Best Tampa Bay Beachfront Hotels

Two outdoor pools, bike trails and nature walks nearby, complimentary airport shuttle, Balmain bath products

With well-appointed accommodations, stellar views, beautiful grounds, and great dining outlets, the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay has just about everything you could want from a waterfront hotel in the area. To compensate for not having direct beach access, there are two outdoor pools and a 35-acre nature preserve that the property is set on to instantly soothe the soul. To soak it all in, go bird watching on the boardwalk, keep your eyes peeled for manatees by the boat dock, and enjoy a bike ride or stroll on the nine and a half mile bayside trail. While you’re here, don’t miss out on the award-winning Italian cuisine at Armani’s or fresh, local seafood at Oystercatchers.

Two heated outdoor pools, complimentary airport shuttle, private patio or balconies with every accommodation, cabanas available for rent, one-hour bicycle rental included in resort fee

For those looking to stretch their dollar, The Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas offers a casual, resort-style property on the shores of Tampa Bay. While it may not have all the bells and whistles, the hotel still offers guests two heated outdoor pools, private cabanas for rent, and a waterfront grill fit for a quick bite. Plus, all of their spacious accommodations have a private patio or balcony so that you can enjoy the fresh air or vibrant sunset from the comfort of your own room.

Two heated pools, friendly service, full kitchens in most accommodations

Having been passed down from generation to generation for more than 60 years, there’s no better place to feel like family than at the Bon-Aire Resort. With its endearing ’50s-style character, amiable staff, moderate pricing, and direct access to the beach, you’ll want to return time and time again with the kids. The property also offers two heated pools, four shuffleboard courts, and a volleyball net to keep your little ones busy.

When booking here keep in mind that rooms do start on the smaller side, so if you’re bringing children, consider opting for one of the apartments where you’ll have 530 square feet of space, a full kitchen, and the option to use the living room as an additional sleeping area.

Two outdoor heated pools, 11,000-square-foot spa, complimentary bicycle use, poolside bar, private beach

Arguably the most iconic resort in Tampa Bay, the Don CeSar’s palatial pink facade has made its mark on the white sands of St. Pete Beach since 1928. And with a multi-million-dollar, top-down renovation that was recently completed at the start of 2021, it maintains its title as the most luxurious property in the area. Guests can now expect updated spaces fit for the discerning vacationer, including brighter rooms accented with soothing blush and blue tones.

While staying at the Don CeSar, guests have access to the resort’s private beach, with up to three beach loungers and an umbrella available for rent per day included in the resort fee. To keep you satiated there are six food and beverage outlets to choose from on the property, ranging from a relaxed poolside bar to a polished restaurant highlighting coastal-inspired cuisine. And for those who are really in search of some rest and relaxation, don’t forget to book an appointment at their award-winning, 11,000-square-foot spa which is complete with whirlpools, aroma-infused steam rooms, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

On-site Starbucks, rooftop pool, waterfront dining with alfresco seating, 32-slip marina

With more than 42,000 square feet of meeting space spread across 19 rooms, its proximity to the airport, and the Tampa Convention Center as its next-door neighbor, the Tampa Marriott Water Street is the most ideal place to conduct business in the city. The property also completed a renovation in late 2019 so public spaces and accommodations have been updated to make a grand impression. And if you’re looking to entertain clients over a meal on the property, Anchor and Brine’s waterfront alfresco dining patio nicely complements its seafood-forward menu while Garrison Tavern offers a fun, casual option featuring spruced-up pub bites and entertainment in the form of Topgolf Swing Suites.

Rooftop bar, outdoor pool, five-slip marina

If you’re searching for a fashionable boutique hotel that can also double as a romantic getaway, look no further than Hotel Zamora. With its Spanish influence and upscale accommodations—some of which include balconies and soaking tubs—the property exudes charisma. It’s all about laidback leisure here, so relax at the pool or whirlpool spa during the day before you end the night with a sunset tipple at the rooftop bar and an exquisite meal at their restaurant, Castile, highlighting Latin and Mediterranean fare.

Private beach, daily live entertainment, on-site nightclub, bar featuring over 100 tequilas

Shephard’s Beach Resort is technically located on Clearwater Beach, but it’s not too far off from the Tampa Bay area and is arguably the best spot for anyone looking to mingle or party all day long without leaving their hotel. With a beach bar that offers daily live entertainment on a concert stage, a bar showcasing more than 100 varieties of tequila, and the on-site Wave nightclub that’s open on the weekends, there’s no shortage of fun times at this property. And if you’re feeling a little drained after your first or second night, consider lazing around by the pool or taking it all in from afar on your room’s balcony.