Slow down the pace and soak up sunshine year-round in Tampa Bay. Immerse yourself in the harbor’s laidback vibe while strolling along the waterfront of one of Florida’s brightest cities — Tampa. Under the dazzling blue sky, go for a rush of adrenaline on the heart-pounding roller coasters of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Afterward, speed away on two wheels along Cass Street bike corridor, Tampa Riverwalk Urban Park, and Bayshore Boulevard. Unwind with the family at Glazer Children’s Museum and Lettuce Lake Park, and try not to leave without spending a few hours with diverse marine life at The Florida Aquarium.
Events to look out for:
- Gasparilla Season: Definitely do not miss out on this three-month event from the end of January to March. It involves the country's third-biggest parade and the Gasparilla Bowl. I'm especially excited about the music festivals, as I like to discover new tunes.
What’s new in Tampa Bay?
- The Tampa Bay Times has reported two restaurants that earned their Michelin stars in 2024. During your visit, be sure to stop by the Japanese restaurant Kosen and Ebbe, a contemporary Scandinavian eatery. Both earned one star each.
Leave the daily buzz for quality time in accommodations near the beach on Florida’s west coast. Check out the best beach resorts near Tampa Bay, Florida.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 14, 2024.
Beach life in Tampa Bay
Eager for a visit to Florida’s golden shores? Tampa Bay has plenty to offer you. First off, be sure to time your visit properly. If you want affordable rates, the best time to come is between the months of September and December. But if you don’t mind spending more to enjoy the cooler weather, any time from January to April is optimal. It is, however, recommended to avoid coming between May and August because of the crowds.
Now that you know when to come, pick from the best beaches to visit. Anclote River Park is a sprawling beach perfect for all kinds of activities, including picnics and fishing. Meanwhile, Robert J. Strickland Memorial Park is better for kayaking and boating or enjoying live music.
Beach resorts near Tampa Bay, Florida
1. Dolphin Beach Resort (from USD 169)
Dolphin Beach Resort is a 3-star establishment offering facilities for a carefree holiday on Gulf Boulevard. All of the resort’s 173 rooms are air-conditioned and fitted with premium linen and furniture for comfort.
St. Pete Beach is right outside the resort doors. You can don a trendy swimwear as soon as you arrive and join the flock of beachgoers without delay. You will likely meet kindred spirits on the sand, so invite them to a friendly bout of beach volleyball. At Dolphin Beach Resort, cabanas are available for a surcharge, but there are beach umbrellas you can use for free.
- Property highlights: Other than stunning sea views, this property offers watersports and a private charter catamaran so you can make the most of your trip.
- Nearest beach: This accommodation is right off a white-sand beach.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: The Deluxe Beach Front w/ Patio 2 Queen Beds will allow you to walk straight out of your room and onto the sand.
- Ideal for: Active guests, as the resort has many beach and water activities to enjoy.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "I loved the idea of a drink and food stand they provided on the beach for beach goers. It was so convenient and the staff were amazing! They also provided live music at Flippers, their beach bar." - Angelica Calabrese
Dolphin Beach Resort
Address: 4900 Gulf Blvd
10.04 km (6.3 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
hotel was super clean just outdated and the few updates done where poorly installedRead more reviewsLocation:
i loved the location being right on the beachall in all a great place to staynothing fancy but staff very friendly beach close by pool and bar niceEarn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
2. Bungalow Beach Resort (from USD 282)
Bungalow Beach Resort has a private beach with a pool where guests can sunbathe and swim all day. The resort’s iconic wooden beachside bungalows are on the sand. These cottages have a historical significance, being built in the “Old Florida” style, but they are all furnished as modern apartments. I absolutely love that these accommodations bear a bit of history, and I would be eager to stay in one! Book early to reserve one of the bungalows with an air-conditioning unit. Additional facilities provided in some bungalows are a mini-fridge, a microwave oven, and a deck or patio.
This landmark resort is located on Anna Maria Island, a friendly community that boasts three piers and more than 70 restaurants.
- Property highlights: With rare "Old Florida–style" bungalows, this historical property is nestled right along the sand.
- Nearest beach: Some of the bungalows are set directly on the beach, and the others are not far behind.
- Suggested rooms/units: Hurry to book Mermaid Bungalow #116 Gulf because it's the only of the beach-facing bungalows that has air conditioning.
- Ideal for: Couples, since the romantic bungalows with coastal decor guarantee a fun and rejuvenating getaway for partners.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "The property's beach lounge chairs and umbrella were wonderful and made going to the beach so easy!" - Riley
Bungalow Beach Resort
Address: 2000 Gulf Drive North
36.89 km (23.0 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
bathroom in our unit was a very tight fitHost:
staff friendly and helpfulthe staff was very friendly and informativethe staff went above and beyond to make our stay a pleasurerelaxing walks on the beach beautiful sunsets friendly staffRead more reviewsLocation:
side walks of streets;on dining to pricey for the meals on restaurants bungalow was great
3. Shoreline Island Resort - Exclusively Adult (from USD 176)
Shoreline Island Resort - Exclusively Adult provides 3-star beachfront aparthotel amenities for adult guests of 21 years and older. Although I work with kids, I would also love to have a vacation with other grownups, and this might just be the place for me to go. Outdoorsy types will appreciate the picnic and grill area here. Guests who prefer to spend time indoors after frolicking at Madeira Beach will find the furnishing more than adequate. Each unit features a separate seating area and laundry facilities. You can use the DVD player when you are in the mood to re-watch your favorite family flicks.
Book the Sunset Suite for extra perks to make your family holiday more memorable. This three-bedroom accommodation is available to guests staying for a minimum of seven nights.
- Property highlights: This adult-only beach resort offers tranquil moments on sunbeds directly on the beach.
- Nearest beach: The beach is right outside the resort's gates.
- Suggested rooms/units: The three-bedroom Sunset Suite – Penthouse has a private balcony with views of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Ideal for: Parents who need a break, as only guests above 21 can stay on this peaceful property.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
“The ocean is a really short walk from the pool area on this part of the beach so if you are traveling with older folks it is easy for them to get around.” - Greg Boyles
“The beach was not crowded and there were beach towels provided. We had lounge chairs that faced the beach on the property as well as tables and chairs with umbrellas. We never had to wait for chairs. The view was perfect without even getting sandy. … There is a shower to get the sand off too.” - Leeta Stevens
Shoreline Island Resort - Exclusively Adult
Address: 14200 Gulf Boulevard
284 meters (0.2 ft) from Madeira Beach Access
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the property was cleanit was beautiful and clean with amazing viewssuper clean room with a great view property was amazing right on the beach and close to everythingRead more reviewsHost:
the staff was extremely friendly and invitingthe staff was very friendly and i would stay there againlocation & staff was greatEarn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
4. Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa (from USD 220)
This Hilton resort on Clearwater Beach near Pier 60 offers 4-star recreational amenities, such as an outdoor pool, covered beach decks, and a tiki bar on the sand. This landmark resort sits on 10 ac (4.05 ha) (4.05 ha) of prime Florida real estate.
The beachside and poolside amenities will keep you by the shore most of the time but do make time for spa treatments. The lava shell and hot stone massage will make you want to extend your stay for more wellness therapies. At Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, families may avail of extra amenities such as infant beds, coffee/tea makers, and refrigerators.
- Property highlights: This resort has private cabanas and a tiki bar on its beach and can also organize snorkeling and deep-sea fishing excursions for you.
- Nearest beach: The property is nestled on 10 ac (4.05 ha) of beach, so you won't have to walk very far to enjoy the ocean.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: Enjoy the view from the room with two double beds and a Gulf view.
- Ideal for: Vacationers with mobility issues, as several of the rooms have accessible features.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "The beach is beautiful. They offer so much stuff to do for free or a small charge. They have everything there that you would want or need." - Summer Shultz
Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Address: 400 Mandalay Ave
20.43 km (12.7 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
our partial view room had a nice view of the ocean and the bayRead more reviewsHost:
fyi: hire an adult manager who can train staff to be adults tooeverything else was great very friendly stafffirst person very friendly and helpfulEarn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
5. Sandalwood Beach Resort (from USD 111)
Posted by Sandalwood Beach Resort on Saturday, August 29, 2020
Spend your next holiday in the quiet beach community of North Redington Beach. It is time to enjoy Sandalwood Beach Resort, a 3-star facility with the family. After putting on sunblock, you only have to step out the door to the pool area, which is in the middle and surrounded by the accommodations.
Here, you can take in the beauty of the sunset daily and unwind with your loved ones in the outdoor pool. All 47 rooms have climate-controlled air-conditioning to keep you comfortable under the Florida sun. I know I would be excited to just rest and read in one of these rooms after a day outside.
- Property highlights: Apart from its oceanfront location, the accommodation is close to other attractions and restaurants in the area.
- Nearest beach: The beach is right outside this resort's gates.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: Splurge on one of the premium Gulf-front units to ensure you can enjoy the view even while indoors.
- Ideal for: Sun lovers, as they can soak in vitamin D from the provided beach loungers all day.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Beach is beautiful, the water is clear and you can see the sand. Beach has white sand." - Jeremy Dotson
Sandalwood Beach Resort
Address: 17100 GULF BOULEVARD
3.62 km (2.3 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
it is clean and right on the beachnice size units clean and fairly quiet (11/22)very nice the toom was clean and comfortable right on the beach loved the pool areaHost:
the staff was very courteous and friendlyRead more reviewsLocation:
great location on the watergood location and right on beachthe location view and peacefulness was priceless
6. Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa (from USD 282)
Hyatt Regency Clearwater BeachVacation for the day. Grab a Day Pass from ResortPass to experience all we have to offer without staying the night!
Posted by Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa on Tuesday, August 15, 2023
When it comes to entertainment options, all bets are off at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. This Clearwater Beach establishment is nearby to Pier 60 hotspots.
This eco-certified property provides guests with 4-star facilities. The resort has 286 spacious rooms. The residential-like accommodations have plush bedding as well as a full-sized fridge and microwave oven for basic cooking. You can spend your first hour checking out the view from the balcony with cold drinks or chilling out on the pool deck on the eighth floor. Scuba diving and jet skiing amenities are available for venturesome guests. I enjoy learning new things, so I think trying scuba diving here would be at the top of my list of things to do.
- Property highlights: Catch the sunset from this beachfront property's eight-floor pool deck.
- Nearest beach: The beach is just a few steps from the accommodation.
- Suggested rooms/units: The King Bed Premium Room has 600 square feet (55.74 square meters) and a private balcony.
- Ideal for: All types of travelers, since the property has universally convenient amenities, including a pool and spa.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Beach access was easy and the hotel provided beach towels. I loved the concrete walking path along the beach." - Julie R
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Address: 301 S Gulfview Blvd
19.81 km (12.4 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had a corner suite with view and the entire room was spacious and super cleanthe heated pool was so great because even tho it was raining our kids got to enjoy swimmingHost:
the staff was friendly and helpfulgreat location friendly and helpful staff and numerous amenitiesRead more reviewsLocation:
great location on the white sands beachEarn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
7. Sheraton Sand Key Resort (from USD 246)
Sheraton Sand Key Resort is a tropical oasis with 13 ac (5.26 ha) (5.26 ha) of private beach. Spend your holiday sun-kissed on the private beach and breathe the ocean breeze from the balcony or patio of a private beachfront suite. The best part is that you can dig your toes in pristine white sands as soon as you exit the resort.
This 4-star resort makes it extra luxurious for guests with a pillow menu, outdoor pool, and poolside bar. Meanwhile, families with children can enjoy hanging out under pool umbrellas while the kids go for a swim in the children’s pool.
- Property highlights: This luxurious resort won't disappoint with its sprawling private beach, pool bar, and the absence of resort fees.
- Nearest beach: Just step outside the resort to enjoy 13 ac (5.26 ha) of sand.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: Book the guest room with a king bed and a balcony with a view of the Gulf.
- Ideal for: Active guests, since the property offers beach volleyball and boating.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Perfect location for less crowds! The beach was beautiful. While it does appear to be a long walk to the ocean from the resort, they offer golf cart rides to and from." - Katie Norris
Sheraton Sand Key Resort
Address: 1160 Gulf Blvd
17.71 km (11.1 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
8. Opal Sands Resort (from USD 392)
Posted by Opal Sands Resort on Tuesday, May 30, 2017
This 4-star beachfront resort stands out with upscale accommodations showcasing panoramic Gulf Coast views. At Opal Sands Resort, you’ll find plenty of rooms and suites facing the ocean. The balconies are furnished, and your pets will love the atmosphere out there. Up to two dogs are welcome to spend time here with their fur moms and dads. There is a 100 USD per pet per night fee and a weight limit of 30 lb (13.61 kg) per pet.
The call of the gulf waters might keep you occupied, but make time on your schedule for a manicure or aromatherapy in the full-service spa. The spa will pamper you with Ayurvedic treatments, scrubs, and different types of massages.
In addition, the property’s prime location means that it’s near plenty of attractions in the area, including the aquarium and local museums. As exploring the world is one of my hobbies, I would definitely take the opportunity to see Chihuly Collection and The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum).
- Property highlights: The resort has an infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
- Nearest beach: You can simply step off the resort and onto the sand nearby.
- Suggested rooms/units: Book one of the two-bedroom suites with a kitchenette to ensure your family has all the space and amenities you need.
- Ideal for: Families, as they will enjoy the pool, easy beach access, and spacious accommodations.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Best view and beach access on the island! Stay here! Walking distance to restaurants. The resort offers complimentary bicycles which we had fun riding around." - jennifer blackstock
Opal Sands Resort
Address: 430 South Gulfview Blvd
19.43 km (12.1 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
rooms clean and niceRead more reviewsLocation:
great place to stay overall
9. Gulf Winds Resort by Travel Resort Services (from USD 110)
Reasonable pricing with complimentary amenities.
Free parking, pool, and beach access. Some units come with furnished beach gear and full kitchen necessities.
Conveniently located near the beach and within walking distance of restaurants and bars.
Close proximity to a variety of beach bars and restaurants.
Feel the warm welcome as you enter the lush landscaped courtyards of Gulf Winds Resort by Travel Resort Services. One of the highlights of this establishment is a heated pool for guests. Booking one of the condominium vacation homes comes with one complimentary parking pass. You can book a two-bedroom accommodation with a rooftop deck — the ideal pick for guests who like to take group and landscape photos.
This secluded resort is located off the main road and is adjacent to Saint Pete Beach. Paradise Grille, a beachside joint, is outside the premises but within walking distance from the resort.
- Property highlights: Dip into this property's pool or walk across the street to enjoy the white-sand beach.
- Nearest beach: Upham Beach Park is just a two-minute walk away.
- Beach access: Public
- Suggested rooms/units: The Deluxe Apartment offers a private kitchen so you can save money on food.
- Ideal for: Families with kids, as the on-site pool welcomes guests of all ages.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Really nice quiet area which is typically difficult to find so close to the beach! I literally walked out the back porch, crossed the parking lot and was standing in the sand (sunset side for those curious)." - Reed Ross
Gulf Winds Resort by Travel Resort Services
Address: 6800 Sunset Way
8.19 km (5.1 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
10. Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach (from USD 263)
Unforgettable experiences begin at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach. From sparkling waters to stunning rooms, your visit will be nothing short of magical.
Posted by Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach on Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Choose this AAA 4 Diamond resort and experience a new level of pampering the minute you arrive. Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach is a resort on the beachfront with an outdoor pool where you can bask under the sun. Further on is the white sand beach and the clear waters of the gulf. I can imagine how it would feel to walk along the shore while listening to my favorite music. Even better, Pier 60 and its live performance are just a 10-minute walk away.
Aside from the resort’s waterfront features, guests can take pleasure in the menu of an Asian-fusion restaurant in Clearwater Beach. Ocean Hai is a signature restaurant featuring delectable Asian-fusion dishes cooked with fresh produce and seafood. Meanwhile, Dock’s Pool Bar and Grille has a select mix of poolside snacks and cocktails.
- Property highlights: Thanks to its beachfront location and various packages, this property is the perfect place for a wedding.
- Nearest beach: Clearwater Beach is just across the street.
- Beach access: Public
- Suggested rooms/units: The Deluxe Intracoastal has floor-to-ceiling windows with water views.
- Ideal for: Travelers who need a break, as they will enjoy the on-site spa.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
“There is a rear exit if you want to go to the beach or walk the large sidewalks along the beach.” - Aaron
“The beach is right behind it and the beach chairs were complimentary for hotel guests.” - Christina Short-Anderson
Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
Address: 100 Coronado Drive
20.05 km (12.5 mi) from Madeira Beach Access
Soak up the beach vibe in and around Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay’s beachfront attractions are some of the most fun and varied under the Florida sun. Chill out with your favorite people from sun up to sunset and experience another level of fun while staying in these top-of-the-line beach resorts all the hours in between.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to