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Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town

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Exterior
Exterior
Property grounds
Living area
Living area

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
St Pete Beach, FL
  • Place, St. Petersburg - Clearwater Beaches
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Pass-a-Grille Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Gulf Beaches Historical Museum
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Airport, Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Dining area

About this property

Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town

Historic Pass-A-Grille

Located at the southernmost tip of the chain of Gulf beaches, the
historic village of Pass-A-Grille provides a quiet retreat from the
highrise beaches to the north. Settled in 1884, Pass-A-Grille is
the
oldest and most storied beach village on Florida's west coast.
Roughly 2 miles in length and 200 yards in width, Pass-A-Grille is
surrounded by the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Boca
Ciega Bay. The famous jazz era hotel, the Don Cesar Resort and Spa,
provides the northern boundary of this quaint town. An authentic
turn of the century beach village, you will never need your car upon
arrival in Pass-A-Grille. Shaner's Corner Grocer and Delicatessen,
catering to all your needs, is one block away. Historic 8th Avenue
and pier, the 1920's heart of Pass-A-Grille is also just a stroll
away. On 8th Aveune you can relax and people watch, enjoy beach
taverns, restaurants, shops and art galleries.
There is a new addition to 8th avenue, the Dewey restaurant and rooftop bar located in the new 6 suite bed and breakfast Inn,The Berkeley Beach Club. Operated by local hospitality maven Maryann Ferenc with a menu designed by her James Beard Award winning partner Chef Marty Blitz , It is a fabulous place for your guests to stay and enjoy a magical night or special event. it is now our favorite local hangout spot.In Pass-A-Grille, there is never a dull moment. You will fall in love with this town!


Banyan Tree Cottage

Abstracts of title show that this beautiful 1920 Pass-A-Grille
cottage originally belonged to Carrie Phillips, the confirmed
mistress of President Warren Harding. So, while it's true that
Washington never slept here, it's a sure bet that one of our
presidents did. Over the years, the cottage has been lovingly
restored and cared for. Additions and
renovations were completed in the Fall of 2003 by its architect
owners, and recently in 2021 the kitchen appliances were replaced.
Settle in on the whimsical front porch and enjoy a view of the beach
275 feet to the west. On cool, breezier days retreat to the painted
wood sun room, the original front porch of the cottage now enlosed
with 12 fabulous wood windows. If privacy is what you prefer,
choose
the cozy rear screened porch that opens to a wonderful wood terrace
surrounded by tropical plants and shaded by a 100 year old Banyan
tree. For a unique tropical experience shower in the private outdoor
shower cabana with hot and cold water-under the Banyan's
canopy!

Banyan Tree cottage is our families weekend retreat first and
foremost and therefore is furnished and cared for unlike other
rental properties! We offer an unparralled experience in terms of
tropical style,character and comfort for those with discerning
tastes.
Note:If you would like to take a look at the house in person,it is
located at 102 18th ave.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

St. Pete Beach

Located in Pass-a-Grille, a neighbourhood in St. Pete Beach, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Shoppers can check out John's Pass Village & Boardwalk, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of St. Petersburg - Clearwater Beaches and Tampa Bay. Ready for a night out? Consider Jannus Live and North Shore Aquatic Center. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Holiday homes in St. Petersburg - ClearwaterOpens in a new window
Map
St Pete Beach, FL

What's nearby

  • St. Petersburg - Clearwater Beaches - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Pass-a-Grille Beach - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Hurley Park - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Gulf Beaches Historical Museum - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Merry Pier - 11 min walk - 1.0 km

Getting around

  • St. Petersburg, FL (SPG-Albert Whitted) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪7-Eleven - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Paradise Grille - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪The Wharf - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Island Grill - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Hurricane Seafood Restaurant - ‬10 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town?

As of 27 Mar, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town on 31 Mar, 2026 start from S$346, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Banyan Tree Cottage in historic beach town located?

Located in Pass-a-Grille, this holiday home is steps away from Hurley Park and St. Petersburg - Clearwater Beaches. Pass-a-Grille Beach and Gulf Beaches Historical Museum are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marianne H.

Relaxing vacation

The house is great for relaxing and visiting the beach and the bay. Perfectly situated for an easy walk to the water and restaurants. We bought our fresh meat and fish from Shaner's Market every night and prepared delicious dinners at the house.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr, 2020
Thank you Marianne, you guys were great! Please comer back soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

don h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great property

Just like the pictures... Exceptionally clean-on a quiet street- close to beach and restaurants- Very comfortable furniture-Cant go wrong here..
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr, 2020
Thanks so much Don! Please hurry back!!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Donna L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location in Pass-A-Grille

Nice place to stay in Pass-A-Grille. Great sun room in front and front patio was nice. Nice functional kitchen. Would have loved more comfy furniture in sun room - spent a lot of time in there reading. Host was very nice and quick to respond when I had questions.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jan, 2022
Thanks Donna, You guys were wonderful and please come back to see us. Thank you for pointing out just how much that windowed room ( once the original porch ) is used . I agree and we will take it to heart. Thank you!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Keri N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful History

I love the history of this house and island! The house is in great condition and still retains the historic touches. The location is easy access to the beach, restaurants, shops and main roads but is quiet and private. The owners are great and very responsive to any questions. Without a doubt, we will book this property again.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr, 2020
Thanks so much Keri!! You guys are wonderful! Please hurry back and we will try to add some additional comforts to the cottage:)!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Spot in Passa Grille!

Stayed three weeks in April. House is well equipped, very close to the beach. Quiet neighborhood. Easy check in. Host was in touch during our stay to be sure everything was going well. We had a fine time. Recommend with 5 stars.
Stayed 21 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 30 May, 2022
Thanks so much Julie! You guys were great and please return!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vicki T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Old Fashioned Comfort

This property worked out great for me. I am a woman alone who appreciated the history and convenience of this property. I spent hours on the large front porch. Many friends stopped by and admired my choice.
Stayed 11 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Jun, 2021
Thanks so much Vicki! Our little cottage is a throwback to a simpler time, albeit with contemporary comforts and technology when you need it. Please return often!!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adam P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A real gem!!

Perfect place for a home away from home just steps from the beach. The house is a rare remnant of bungalow days with all the modern amenities. The beach is steps away, The bigger trappings of St. Pete's Beach including dozens of restaurants, supermarket, etc., are a short hop away up the road but you get to hide away in the tranquil setting of Pass A Grill. Can't wait to go back if the opportunity arises.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jan, 2022
Thanks so much Adam, you guys were dream guests! Please come on back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Easy comfy relaxing stay!

Rented banyan tree house for a week away with my hubby, daughter and her boyfriend and we loved everything about our stay! Host was so concise in his communications and low key with checkout directives (unlike some hosts). The house is so comfortable and perfect for two couples...plenty of space to spread out. Photos on VRBO do not do the place justice. It’s so clean and “beachy”. Plus the location is perfect for beach and just a short walk to downtown PAG. We will most certainly be back!!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Jun, 2021
Thanks so much Jill, you guys were great! Please let us know how we can make the experience better and please return!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming Pass-a-Grille Cottage

Lovely property and great location. One bed is very firm, while the other is very soft-take your pick! Really cute decor and well-equipped kitchen. It feels lived-in and comfortable and was sparkling clean. Stephen was very responsive to all my questions and concerns. I had no prior contact regarding entry code or where to park, so I had to figure those things out. Once inside, parking instructions were available, but would have been nice to know in advance where we were supposed to park. These were not huge issues, and Stephen was quick to respond as noted. The front porch was a nice place to just hang out, but bring your bug spray! We really enjoyed seeing the flock of wild, Nanday parrots every morning. So cool! The back, screened-in porch was really too small to use and no furniture was available for use there. If that front porch was screened, I may never have left! Another bonus was only 1 block from the marina where we got to rent our own small speedboat. What a thrill. Loved this place, truly a great stay!
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Oct, 2021
Thank you Angela for the kind review and great advice ! We will send that parking and code information when folks book . Thank you again and please return!!
Archival

4/10 Poor

Sue T.

Great Location But...

Apparently, we are the outcasts on reviews of this cottage when compared to what others had to say. I cannot explain why as I do not feel we are all that picky. We have stayed in multiple VRBO properties in recent years and rarely have written negative comments. Notes on our stay: 2 couples shared the cottage for 8 nights Upsides: • Great location; walking distance to bars, restaurants and Pass a Grille shops • Charming “old Florida” atmosphere with a lovely front porch • Appreciated the availability of beach chairs • Owners were very responsive when we lost the Internet connection and in response to another issue • Nice collection of books if you need a beach read The downsides: • Hall bathroom was not clean (floor, tub, window sill) • Refrigerator was really dirty • Cleaned the counters myself before we started using the kitchen (film of dust/sand?) • The door handle to the hall bathroom fell off repeatedly; couldn’t close the door all the way the entire week after having been locked in once when the handle fell off. • Uncomfortable beds – mattresses are very old with major craters (both bedrooms) • One comfortable sofa in living room • Very old and small TV • Wi-fi service is limited – must sit in the living room to use it with any confidence it won’t cut out (not a problem if you don’t need it for work but two of us needed it daily for work issues) • Front room is lovely but 2-seat wicker sofa very uncomfortable • Could not use the gas grill; bought a new tank (owner reimbursed us) but just couldn’t get it to work. Both couples have owned gas grills for years so it wasn’t a matter of not knowing what we were doing. If a grill is that difficult to start, a new one is needed. Please note that we did not inform the owners of the issues noted in our “downsides” as we didn’t feel they could be addressed immediately so there was no point.
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr, 2020
Thank you Sue T for your review. We want to assure you these things will be addressed as we want all of our guests to enjoy their stay at our cottage! We have replaced our cleaning service since your visit and we will address your other concerns right now. Thank you again and please consider returning!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lynn P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable stay in PAG

We’ve visited PAG several times over the years and usually stay at Inn on the Beach. We wanted to try something different this year and are very happy the Banyan Tree Cottage was available. The location was perfect, the cottage very pretty, and we were all comfortable. We especially appreciated the privacy afforded between the bedrooms and the rest of the house. Already looking ahead to next year there!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sweet, historic bungalow near the beach and historic 8th Avenue.

A very comfortable 2 bedroom, 2 bath house with a nice front porch on a quiet street. You can see a peek of the Gulf and bay from the porch. The kitchen is well equipped with all you need. Beach toys and chairs also provided. The outdoor shower was our favorite amenity, we never showered inside.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Sandy L.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

October in Pass-A-Grille

Property is walking distance to the beach. Love Pass-A-Grille.
Stayed 14 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jan, 2022
Thanks Sandy I appreciate your comments! Please include us in your future plans!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beach House

Great experience at this beautiful home close to the beach. The property is well maintained and very picturesque.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nora B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful house!

This beautiful house was perfect in every way. Attractively decorated, comfortable with all necessary amenities, steps to the beach, stores and restaurants. The only negative of our trip had nothing to do with the house. Unfortunately, we arrived during “red tide” season which made for unpleasant odors and views of dead fish outside. Air conditioning in the house fortunately filtered out the odors. Despite the red tide, we’d happily come back to Pass-a-Grille and the Banyon tree house anytime!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Oct, 2021
Thank you again Nora ! So sorry the red tide coincided with your stay . Thankfully impacting the beach experience is a rare event . Please return and give Pass a Grille another go!:)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfy and Cozy

We felt right at home at the Banyan Cottage. Tastefully decorated, well appointed, and very close to the beach! We were here during the red tide and the city just cleaned the dang beach on the day of our departure. We still had a blast. Lots of fun things to do all over the area. Stephen was a great host and the bungalow was wonderful! Lovely front porch, cute den, cozy living room with a ceiling fan, both bedrooms were good size with ceiling fans, and two bathrooms were key with our family of four. I would definitely recommend this cottage to anyone interested in a low key, relaxing vacation without the crowds. Thanks for having us!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Oct, 2021
Thank you so much John , you folks were great guests . Please think of us again for your next beach vacation . We will try to make the experience even better !
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent place to stay!

We loved the cottage. Perfect location, very homey. We can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 May, 2021
Please come back soon Katie, and you guys were great!In the off-season we are going to give a little cottage some more love and add and replace some things. Thanks!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great week!

Wonderful house in a great neighborhood with a beautiful beach! We truly enjoyed it and hope to return someday. Felt very at home, almost washed the windows! Thanks for a really nice getaway.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 May, 2021
Thanks so much Steve!! Please return soon, and I promise we will wash the salt spray off the windows :-) don’t want you to have to lift a finger except with a glass of wine ! :-)
Verified

8/10 Good

Catherine (Noyes) M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nearly perfect

I originally booked the property for four of us to stay there. Because of conflicting work schedules only my youngest daughter and I ended up being able to go. The check in process was easy, the owners were very responsive and the property was very clean. The main living area is well appointed including the kitchen. (Although I could never get the microwave to not burn my popcorn lol). My daughter and I were very comfortable, but if all four of us have been there it would have been way too small. The beds are very small (double?) for a week vacation and two people per bed. The couch is comfy but the other seating options are very narrow wicker chairs. We are slender... but on the taller side. The TV is small and outdated. The bathrooms were clean and spacious. Laundry area is great with a door to outside. Outside shower ans ample parking are nice adds. Super close to beach, and other amenities. Loved it, but would really suggest larger beds for visitors.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Apr, 2021
Thanks so much Catherine for your review. We will certainly take the comments to heart. The beds are queens believe it or not, but still, once you sleep in kings, nothing beats it! We are seriously considering that and will check the fit in the cottage-sized rooms. Other suggestions are great and DEFINITELY the tv will be replaced with a larger one. It's an HD flat screen but 28"-32" is my guess. You sit pretty close but these smaller screens just dont cut it these days compared to what folks have in their full time residences. Thanks, and please come back!:)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We loved our stay!

We had a wonderful spring break and enjoyed our stay in this beautiful home. We loved being so close to the beach, and had everything we needed to walk over and spend long days playing in the ocean. Everything is within walking distance of the property, so we rarely used our rental car. Our kids loved taking walks to the beach and to get ice cream. The owner is extremely helpful, and overall we had a wonderful experience. We hope to visit again in the future 😊
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Apr, 2021
Thanks so much Kristen! Please return!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bob M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The house was like staying in a HGTV house. Nicely decorated and remodeled! Super close to everythin

A great week, walking distance to beach and restaurants!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Oasis in Pass a Grille

A hidden jewel. Secluded but less than a block to the beach. We will be back.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rick W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Escaping winter

Great cottage wonderfully located just steps from the beach & inter coastal. Loved the front porch for evening drinks & morning coffee
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Winter Getaway

Such a perfect getaway from our MN winter. This bungalow is stylish, comfortable and includes all amenities needed. We love the location in the heart of Pass-A-Grille where we could walk to beach, shopping and restaurants. We highly recommend this property.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kim l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Getaway

From start to finish the owner was communicative, cooperative, and very personable. The cottage is exactly as it appears online, perfectly equipped, clean, and exudes charm. The location is superb. We all loved it and plan to return!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Dec, 2020
Thank you so much Kim!

About the host

Hosted by Stephen F. Smith

Host profile image
Owners Stephen and Betsy Smith are nearby Tampa natives. Stephen is an architect and partner of Cooper Johnson Smith Peterson Architects. The firm specializes in coastal architecture around the hemisphere . Betsy has recently retired from directing the non-profit Voices For Children (benefitting the Guardian Ad Litem program of Hillsborough County), and spends her days as the architecture firm's marketing director and playmate to their rambunctious rescue greyhound Leia. The couples happiest times are spent reading or snook fishing along Florida's magnificent beaches .
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