For Immediate Release

February 27th, 2025

Catch The Grouper – New Low-Cost PSTA Shuttle between St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) and Clearwater Beach

The Grouper Will Whisk Visitors Between Clearwater Beach Hotels

and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport

Pinellas County, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) launched the Grouper, a brand new, on-demand shuttle service connecting St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) to anywhere on Clearwater Beach, including Sand Key hotels, Sheraton, and Marriott. 

As beachside businesses recover from back-to-back Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Grouper offers a convenient and affordable way to make tourists’ trips to Tampa Bay even easier, as they arrive to support our economy and depart with fantastic memories.

Priced at just $8 for one person, $20 for a group of 2-4, or $30 for a group of 5-8, a trip on the Grouper typically costs much less than many other ride options—at peak times, a one-way ride on other rideshare services can top $115. Plus, the Grouper is staffed by professional drivers in dedicated vehicles that can handle up to nine passengers, luggage, and wheelchairs. The Grouper will also book taxis at the same rates when shuttles are fully booked.

*** EDITORS: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD VIDEO & PHOTOS OF THE GROUPER, INCLUDING A TIMELAPSE OF THE DRIVE TO CLEARWATER BEACH ***

“PSTA’s transit options have been powering our community’s economy for 40 years. For some people, that’s a bus to get to work. For others, it’s a paratransit van to get to school. And now, it’s the Grouper bringing tourists to our beachside hotels and businesses. This is another innovative way PSTA can play a vital role in our community,” said Brad Miller, CEO of PSTA.

“The Grouper is a hassle-free way to start your vacation the moment you land—step off your flight, hop in, and head straight to the beach,” added Tom Jewsbury, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport Director. “It’s designed for groups, big or small, with plenty of room for luggage and wheelchairs. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family, the Grouper gets everyone where they need to go—seamlessly, cost-effectively, and stress-free.”

“We are thrilled to introduce this new transit service, providing visitors with a seamless, stress free connection between PIE and world-famous Clearwater Beach,” said Chairman of the Pinellas County Commission and PSTA Board Member Brian Scott. “This service enhances accessibility, supports local tourism, and ensures travelers can experience our beautiful beaches with greater ease and convenience.”

How It Works:

Book your ride online at psta.net/grouper or through the Grouper app on iPhone or Android. You can request your ride on demand or schedule ahead up to two months in advance. If your flight is delayed, you can easily cancel and rebook with no fees or hassle.

Affordable Fares:

💵 $8 for one person (Seniors age 65+ ride for just $4)

💵 $20 for a group of 2-4

💵 $30 for a group of 5-8

Flexible Pick-Up & Drop-Off Locations:

✈️ At the Airport: Find the shuttle marked with the Grouper logo in the Ground Transportation Lot at PIE. Departing? The Grouper drops you off right at the terminal entrance between Ticketing A and B.

🏖️ On the Beach: Service is available anywhere on Clearwater Beach, plus the Sheraton Sand Key Resort and Clearwater Beach Marriott Resort on Sand Key.

Accessibility & Convenience:

🚌 Spacious shuttles hold up to nine passengers, including luggage and wheelchairs.

🚕 If all Grouper shuttles are booked, the app will direct you to a taxi at the same fare.

The Grouper shuttle service is designed to provide a seamless, stress-free travel experience for visitors and residents alike. Whether you're flying into PIE or enjoying the sun in Clearwater Beach, PSTA’s new service offers an easy, affordable way to get to your destination.

For more information or to book your ride today, visit psta.net/grouper.