Pinellas Point - Saint Petersburg, FL

Greater Pinellas Point is located at the southernmost tip of Pinellas County, Fla., a county with a long history that serves Clearwater, Tampa and St. Petersburg. The area was first inhabited by the Tocobaga Indians who constructed the first town in the county as well as the Pinellas Point Temple Mound. Spanish explorers arrived in the early 1800s, naming the area Punta Pinal, or "Point of Pines." In 1912, Pinellas County was established, followed by the construction of multiple bridges and railroads.

When the real estate market took a hit in 1926, Pinellas County suffered significantly. However, the county bounced back during World War II when the area was utilized as a training site for the U.S. military. The Pinellas County Heritage Village features living exhibits of early structures and hosts a variety of events such as the Country Jubilee, an arts and crafts fair featuring work of local artists.

Residents of Greater Pinellas Point live within minutes of several eateries and bars, many of which are located on Park Boulevard and 66th Street North, making it easy and convenient to dine out any day or night of the week.

When locals are in the mood for authentic Mexican food, they often visit Mexico Lindo, a well-known, family-owned establishment located on Park Boulevard. With tasty menu items such as homemade gorditas, Pazole soup and pork skin tacos, Mexico Lindo's customers keep coming back for more. The restaurant itself is small, but the quality of the food and friendly customer service make up for any lack of decor. Regulars recommend the marinated pork burrito, a spicy favorite filled to the brim with pork, rice, beans and pico de gallo.

If you have a craving for down-home Louisiana fare served right on the bayou, head over to Cajun Cafe On The Bayou on Park Boulevard, just east of Cross Bayou. Specializing in Cajun cuisine such as gumbo, shrimp Creole and po' boy sandwiches, Cajun Cafe's signature dishes and festive waterfront atmosphere make a true winning combination. If you're feeling a bit daring, locals recommend the alligator sauce piquant, a savory dish consisting of fresh alligator smothered in spicy Cajun sauce, served over white rice. You'll also want to save some room for Cajun Cafe's signature whiskey bread pudding served with sweet vanilla ice cream.

For a satisfying lunch served in a pleasant mom-and-pop atmosphere, check out Your Mother's Backyard Sandwiches, a popular lunch spot on 66th Street North. Open for business since 1981, this family-owned cafe serves some of the best sandwiches and homemade soups in town. Signature sandwiches include the turkey club, Italian meatball, and salami and provolone.

When locals are looking for a way to unwind and socialize, they take a trip to Bottles Pub on Park Boulevard North. With a full bar, relaxing atmosphere and karaoke, Bottles is someplace you'll definitely want to visit.

Beach bars are popular in Greater Pinellas Point, as nothing beats a cold brew on a balmy Florida evening. Locals rave over Nepa Hut Beach Bar, often referred to as the "best outdoor beach bar in the area." Nestled behind the Magnuson Hotel on Sunshine Skyway Lane South, patrons enjoy the beautiful views of the water, friendly service and the overall pleasant atmosphere of this local gem.

Walking and biking are both common practices in Greater Pinellas Point, due to the area's close proximity to multiple beaches and parks. Cyclists also have access to 40 miles of bike lanes throughout the entire city of Tampa. Interstate 275 can easily be accessed from Pinellas Point Drive South and Sunshine Skyway Lane South, allowing for convenient commuting into and out of the area.

Residents who utilize public transportation have access to several Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority bus stops located on Pinellas Point Drive South and 20th Street South. Alternative ride services such as Uber and Lyft are illegal in the state of Florida, and local residents do not hail cabs. However, transportation can be scheduled through BATS Taxi of St. Petersburg. Residents and visitors have access to free street parking during designated hours posted on parking enforcement signs, as well as metered parking outside of the immediate community.

Greater Pinellas Point residents have access to over 20,000 acres of parks and nature preserves provided by Pinellas County. Dog owners often head to Fort De Soto Park on Pinellas Bayway South, as it's the only park in the county that allows dogs on the beach.

Families and nature lovers appreciate Lake Seminole Park on Park Boulevard, as it features a designated wildlife sanctuary as well as playgrounds, bike paths and hiking trails. Fitness enthusiasts enjoy Sand Key Park due to its multiple amenities such as trails for jogging and walking, as well as bicycle and kayak rentals.

The parks are free to enter, however, vendors and individuals looking to reserve picnic shelters are required to pay rental fees. Annual events held in England Brothers Bandshell Park on 81st Avenue North include the Greater Pinellas Country Fair and the Pinellas Pepper Fest, an exciting celebration featuring hot sauce competitions, pepper eating contests, live music and more.

The cost of living in Greater Pinellas Point falls approximately 7 percent lower than the cost of living in Tampa, with residents paying an average rental rate of $650 for a one-bedroom apartment. Bus fares into the city range between $1 and $3, with special discounted rates for seniors and youths. Local residents typically pay between $3 and $6 for a beer at local establishments. The cost of gas in Pinellas County is equal to the national average.

While the neighborhood does not have a specific major shopping area, grocery stores, shopping malls and specialty stores can be found throughout Pinellas County. When local residents are in search of apparel and high-end merchandise, they often head over to the Westfield Countryside shopping mall on U.S. Highway 19 North. Well-known retailers include Dillard's and Cricket Wireless. Shoppers can also find high-end merchandise at Coach, a popular designer retailer featuring high-value handbags, as well as Shalimar Jewelers, specializing in high-end jewelry for men and women.

For the latest designs in stylish couture, stop by Paris Isabella Clothing Company on Park Boulevard. Specializing in high-quality fashions and accessories by designers such as Swarovski and Caroline Rocha, this shop definitely ranks high among local fashionistas.

For groceries, sundries and household supplies, local residents shop at Publix Super Market on 54th Avenue South as well as Whole Foods Market located at Westfield Countryside. For fresh fruits, vegetables, crafts, baked goods and spices, shoppers take a trip into downtown Clearwater and visit the Saturday Morning Market, an outdoor farmers' market with over 200 vendors.