Family-Owned Since 1954 – Full-Service Marina – Boat Storage – Fuel Dock – Bait & Tackle Shop – Tidewater Dealer
O’Neill’s Marina is St. Petersburg’s premier family-owned and operated full-service marina, established in 1954, featuring covered lift storage, wet slips, dry storage, trailer storage, full-service fuel dock with competitive pricing, comprehensive bait and tackle shop, boat ramp with 24/7 access, marine mechanic services as authorized Mercury, Yamaha, and Volvo dealer, and Tidewater boat sales (new and used).
Located at 6701 Sunshine Skyway Lane South (also listed as 6701 34th Street South) in St. Petersburg near the mouth of Tampa Bay and adjacent to Maximo Park, this strategically-positioned facility combines professional marina operations with convenient I-275 access, making it ideal for fishing enthusiasts and boaters seeking comprehensive services with family-owned hospitality. O’Neill’s Marina’s 70+ years of operation, proximity to the Sunshine Skyway and Tampa Bay fishing grounds, and complete service offerings position it as St. Petersburg’s premier destination for anglers and boaters seeking waterfront services with hometown professionalism.
Marina Overview & Location
- Address: 6701 Sunshine Skyway Lane South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711 (also listed as 6701 34th Street South)
- Coordinates: N 27° 42′ 26.93″ / W 82° 40′ 49.86″
- Phone: (727) 867-2585
- Website: www.oneillsmarina.com
- Email: Contact via website
- Hours: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily (7 days a week)
- Established: 1954 – Family-owned and operated for over 70 years
- Management: Family-owned; Alan Phillips (owner/operator) and Lisa Shook (General Manager, daughter/partner)
- Type: Full-service marina, boat storage, boat sales, and marine service center
- Location: St. Petersburg, South Pinellas County, near mouth of Tampa Bay
- Highway Access: Just off Interstate 275 – convenient land access
- Adjacent: Maximo Park (public park next door with boat ramp)
- Services: Covered lift storage, wet slips, dry storage, trailer storage, fuel dock, bait & tackle shop, boat ramp (24/7 access), marine mechanic, Tidewater boat dealer
- Yelp Rating: 3.8 out of 5 (6 reviews)
- Facebook Rating: 4.9-5.0 out of 5
O’Neill’s Marina – St. Petersburg
O’Neill’s Marina occupies a strategic St. Petersburg waterfront position near the mouth of Tampa Bay with excellent fishing access, convenient I-275 proximity, and adjacent to Maximo Park public facilities.
Table of Contents
70+ Years of Family Ownership
Historic Fish Camp to Modern Marina
Family History Since 1954
O’Neill’s Marina has a rich 70+ year history:
- Founded 1954 – By Fred O’Neill (posthumously); sons Grant and Howard O’Neill opened the doors
- Original vision: Carved from Brazilian pepper tree-infested tidal pool to serve boaters and fishermen needing a convenient South Pinellas County embarkation point
- 1970s challenge: At risk of condemnation by Florida DOT for I-275 exit ramp
- Ten-year negotiation: Successfully negotiated with City of St. Petersburg and State of Florida to relocate exit ramp, saving Maximo Park and O’Neill’s Marina
- 1980s transformation: Turned old run-down boat basin into thriving modern marina
- Third generation: Alan Phillips (Howard O’Neill’s stepson) took over, personally driving pilings, pouring concrete, and hammering nails
- Current management: Alan Phillips and daughter Lisa Shook (General Manager) continue family business
- Noted landmark: Recognized St. Petersburg waterfront institution
Boat Storage Options
Comprehensive Storage Solutions
O’Neill’s Marina offers multiple professional storage options:
Storage Types
- Covered lift storage – Premium weather protection with individual lifts
- Wet slips – Traditional waterfront docking
- Dry storage – High & dry boat storage racks
- Trailer storage – Secure trailer parking
- 24/7 access – Around-the-clock boat access
- Parking within 20 feet – Convenient proximity to your boat
- No diesel soot – Cleaner than traditional high & dry stacks
- No dripping from above – Individual lift advantages
Customer Testimonial – Covered Lift Storage
“I have a 34 center console and have been a covered lift customer going on two years. I love the experience. Lisa, the general manager, and other personnel have been true professionals. Great service department, fuel prices are good and bathrooms always clean. The 24/7 access and being able to park within 20 feet of the boat is awesome versus a high/dry with a 10 minute walk, diesel soot covering my boat and everything under the sun dripping from the boat above. I would highly recommend Oneill’s.” – Gordon M., Tampa
Full-Service Fuel Dock
Competitive Fuel Pricing
O’Neill’s Marina provides complete fueling services:
Fuel Services
- Gasoline – Marine-grade fuel
- Diesel – Professional quality
- Competitive pricing – “Fuel prices are good” per customer reviews
- Easy access – Convenient fuel dock
- Professional attendants – Helpful service
- Quick service – Efficient fueling operations
Bait & Tackle Shop
Complete Fishing Supply Center
O’Neill’s Marina’s bait and tackle shop is renowned among local anglers:
Bait Shop Features
- Live shrimp – Fresh bait daily
- Weekday special: 5 dozen shrimp for $10 – “GREAT deal!”
- Nice assortment – Small, regular, big, and quite large shrimp; not sorted by size
- Frozen bait – Additional options
- Tackle selection – Complete fishing gear
- Ice – Available for coolers
- Food and snacks – Convenience items
- Marine supplies – Essential equipment
- Friendly staff – Helpful, courteous service
Customer Praise for Bait
“I came here on my way to the Skyway fishing pier due to a recommendation I read in an online fishing forum. They mentioned the weekday special of 5 dozen shrimp for $10. This is absolutely true and a GREAT deal! These shrimp are not small, miserable, and pitiful looking either… The guys here are really friendly.” – Josh W., Rancho Cucamonga, CA (4 stars)
Boat Ramp with 24/7 Access
Convenient Launch Facility
Boat Ramp Features
- Boat ramp – On-site launching facility
- 24/7 access – Around-the-clock availability
- Convenient location – Easy I-275 access
- Adjacent to Maximo Park – Public park ramp also available next door
Important Note: Some customer reviews mention the ramp being “washed out” and “not safe” in past years. Condition may have improved; contact marina for current ramp status.
Marine Mechanic Services
Authorized Dealer & Service Center
O’Neill’s Marina provides comprehensive marine service and repair:
Service Capabilities
- Authorized Mercury dealer – Factory warranty work
- Authorized Yamaha dealer – Factory warranty work
- Authorized Volvo dealer – Factory warranty work
- All warranty work – Can perform any factory-authorized service
- Professional mechanics – Experienced marine technicians
- Service department – “Great service department” per customer reviews
- Fast service – Quick turnaround mentioned in reviews
Tidewater Boat Sales
New & Used Boat Dealer
O’Neill’s Marina is the exclusive Tidewater dealer for Pinellas County:
Boat Sales
- Tidewater ONLY Pinellas County dealer – Exclusive regional dealer
- New boats – Latest Tidewater models in stock
- Used boats – Pre-owned inventory
- 2025 Tidewater models – Current year available for immediate delivery
- Tidewater 2700 Carolina Bay – Example model in stock
- Sales team – Professional boat sales staff
- Financing available – Contact for details
Bathrooms & Facilities
Clean, Well-Maintained Amenities
- Bathrooms – On-site restroom facilities
- Always clean – “Bathrooms always clean” per customer reviews
- Convenient access – Available to marina guests
Strategic St. Petersburg Location
Near Mouth of Tampa Bay
Water Navigation
- Tampa Bay – Near mouth of bay; excellent fishing access
- Gulf of Mexico – Approximately 30 minutes to open water
- Sunshine Skyway Bridge – Iconic landmark nearby
- Intracoastal Waterway – Connected coastal system
- Protected waters – Safe navigation
- Well-marked channels – Professional USCG navigation aids
- Excellent fishing grounds – Tampa Bay and near-shore Gulf
- Skyway Fishing Pier – World-famous fishing pier nearby
Land Access
- Just off Interstate 275 – Easy highway access; convenient for travelers
- South Pinellas County – Strategic location
- Adjacent to Maximo Park – Public park next door
- Convenient embarkation point – South county boating access
- Close to Skyway Pier – Easy drive to fishing pier
Fishing Focus & Community
Angler’s Paradise
O’Neill’s Marina caters specifically to the fishing community:
Fishing Advantages
- Fishing-focused operations – Angler-oriented services
- Bait and tackle shop – Complete supplies
- Ice service – Cooler provisioning
- Convenient Skyway Pier access – Drive or boat to famous pier
- Fort DeSoto proximity – Easy access to fishing destinations
- Tampa Bay fishing – Inshore species (snook, redfish, trout, tarpon)
- Gulf fishing – Offshore opportunities (grouper, snapper, kingfish)
- Local fishing knowledge – Staff expertise and advice
- Charter connections – Professional fishing guides
Customer Reviews & Reputation
Mixed Reviews with Strong Positives
O’Neill’s Marina has a range of customer feedback:
Positive Reviews
- 5-star from Ted R.: “Great marina fast service nice bait shop with food and snacks and tackle everything you need ice dry storage trailer storage parking and access. The maintenance man was quick to help!”
- 5-star from Gordon M.: “I have a 34 center console and have been a covered lift customer going on two years. I love the experience. Lisa, the general manager, and other personnel have been true professionals. Great service department, fuel prices are good and bathrooms always clean.”
- 5-star from Josh W.: “So for my 300th review, I wanted to write on something I love; fishing! Actually, I’m talking about the bait… 5 dozen shrimp for $10… This is absolutely true and a GREAT deal!… The guys here are really friendly.”
- 5-star from Eva P.: “Headed out fishing- got my bait here, gas and everything I need. Even have bathrooms.”
Areas for Improvement
Some past reviews mention:
- Confusing parking layout and lack of clear signage
- Boat ramp condition concerns (washed out; may have improved)
- Customer service variability
- Billing disputes over storage fees
Overall: Strong family-owned operation with loyal customers praising covered lift storage, bait shop value, fuel prices, and professional staff. Some past operational issues noted.
Find Professional Boat Services
Need Services at O’Neill’s Marina?
YachtService.VIP connects you with certified professionals serving O’Neill’s Marina and the St. Petersburg area. O’Neill’s Marina also offers comprehensive on-site marine mechanic services as an authorized Mercury, Yamaha, and Volvo dealer.
Common Services Available
- Boat maintenance – Professional routine and emergency service
- Engine specialists – Mercury, Yamaha, Volvo authorized warranty work
- Fishing boat prep – Pre-trip service and rigging
- Detailing – Professional cleaning and polishing
- Electronics – Modern navigation and fishing electronics installation
- Mechanical systems – All boat systems diagnosis and repair
- Tidewater boat sales – New and used Tidewater boats (exclusive Pinellas County dealer)
- Boat storage – Covered lifts, wet slips, dry storage, trailer storage
- Provisioning – Bait shop with live shrimp, ice, tackle, supplies
- Fishing gear service – Equipment maintenance and rigging
Marina Features & Specifications
| Category | Details |
| Established | 1954 – Family-owned and operated for over 70 years; 3rd generation management |
| Storage Options | Covered lift storage; Wet slips; Dry storage; Trailer storage; 24/7 access; Parking within 20 feet |
| Fuel Dock | Gasoline and diesel; Competitive pricing; Easy access; Professional service |
| Bait & Tackle Shop | Live shrimp (weekday special: 5 dozen for $10); Frozen bait; Complete tackle; Ice; Food & snacks; Marine supplies |
| Boat Ramp | On-site boat ramp; 24/7 access; Adjacent to Maximo Park public ramp |
| Marine Service | Authorized Mercury, Yamaha, Volvo dealer; All warranty work; Professional mechanics; Fast service |
| Boat Sales | Tidewater ONLY Pinellas County dealer; New and used boats; 2025 models in stock; Professional sales team |
| Facilities | Clean bathrooms; Well-maintained grounds; Ship store |
| Location | 6701 Sunshine Skyway Ln S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711; N 27° 42′ 26.93″ / W 82° 40′ 49.86″ |
| Hours | 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily, 7 days a week |
| Management | Alan Phillips (owner); Lisa Shook (General Manager, daughter/partner); Family-owned since 1954 |
| Highway Access | Just off Interstate 275; Convenient South Pinellas County location |
| Water Access | Near mouth of Tampa Bay; 30 min to Gulf; Skyway Pier nearby; Excellent fishing grounds |
| Adjacent | Maximo Park (public park with boat ramp next door) |
| Ratings | Yelp: 3.8/5 (6 reviews); Facebook: 4.9-5.0/5; Loyal covered lift customers |
Why Choose O’Neill’s Marina?
St. Petersburg’s Family-Owned Full-Service Marina Since 1954
- Family-Owned Since 1954: Over 70 years of operation; 3rd generation management with Alan Phillips and Lisa Shook
- Covered Lift Storage: Premium weather protection; 24/7 access; parking within 20 feet; no diesel soot or dripping
- Multiple Storage Options: Covered lifts, wet slips, dry storage, trailer storage to suit all needs
- Competitive Fuel Prices: Gasoline and diesel with “good fuel prices” per customer reviews
- Famous Bait Shop: Weekday special 5 dozen shrimp for $10 – “GREAT deal!”; complete tackle and ice
- Marine Service Center: Authorized Mercury, Yamaha, Volvo dealer; all warranty work; professional mechanics
- Tidewater Dealer: ONLY Pinellas County Tidewater dealer; new and used boat sales; 2025 models in stock
- 24/7 Boat Ramp Access: On-site launching; convenient for fishing trips any time
- Clean Facilities: “Bathrooms always clean”; well-maintained grounds
- Professional Staff: Lisa and team praised for professionalism; friendly bait shop staff
- Strategic Location: Just off I-275; near mouth of Tampa Bay; excellent fishing access; Skyway Pier nearby
- Fishing Focus: Angler-oriented services; local fishing knowledge; convenient to Tampa Bay and Gulf grounds
- Historic Landmark: Noted St. Petersburg waterfront institution; saved from condemnation in 1970s
Weather & Boating Conditions
- Year-Round Boating: Excellent Tampa Bay climate 12 months; open 5 AM-7 PM daily
- Water Temperature: 72-86°F
- Air Temperature: 65-92°F
- Best Months: October – May (drier, cooler season; prime fishing)
- Hurricane Season: June 1 – November 30 (covered lift storage provides protection)
- Fishing Season: Year-round Tampa Bay fishing; offshore fishing spring through fall
- Water Conditions: Protected Tampa Bay with excellent fishing grounds; 30 minutes to Gulf
Frequently Asked Questions
Is O’Neill’s Marina near the Skyway Fishing Pier?
Yes, O’Neill’s Marina is conveniently located near the iconic Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier, making it an ideal base for anglers heading to the famous pier or fishing Tampa Bay and Gulf waters.
What makes the bait shop special?
The weekday special of 5 dozen live shrimp for $10 is a “GREAT deal” with nice assortment of sizes. The friendly staff and convenient location on the way to Skyway or Fort DeSoto make it a popular stop for anglers.
What kind of boat storage is available?
Covered lift storage (premium option with 24/7 access and parking within 20 feet), wet slips, dry storage racks, and trailer storage. Covered lifts are praised for avoiding diesel soot and dripping from boats above.
Can O’Neill’s Marina service my boat motor?
Yes, O’Neill’s is an authorized Mercury, Yamaha, and Volvo dealer that can perform any and all warranty work. Customers praise the “great service department” and fast service.
Is O’Neill’s Marina family-owned?
Yes, family-owned and operated since 1954—over 70 years. Founded by Fred O’Neill, continued by sons Grant and Howard, then Alan Phillips (3rd generation), and now Lisa Shook (daughter/partner) as General Manager.
Are there boats for sale at O’Neill’s Marina?
Yes, O’Neill’s is the exclusive Tidewater dealer for Pinellas County, offering new and used Tidewater boats including 2025 models in stock for immediate delivery.
What are the fuel prices like?
Customers consistently report “good fuel prices” and competitive rates for both gasoline and diesel. Contact the marina for current pricing.
How is the customer service?
Reviews are mixed. Loyal customers praise Lisa (General Manager) and staff as “true professionals” with excellent service. The bait shop staff is consistently described as “really friendly.” However, some past reviews note customer service variability and operational issues.
Contact Information
O’Neill’s Marina & Boat Sales
6701 Sunshine Skyway Lane South (also listed as 6701 34th Street South)
St. Petersburg, FL 33711
Phone: (727) 867-2585
Website: www.oneillsmarina.com
Hours: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily, 7 days a week
Coordinates: N 27° 42′ 26.93″ / W 82° 40′ 49.86″
Established: 1954 – Family-owned and operated for over 70 years
Management: Alan Phillips (owner); Lisa Shook (General Manager)
Type: Full-service marina, boat storage, marine service, boat sales
Services: Covered lifts, wet slips, dry storage, trailer storage, fuel dock, bait & tackle, boat ramp, marine mechanic, Tidewater dealer
Authorized Dealer: Mercury, Yamaha, Volvo
Boat Sales: Tidewater (exclusive Pinellas County dealer)
Location: Just off I-275; near mouth of Tampa Bay; adjacent to Maximo Park
Fishing: Excellent access to Tampa Bay and Gulf; near Skyway Pier
Emergency: 911 or Coast Guard Channel 16
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O’Neill’s Marina – St. Petersburg’s Family-Owned Full-Service Marina Since 1954 with Covered Lift Storage & Tidewater Dealer
