We visit St Pete Beach for the beach and all that implies. It is the perfect way to end a Disney trip...few crowds, no lines, cheap eats, soft sand, gentle surf, dolphins. Lots of unwinding and relaxing! Disney's DVC have spoiled us, hotel rooms aren't enough anymore. We found a little condo right on St Pete Beach for the same price as the beachfront hotel rooms we were renting in nearby resorts. Kitchen, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, washer/dryer, deck...oh yes!
With Tropicana Stadium an easy 15 minutes away, it's fun to take in a ball game during the stay. St Pete Beach is an older tourist spot so it's quiet with lots of affordable restaurants. Fort De Soto State Park is nearby and supposed to be a nice spot to visit (haven't been). Tampa International Airport (TPA) is about 30 minutes away and provides an alternative to Orlando International. Busch Gardens is in Tampa but I don't know how far a drive from St Pete Beach.
Sorry I'm rambling but this is one of our very favorite places to visit!
Happy travels.