As Treasure Island continues to rebuild after last year’s devastating hurricanes, both visitors and local businesses are adjusting to the first spring break since the storms.

Many tourists anticipated some changes, but they were still taken aback by how much the area has transformed. Meanwhile, business owners are working to recover, hoping for a boost from out-of-town guests.

Five months after Hurricanes Milton and Helene, many businesses remain closed due to storm damage, a reality that has surprised some spring breakers.

“Crabby’s on the Pass—gone. PCI—gone. It’s just so different this year,” visitor Landis Wilson said to WFLA.

For locals like Jenna Belscher, who spends much of her time surfing, the changes have made it difficult to guide visitors.

“It’s tough recommending places to go because so many restaurants and shops are either permanently closed or still rebuilding,” she said. “A lot of people just don’t know where to eat or hang out.”

Treasure Island suffered significant damage, with storm surges reaching up to 10 feet.

“I avoided the beach for over a month because I didn’t want to see what was lost,” Belscher admitted. “When I finally went, the parking lot was gone, buildings were wiped out, and the streets were flooded with people’s belongings.”

For returning visitors like Wilson, the island feels almost unrecognizable.

“It’s completely changed. There aren’t many tourists here, and it just doesn’t feel the same,” she said.

Rebuilding has been a slow and challenging process.

“As an island, recovery is more complicated,” said Jason Beisel with the City of Treasure Island. “It’s frustrating because we have to follow strict codes and FEMA regulations, which slow everything down.”

To support struggling businesses, city commissioners approved temporary measures allowing restaurants to set up tents and food trucks in their parking lots, hoping to attract spring break crowds.

Evan Bradish, manager of Caddy’s, said these adjustments are essential for staying afloat.

“There was a big push to be open for spring break. Caddy’s is a staple here, and we knew how important it was to serve the community,” he explained to WFLA.

Treasure Island’s beaches are open, and local businesses are eager for support. Those looking for a more familiar spring break experience may find Clearwater Beach and Siesta Key closer to normal.

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