Why Study English in St. Petersburg?
If you're looking for a peaceful, sunny, and scenic place to improve your English, ELS St. Petersburg is the perfect choice. Located in St. Petersburg, Florida, this coastal city offers international students the opportunity to learn in a calm and friendly environment while enjoying beautiful beaches, green spaces, and a warm climate year-round.
Known as "The Sunshine City," St. Petersburg holds the record for the most consecutive sunny days in the United States. It's a popular destination for both vacationers and students seeking a high quality of life while pursuing their academic and personal goals. With ELS St. Petersburg programs, you can enjoy high-quality English education and an inspiring environment that fosters growth and exploration.
Experience the Benefits of ELS St. Petersburg on the campus of Eckerd College
One of the most exciting aspects of ELS St. Petersburg is its location on the campus of Eckerd College, a well-known liberal arts college with a beautiful waterfront campus. Studying at ELS St. Petersburg allows you to experience a traditional American college setting while receiving specialized support as an English language learner.
Why Choose ELS St. Petersburg on the campus of Eckerd College?
- Access to College Facilities: As an ELS student, you can use the college's library, computer lab, cafeteria, gymnasium, sports facilities, and more!
- Academic Excellence: ELS is known for its academic excellence, with its Intensive English levels 109 and 112 meeting the English language entry requirement for over 600 colleges and universities throughout the United States, including Eckerd College!
- Supportive Campus Life: International students benefit from a diverse community on a college campus where it's easy to make friends and adjust to life in a new country.
Discover St. Petersburg, Florida – Beaches, Nature, and City Life
St. Petersburg, Florida, is located on the Gulf Coast of the United States and offers an excellent quality of life for students. It's known for its white-sand beaches, relaxed pace, and green public spaces. The city is also great for going on walks and bike rides, making it easy to explore even on a student budget.
As one of the most livable cities in the southeastern United States, St. Petersburg combines modern infrastructure with a calm atmosphere, making it an ideal place to study English abroad while feeling safe, supported, and inspired.

Fun Facts About St. Petersburg, Florida
- "The Sunshine City": St. Petersburg once recorded 768 consecutive days of sunshine, a world record.
- Surrounded by Water: The city is located between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, giving students easy access to beaches and coastal parks.
- Home to Unique Architecture: The city features colorful historic buildings and open-air markets, reflecting its tropical and artistic culture.
- Preserved Natural Spaces: With more than 150 parks and nature preserves, St. Petersburg is one of the greenest cities in Florida.
- Book-Loving Community: St. Petersburg is known for its numerous libraries, bookstores, and public reading spaces, making it an ideal destination for relaxing and studying outdoors.
St. Petersburg's Sports Scene – A City for Active Lifestyles
Whether you enjoy playing sports or watching them, St. Petersburg offers something for everyone. Sports are a great way for international students in St. Petersburg to have fun, make friends, and practice conversational English.
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB): Enjoy baseball games at Tropicana Field, just a short ride from the ELS campus.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL): Watch American football at Raymond James Stadium, located nearby in Tampa.
- Tampa Bay Rowdies (USL): Experience the excitement of professional soccer at Al Lang Stadium, located in downtown St. Petersburg.
- Beach Volleyball and Water Sports: The area's beaches are perfect for volleyball, kayaking, swimming, and more.

Budget-Friendly Activities for International Students in St. Petersburg
Studying abroad can be a significant financial investment. St. Petersburg offers many free and low-cost activities to enjoy, helping you to make the most of your time while staying within your budget.
- St. Pete Pier: Capture beautiful photos and take peaceful walks at the St. Pete Pier, a popular local gathering spot.
- St. Pete Beach: Relax or swim at one of America's top-rated beaches, located near the ELS St. Petersburg campus.
- Bonelli Regional Park: Located near La Verne, this park features lakeside trails, picnic areas, and scenic views that are perfect for a day outdoors.
- Museum Free Days: Some of the city's art and history museums offer free or reduced admission for students throughout the year.
- Boyd Hill Nature Preserve: Explore 245 acres of wildlife trails, ideal for hiking and bird-watching.
- Pinellas Trail: A long, safe bike trail that connects St. Petersburg with neighboring towns, great for exercise and sightseeing.
- Saturday Morning Market: Find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious international food at this friendly and affordable market.
Understanding the Climate in St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg has a subtropical climate, which means warm temperatures year-round and plenty of sunny days.
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures are warm, and flowers are in full bloom. This season is a great time for picnics and outdoor events.
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid with daily sunshine and occasional rain. It's the perfect season for swimming and water activities.
- Fall (September-November): Slightly cooler with fewer crowds, making it a peaceful time to enjoy the city's natural beauty.
- Winter (December-February): Mild winters with temperatures rarely falling below 15°C (59°F). Perfect for beach walks and outdoor study sessions.
Why Choose ELS St. Petersburg?
ELS St. Petersburg offers a unique opportunity to improve your English while living in one of the most beautiful and peaceful areas in the United States. Whether your goal is to attend a university, start a new career, or become more confident in English, ELS St. Petersburg programs will help you succeed in a supportive and inspiring environment.
By studying on the Eckerd College campus, you'll enjoy a high-quality learning experience, access to academic and recreational facilities, and the chance to live only minutes from world-class beaches. You'll also become part of a global student community that supports your growth and celebrates your success.
Are you ready to study English in St. Petersburg? Visit our website to learn more about ELS St. Petersburg programs, or fill out the form below to begin your journey today!