Matter of Taste: Ice Cream on the Beach

Let’s be honest: the beach and ice cream were made for each other. There’s a perfect balance that lies in the smoldering heat of the Florida sun combined with soft, cold ice cream. Fortunately, there is no shortage of icy treat vendors along the beaches. From the tip of the south to the traffic in the north, the Pinellas Beaches are crawling with ice cream serving establishments.

• Larry’s @ 6595 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach

Get the feel of a genuine ice cream parlor at Larry’s on St. Pete Beach. This little shop plays host to more than 80 flavors of ice cream. Now, Larry’s also offers 30+ types of gelato to customers looking for something cold and sweet. Pricing is competitive and reasonable.

• Sweets ‘n Treats @ 10641 Gulf Boulevard, Treasure Island

Located in the heart of Treasure Island is Sweet ‘n Treats, a one stop sweet shop. Homemade fudge, candy galore and mounds of ice cream keep customers coming back for more. The shop has indoor seating and prices are cheap.

• John’s Pass @ Madeira Beach

*JJ’s Ice Cream and Ices- 204 Boardwalk Place East
JJ’s offers Hershey’s Ice Cream, soft serve ice cream and italian ice. They also make coffee drinks and just added bulk candy to their services.

*Sugar Daddy’s- 110 John’s Pass Boardwalk
These ice cream pro’s offer more than just the usual flavors. A massive variety of ice cream makes it a good spot for something different. Prices are cheap and the staff is friendly too.

*Kohr Family Frozen Custard- 12831 Village Boulevard
A little different than regular ice cream, Kohr offers fresh frozen custard. The flavors are innumerable and customers can enjoy it in a cone or cup.

• Candy Kitchen @ 18131 Gulf Boulevard, Redington Shores

Candy Kitchen is a local favorite. Aside from the hundreds of branded candies, this sugar infused venue also has ice cream and fudge. Prices vary depending on the choice of sweetness, but cost is comparable to other shops.

• Pinky’s 1401 Gulf Boulevard (Unit #1), Indian Rocks Beach

Pinky’s is not just a place to indulge in an icy delight. Customers can also enjoy an assortment of candies and fudge. There is also a variety of souvenirs up for grabs. Traditional favorites like ice cream on stick stand out. Prices are competitive.