Exploring Tampa area but flying into PIE

Question

We are making a fast weekend trip to explore (due to a potential job offer). Our flight options were coming into PIE but we expect to want to explore burbs outside of Tampa since we would be moving with small kids.

Looking for a hotel option and honestly don't know if it's better to be close to PIE since we fly in after midnight on a Thurs and fly our evening on Sunday. Just want to make the best use of our short time and appreciate any help!

Answer

For a fast weekend trip to the Tampa area with a flight into St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE), your hotel choice should balance convenience for late-night arrivals and proximity to the areas you want to explore with your family. Since you’ll arrive after midnight on Thursday and leave Sunday evening, staying near PIE might make your first night easier, but you’ll likely want to be closer to Tampa or the suburbs to explore with small kids.

Hotel Location Considerations

Near PIE (St. Pete/Clearwater area) — Convenient for late-night arrivals and early departures. Easy access to Clearwater Beach, local restaurants, and a quieter suburban feel. Suitable if you want minimal travel stress after your flight.
Tampa suburbs (Westshore, Carrollwood, South Tampa) — Better for exploring Tampa’s neighborhoods, parks, and kid-friendly attractions. Short drive to downtown Tampa, ZooTampa, Glazer Children’s Museum, and family-friendly restaurants.
Midway compromise (Pinellas Park or Dunedin) — Central enough to reach both Tampa and the beaches. Offers access to local parks, casual dining, and a shorter drive to Tampa suburbs while still being reasonable for PIE arrival and departure.

Hotel Options

Near PIE / Clearwater
- Hampton Inn & Suites Clearwater / Central
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater-Central
- Residence Inn by Marriott Clearwater
Tampa Suburbs
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa USF / Busch Gardens Area — Family-friendly with suites and breakfast included
- Hyatt Place Tampa / Westshore — Easy access to shopping, restaurants, and Tampa International Airport
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Tampa – Westshore / Airport — Good for families with small kids; kitchen facilities
Midway / Pinellas Park / Dunedin
- Courtyard by Marriott Clearwater Beach
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Dunedin
- Fairfield Inn & Suites St. Petersburg Clearwater Airport

Tips for a Short Family Weekend

Consider your first night’s arrival; PIE hotels minimize hassle after midnight flights.
Plan kid-friendly activities close to where you stay; for example, Clearwater Marine Aquarium or ZooTampa depending on your base.
Rent a car — public transport options are limited, and having a car gives you flexibility to explore both beaches and Tampa suburbs quickly.
Use early morning and late afternoon for outdoor activities to avoid peak traffic times.

Overall, if convenience after arrival is your priority, stay near PIE for the first night and then consider moving closer to Tampa for the remainder of the weekend, especially if you want to get a feel for the suburbs where you may move. Otherwise, selecting a midway location offers a balance between beach access and Tampa exploration without changing hotels.