Beachfront hotel near Tampa

Question

Looking for a recommendation of a beach front resort hotel near Tampa. I will be flying into Tampa on May 15th for three nights and would like to stay at the beach.

Answer

If you’re flying into Tampa and want a true beachfront resort experience, your best options are along the Gulf Coast barrier islands near Tampa rather than in the city itself. Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Madeira Beach are all within a 30–45 minute drive from Tampa International Airport and offer a variety of beachfront hotels and resorts.

Recommended Beachfront Resorts Near Tampa

Opal Sands Resort – Clearwater Beach: Modern beachfront resort with direct beach access, spacious rooms with balconies, multiple dining options, and a full-service spa. Great for a relaxing 3-night stay with scenic Gulf views.
Sandpearl Resort – Clearwater Beach: Luxury resort with a private beach, pools, and fine dining. Offers easy access to Clearwater Beach attractions and water activities.
Postcard Inn on the Beach – St. Pete Beach: Colorful, casual resort with direct beach access. Family-friendly and a good mix of budget and comfort for a short stay.
TradeWinds Island Grand Resort – St. Pete Beach: Larger resort with multiple pools, water activities, beachfront dining, and family-friendly amenities. Ideal if you want both beach relaxation and on-site entertainment.
Bilmar Beach Resort – Treasure Island: Classic beachfront resort with easy access to white-sand beaches, pools, and casual dining. A quieter option compared to Clearwater and St. Pete Beach.

Tips for Booking and Staying

Book early, especially in May, as beach resorts near Tampa are popular in spring and early summer.
Consider whether you want a more family-friendly resort (TradeWinds, Postcard Inn) or a luxury/romantic stay (Opal Sands, Sandpearl).
Check for direct beach access—some hotels are beachfront but may have roads or public access paths between the hotel and sand.
Reserve any dining or spa experiences in advance, as these can book quickly at popular resorts.

For convenience, Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach are roughly 25–40 minutes from Tampa International Airport, making them an easy drive for a 3-night stay. Both areas offer plenty of beachfront hotels, restaurants, and activities without needing to travel far from your resort.

Beachfront hotel near Tampa

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