Trip planning with kids

Question

We are planning a trip in March with our four kids. Ages 2,4,6,9. We are coming for Yankees and Phillies spring training. Looking for the following feedback:

- current conditions - are things open after hurricane?

- nice hotel suitable for a large family with small kids, a fun pool would be a huge plus

- restaurant or things to do recommendations

Thanks all for taking the time!!!!

Answer

Great question! Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan your March trip to Clearwater with your four kids (ages 2, 4, 6, 9), especially around spring training.

Current Conditions / Hurricane Impact

Good news: Clearwater is largely open and recovered following recent hurricanes. According to the City of Clearwater’s storm-recovery updates, the white-sand beaches are reopened and lifeguards are back on duty. The city also notes that many local hotels, restaurants, and businesses on or near Clearwater Beach have reopened. While recovery is still ongoing in some areas, the core tourist infrastructure should be in good shape for a family trip.

Where to Stay — Family-Friendly Hotels / Resorts

With four kids, you’ll want a hotel that’s spacious, safe, and has a fun pool or beach access. Here are some top family-friendly options in Clearwater Beach:

Sandpearl Resort — This upscale beachfront resort is ideal for families. It has a large lagoon-style pool with shallow wading areas for kids, connecting rooms or suites, and no extra fee for children (depending on room type).
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa — Just across the street from the beach, it offers a kids’ pool, babysitting services, and suites with kitchenettes so you can manage meals easily.
Sheraton Sand Key Resort — Located on Sand Key, this resort has beachside pool access, a separate kids’ pool, playground, and several on-site restaurants.
Palm Pavilion Inn — A more modest, budget-friendly option right on or very close to the beach, with a heated pool, family-style rooms, and easy beach access.

Kid-Friendly Activities & Things to Do

There are plenty of family-friendly things to do in Clearwater that will entertain your kids between baseball games:

Pier 60 / Sunsets at Pier 60: This is a must. The pier has a large playground, and each evening (especially around sunset) there’s a lively “Sunsets at Pier 60” festival with street performers, musicians, and vendors.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Kids will love seeing rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life.
Dolphin Cruise: There are family-friendly boat tours that depart from Clearwater Marina — a fun way to explore the water and maybe see dolphins.
Moccasin Lake Nature Park: This 54-acre nature preserve has walking trails, a boardwalk, bird-of-prey sanctuary, a turtle pond, and a playground — great for a quieter, nature-focused outing.
Cliff Stephens Park: If you want to stretch your legs, this park offers trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and even frisbee golf.

Restaurants & Dining with Kids

Here are some family-friendly restaurants on or near Clearwater Beach that should work well for a group with young kids:

Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill: A beach-front favorite with a casual vibe, great seafood, and live music at times — perfect for a relaxed dinner with the family.
Frenchy’s Saltwater Café: Offers indoor/outdoor seating, a kid-friendly menu, and highchairs.
Clear Sky Beachside Café: A very family-oriented spot with a varied menu (seafood, breakfast items, sandwiches) and great beach-vibe atmosphere.
Crabby’s Dockside: Elevated waterfront restaurant with good kid-friendly dishes and plenty of space — especially nice if you want to enjoy views and a casual meal.

Bonus Tips for Your Trip

Since you’re traveling with young kids, try to time beach or aquarium visits in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded.
Bring or rent a stroller for walking along Pier 60 or the beach walk — very helpful for the younger ones.
Make reservations (or at least plan for early dinner) — some beach restaurants can be busy, especially when games and spring training crowds overlap.
Check with your hotel about childcare or kids’ programs — hotels like Sandpearl and Hyatt often offer services or babysitting for an extra fee.

Overall, Clearwater should be a wonderful spot for your family’s spring-training trip. The beach is back, many hotels are open, and there are lots of kid-friendly things to do. With the right hotel and a few planned activities, you can balance downtime with fun adventures for the kids.