Start your pre-vacation relaxation by not working too hard on finding beachside accommodations. We’ve already picked the best hotels in and around Tampa for you. While several of these hotels aren’t in Tampa, they are close by, either within close proximity to the beach, or with direct beach access. No matter where you stay, these hotels have everything you need for the perfect beach vacation.
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| Hotel | Price | Direct Beach Access | Miles from Tampa Airport |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Don Cesar | $$$ | Yes | 28 |
| Sheraton Sand Key Resort | $$$ | Yes | 23 |
| The Inn at Little Harbor | $$ | Yes | 40 |
| Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa | $$$$ | Yes | 21 |
| Sandpearl Resort | $$$$ | Yes | 21 |
| Winter the Dolphin’s Beach Club, Ascend Hotel Collection | $$$ | Yes | 22 |
| Postcard Inn on the Beach | $$$ | Yes | 30 |
| TradeWinds Island Grand Resort | $$$$ | Yes | 30 |
| Shephard’s Beach Resort | $$ | Yes | 22 |
| Thunderbird Beach Resort | $$$ | Yes | 27 |
| Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa | $$$$ | Yes | 21 |
| Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach | $$$ | Yes | 21 |
| Best Western Plus Yacht Harbor Inn | $$ | Yes | 22 |
| Bellwether Beach Resort | $$$ | Yes | 30 |
| Treasure Bay Resort and Marina | $ | No | 27 |
| Edge Hotel Clearwater | $$ | No | 22 |
| Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Bay | $$$ | No | 23 |
| Hotel Zamora | $$ | No | 29 |
| Sailport Waterfront Resort | $$ | Beach area, no water access | 5 |
The Don Cesar
You’ll be treated like royalty at this majestic pink palace on the beach. Built in 1928, The Don Cesar is undeniably unique among Tampa beachfront hotels. Its glamour has brought in guests like F. Scott Fitzgerald and earned it roles on the silver screen in films like Once Upon a Time in America, starring Robert De Niro, and Forever Mine.
Rent a private cabana at the beach and get your drinks delivered directly there, or immerse yourself deep in the ocean at the AAA four-diamond Maritana Grille, which is decorated by large aquariums. With historical charm and modern luxuries, this is the place for those who like their beach hotels with a little personality.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, pools, private beach, Jacuzzis, fitness center, in-house bars, in-house restaurants, poolside bar, private cabanas, pool concierge, full-service spa, concierge services, complimentary cruiser bike, water sports rental, game room, kids day camp, special pet services, babysitting services, safe-deposit box, business center, retail and gift shop, and room service.
Sheraton Sand Key Resort
This is the kind of resort you won’t ever need to leave if you don’t want to. Spend your vacation lounging on the beachfront pool deck while sipping signature cocktails from the Turtle Bar, or get some salt water in your hair at Clearwater Beach. If you want to get active, there’s not only a fitness center, but also tennis and beach tennis courts. Relax by getting a massage at the resort spa or by going shopping at the resort’s stores.
Hungry and looking for variety? The Sheraton Sand Key Resort offers numerous fine dining options that can provide a different taste for every meal.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, beachfront pool, beach access, fitness center, in-house bar, in-house restaurants, spa, shops, room service, and business center.
The Inn at Little Harbor
Very popular with those looking for Tampa resorts, this hotel offers incredible amenities at reasonable prices. Escape the crowds at the private beach, bask in the sun at one of the three pools, or relax at the Jacuzzis.
Beach bums will appreciate eating and drinking poolside, and spending evenings with live music and beach cocktails. Thrill seekers can enjoy the basketball, beach volleyball, and tennis courts. Go fishing at the resort’s pier, or get into watersports like kayaking and jet skiing. If nothing else, attack the Sunset Grill’s chocolate fountain.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, three waterfront pools, two Jacuzzis, private beach, two fitness centers, in-house bar, in-house restaurants, spa, concierge services, airport shuttle, bike rental, basketball court, beach volleyball court, five tennis courts, safe-deposit box, and business center.
Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Enjoy a private strip of Clearwater Beach at Hilton Clearwater, as you get cocktails from the Tiki Bar situated right on the sand. Delight in fresh seafood and local cuisine without leaving the beach view for a single second, and pamper yourself at the full-service spa.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, pool, private beach, fitness center, in-house bars, in-house restaurants, spa, concierge services, bike rental, jet-skiing rental, water sports rental, paddle tennis table, playground, safe-deposit box, business center, shoe shine stand, gift shop, and room service.
Sandpearl Resort
Luxury and comfort are the signature qualities of Sandpearl Resort. Spend your time at a cabana at the beach, at the zero-entry pool, or enjoying fine dining at Carreta on the Gulf, Clearwater Beach’s only 4-Diamond restaurant.
For more immersive experiences, join one of the resort’s enrichment programs, which include food and wine tastings, dolphin encounters, and tours of the resort’s art collection. At night, hear the sound of the waves crashing on the shore as you keep warm by the beachside fire pits.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, zero-entry pool, beach access, fitness center, in-house bars, beachside fire pits, in-house restaurants, poolside bar, private cabanas, full-service spa, concierge services, water sports rental, private boat slips, kids camp, in-room safe, shoe shine services, turn down services, 24-hour in-room dining, room service, and daily newspaper.
Winter the Dolphin’s Beach Club, Ascend Hotel Collection
If you’re thinking about skipping the beach resort because of the prohibitive prices, don’t overlook Winter the Dolphin’s Beach Club. This Ascend Hotel is located on the shores of Clearwater Beach. For a budget-friendly price, you can enjoy all the amenities of the best Tampa beach hotels, like a beachfront pool, a beach bar, and private balconies.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, beachfront pool, beach access, sunroom, in-house bars, in-house IHOP, business center, balcony or patio in every room, in-room safe, and a flat-screen TV.
Postcard Inn on the Beach
The cookie-cutter beach resort life isn’t for you? Go straight to Postcard Inn. This vintage boutique boasts uniqueness in experience and design. The lobby is decorated by modern bookshelves filled with books and board games for the guests, surfboards make part of the decor, and every single room is different from the others. With the oldest bar on St. Pete Beach, it’s also the place for a great party.
Amenities: Outdoor pool, beach access, fire pit, in-house bar, in-house restaurant, business center, bicycles, two gyms, sports facilities, and live entertainment on weekends.
TradeWinds Island Grand Resort
A sizeable 20-acre resort that has everything you need and then some, TradeWinds makes it a point to ensure guests have more than enough of everything. From five pools to 11 restaurants to its very own private river, this resort does nothing small. All in all, it’s one of the Tampa beach hotels that offers guests the most experiences.
Amenities: Five heated pools, 11 restaurants, paddleboard rental, beach volleyball net, two tennis courts, two hot tubs, fitness center, full-service spa, kids’ club, 24-hour babysitting services, and free Wi-Fi.
Shephard’s Beach Resort
If you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, this resort is not your scene. On the other hand, if what you want is to stay up until the sun comes out and then recharge at the beach, this is where you want to go. A hip young crowd keeps the Shephard’s Beach Resort vibrant, fueling the concerts held at the Tiki Bar, and flocking to the in-house nightclub, Wave, every night.
Amenities: Pool deck, beach access, beach bar, two-story club, in-house restaurant, water sports gear rental for jet skiing and kayak, parasailing, scooter, bicycle, mini coupe rental, boat tour, and free Wi-Fi.
Thunderbird Beach Resort
A family-owned resort, the Thunderbird is committed to keeping alive the charm of its origins. Though the hotel offers all the modern amenities you could want, it does so without compromising its vintage ambiance that takes you straight into the 1950s beach party scene. Located in Treasure Island, the Thunderbird is a landmark that has amassed quite a following of loyal vacationers who come back year after year.
Amenities: Oversized pool, quiet pool, hot tub, complimentary WiFi, Tiki beach bar, live music, athletic club, in-house restaurant, beach access.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Spacious rooms and a spa make the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach the perfect beach hotel option in the Tampa area. When you are laying on the beach, you can treat yourself to a relaxing treatment at the spa, or take a complimentary yoga class. With plenty to do for kids including a kids club and kids pool, it’s a great option for families.
Amenities: Pool, children’s pool, jacuzzi, kids club, poolside drink service, spa, Balconies, fitness center, kids activities, beach access, in-house restaurant.
Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
Whether it’s laying on the sand on the beach, lazing by the pool, or holding an event, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach has you covered. The newest AAA 4 Diamond hotel on the gulf shore offers gorgeous a beachfront, a pool bar, and spectacular coastal views. Their Deluxe Intracoastal room features floor to ceiling waterfront views with a balcony for relaxing on. When taking a break from being poolside or at the beach, you can relax with a treatment at the spa.
Amenities: Pool, spa, yoga, live music, poolside drink service, balconies, crafts, beach chairs, umbrellas, in-house restaurant.
Best Western Plus Yacht Harbor Inn
While technically not a beach hotel, the Best Western Plus Yacht Harbor Inn offers a unique stay as a boutique waterfront resort with access to the Gulf of Mexico. All rooms have a patio or balcony with views of St. Joseph’s Sound.
Amenities: Cocktail lounge, heated outdoor pool, hot tub, complimentary full breakfast, fitness equipment, two on-site restaurants.
Bellwether Beach Resort
The spinning rooftop restaurant may be what intices you to stay at Bellweather Beach Resort, but there is plenty more the resort offers. Enjoy lunch or dinner on the beach in your complimentary cabana, connect your body and mind with morning yoga, and enjoy live music daily. You’ll enjoy stunning water views from your spacious room, and can choose from classic rooms, suites and even a penthouse.
Amenities: On-site restaurant, beach chairs, cabanas, yoga, live entertainment
Treasure Bay Resort and Marina
Explore the bay during your stay at Treasure Bay Resort and Marina. From water sports, fishing, a pool and a jacuzzi, adventure awaits! With over 80 rooms with private balconies and terraces, this “authentic florida” resort provides whatever you need for your beach stay.
Amenities: Pool, jacuzzi, fitness center, bar
Edge Hotel Clearwater
Voted Clearwater Beach’s #1 hotel by the Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce, Edge Hotel promises an unforgettable stay. Soak in the sunset from your private balcony, relax at one of two pools, or mosey over to the beach, which is a short walk away.
Amenities: Two pools, fitness center, restaurant, continental breakfast, water rentals available, laundry services.
Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Bay
Did someone say pool with waterfall? Find your ultimate oasis at Clearwater Beach Marriot Suites on Sand Bay, whether enjoying the waterfall, relaxing in the whirlpool, or heading to the beach just steps away. Explore Clearwater Bay or the Gulf of Mexico via paddleboard or kayaking, or book a treatment at the spa.
Amenities: Full breakfast included, on-site restaurant, fitness center, spa, hot tub, watercraft rentals, activities for kids, outdoor pool.
Hotel Zamora
While Hotel Zamora has plenty that makes it an amazing hotel, its the 360 Rooftop Lounge that puts it over the top. You can enjoy the stunning views the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway as you sip a cocktail while taking in the sunset from the rooftop. The hotel is dog friendly, so your furry friend won’t have to stay behind!
Amenities: Pool, poolside bar, five slip marina, rooftop bar, dog friendly, fitness center, watersport rentals, on-site restaurant.
Sailport Waterfront Resort
Stay directly on the bay at Sailport Waterfront Resort. While there is no access to the water, the resort has it’s own private beach on the water, where you can relax, or play beach volleyball and other beach games. Sailport Waterfront is the only all-suite hotel in Tampa. Each suite features full kitchens, separate bedrooms, and balconies, making it the ideal hotel in Tampa for families or extended stays.
Amenities: Beach/recreation, pool, fishing pier, beach volleyball, firepit.
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