pinellas County’s Visit St. Pete-Clearwater events calendar often features outdoor markets, live music in parks, and community walks — keep an eye on the monthly schedule for up-to-date listings as the dates get closer.
Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida
🌤️ Why January Is Perfect for Outdoor Fun
January in Pinellas County strikes a near-perfect balance — warm enough to be comfortable, cool enough to be active. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or fitness opportunities outside, this region really shines in winter.
Thinking about living where every month feels like a getaway?
📩 Contact Pam Lombard to explore homes near your favorite outdoor destinations in Pinellas County.