Powdery white sand, fiery sunsets, and buzzing nightlife. — Clearwater Beach hotels have it all right on their doorstep. Located along America’s best beach, these beautiful seaside escapes are where everyone is dreaming about right now. Literally. Just last month Clearwater Beach was found one of the US’s most popular travel destinations for fall 2020. Whether that’s down to the balmy year-round water temperatures, diverse marine life, or lively energy of Pier 60 is anyone’s guess. But for those looking to leave the year in higher spirits than when it started, Clearwater Beach is certainly up to the task.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve compiled some of the best Clearwater Beach hotels to stay at. In addition to fabulous ocean views and beachside dining, these memorable waterfront properties stand out for their superb service, perfect pools, and family-friendly facilities. Because we wanted to do this fantastic beach destination proper justice, we’ve also listed out some of the best things to do near each hotel. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or lively evening entertainment, look no further. We’ve got you covered.
1. Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
Right across the road from the sand, the Wyndham has immediate access to the beach as well as all the action of Pier 60. With a large outdoor pool, jacuzzis, and terraced dining, there’s plenty of space to lounge about with a cocktail. Guests will also love the views from its 343 rooms, which look out either the marina or beach. This Florida beach hotel also offers fabulous onsite dining. Look out for Ocean Hai, the only Asian fusion joint in town, for creative sushi and tantalizing local catches.
Best things to do nearby:
- Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise (99 meters) — Set sail on a spirited adventure including a treasure hunt, dolphin spotting, and water gun games
- Pier 60 Clearwater (900 meters) — Famous local recreation area with nightly performances, live music, and vendors
- Pan Filo’s Co. Bar & Grill (1.1 kilometers) — Vibrant, fun-loving taco bar that has great rep for its shrimp tacos
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 242 – USD 543
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: 100 Coronado Drive, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
2. Opal Sands Resort
With its show-stopping design, this luxury hotel is one of the most glamorous Clearwater Beach hotels. It’s coastal-inspired interior, toned with a palate of soothing ocean blues, is an instant stress buster. The same can be said of the two spacious pool decks — one rooftop and one beachside. A handful of dining options means there’s something suitable for every kind of evening, be it a white linen affair at Sea-Guini or memorable bites and well-shaken cocktails at the beachside tiki bar. Visiting locally? Opal Sands offers a 25% good neighbour discount for guests from Florida and Georgia.
Best things to do nearby:
- Sandbar (220 meters) — Waterfront spot for great drinks and fantastic views at sunset.
- Beach House (350 meters) — Laidback hangout serving coffee, ice cream, and gifts. Has outdoor seating.
- The Segway Adventure (500 meters) — A dynamic tour of the beachfront, downtown, and a historic area.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 336 – USD 625
Guest Rating: 9.0
Address: 430 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States
3. Sandpearl Resort
Sandpearl is a real gem among Clearwater Beach hotels. A few years ago, it was named one of the best resorts in Florida by Travel + Leisure magazine. Honestly, we’re not surprised. The hotel’s interior is a superb portrayal of island elegance, with its decorative palms and colonial-inspired furnishings. The exclusivity extends all the way to the water, as Sandpearl boasts a pristine private beach. To get the full royal treatment, check in at the onsite spa, listed as one of North America’s best by Condé Nast.
Best things to do nearby:
- Pier 60 Parasail (500 meters) — Experience Clearwater’s sugar white sands and shimmering turquoise shallows from above
- StarLite Cruises (700 meters) — A sunset tour along Clearwater Beach’s jaw dropping coast, with excellent food and live music
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium (2.1 kilometers) — Fascinating marine center that was the inspiration for 2011 family adventure Dolphin Tale
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 289 – USD 777
Guest Rating: 9.0
Address: 500 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
4. Shephard’s Beach Resort
This pristine Clearwater beach hotel received AAA’s Best of Housekeeping award for 2020 for its excellent response to COVID-19. But you can expect much more than spotless accommodation. Featuring spacious balconies, many of the rooms at Shepherd’s Bush command spectacular views over Clearwater’s sugar-white sands. Guests can stretch out in a poolside cabana with a tropical cocktail from guests-only bar SOAK. Or for something a little zestier, an iced glass of agave-charged fun from Salt tequila bar. Hungry? Ocean Flame puts on a great nightly buffet, featuring beach-oriented fare and Florida crowd favourites.
Best things to do nearby:
- Makin Waves (16 meters) — Jet ski rental popular for its great service and hair-raising rides
- Clearwater Community Sailing Center (1.9 kilometers) — Popular for their great private lessons, set against
- Sand Key Park (3.0 kilometers) — Spacious white sand beach great for families and escaping the crowds
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 240 – USD 285
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 619 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
5. Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
With many of us locked out of the office in 2020, there’s been a major shift toward remote work. But does that really mean you have to hunch over your kitchen table for 8 hours a day? Thankfully, Hyatt has a more than satisfactory alternative for the cabin-fever-afflicted worker. Decamp to this glittering resort for a 7+ night workcation to enjoy a hostful of lockdown-remedying treats. USD 50 food and drink credit per day, 50% off cabanas, and complimentary yoga classes twice a week — to name a few. Best of all, revel in breathtaking sunset views from the 8th floor pool deck, all without using your vacation days.
Best things to do nearby:
- Beach Walk (250 meters) — Sunkissed pedestrian area with beautiful sea views
- Little Toot Dolphin Adventure (450 meters) — Fun-filled dolphin tours with select free beverages
- Marina Cantina (650 meters) — Elegant terraced restaurant on the water
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 269 – USD 857
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 301 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
6. Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key
Overlooking Clearwater Bay, Marriott Suites on Sand Key commands excellent views over the water. Offering a quieter experience than other Clearwater Beach hotels, the resort is closer to Sand Key Beach than Clearwater. The latter, nonetheless, is less than 5 minutes by car. In exchange for the slightly remote location, you expect a more family-friendly experience. Marriott Suites on Sand Key offers a kid’s club, year-round outdoor pool, and plenty of water-sports rentals. What’s more, there’s a resident’s discount for Georgia and Florida locals.
Best things to do nearby:
- Maggie Mae’s Waterfront (190 meters) — Cozy waterfront brunch joint
- Al and Stella Authentic Italian Restaurant And Pizzeria (350 meters) — Leafy waterfront terrace with marina views
- Abu Seba Beach (400 meters) — Pleasant swimming beach on the marina side
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 262 – USD 361
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 1201 Gulf Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
7. Sheraton Sand Key Resort
Ranking among the most popular Clearwater Beach hotels for 45 years, Sheraton is a long-standing crowd favorite. In particular, families love its spacious pool deck (with children’s pool) that connects to 13 acres of immaculate private beach. With five onsite restaurants, there’s something to suit every appetite. Likewise, grownups can choose to sip on excellent local craft beer at Mainstay Tavern or head down to Slo Joe’s Poolside Turtle Bar for a rum-based cocktail by the firepit.
Best things to do nearby:
- Columbia Restaurant Sand Key (400 meters) — White-linen restaurant specializing in latin favorites
- Sand Key Park (700 meters) — Spacious oceanfront area ideal for swimming
- Clearwater Yacht Club (1.8 kilometers) — Historic boat club on Clearwater’s marina coast
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 213 – USD 645
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 1160 Gulf Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
8. Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
It’s hard to beat the Hilton’s location, right next to lively Pier 60. That’s one reason why this Clearwater Beach hotel is so popular for both family trips and romantic getaways. Take advantage of the proximity every evening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. That is to say, the 3 dreamy hours that the boardwalk buzzes with performances, music, and vendors. During the day, there’s just as much to do back at the Hilton. Four beachside covered decks, plenty of private cabanas, and a fun-filled tiki bar, to name a few examples. If that all sounds like a little too much action, you can also retire to the Hibiscus Spa. Lava shell massage, anyone?
Best things to do nearby:
- Pearly’s Beach Eats (260 meters) — Laidback American fare in a colorful beach shack setting
- Clear Sky Cafe (350 meters) — Easygoing cafe offering live music and a seafood-oriented menu
- Clearwater Marina (400 meters) — Yacht-filled harbor offering fishing and dining tours
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 191 – USD 649
Guest Rating: 7.0
Address: 400 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States
9. Pelican Pointe Hotel and Resort
Not all Clearwater Beach hotels come with a hefty price tag. If looking for a cheap escape, this fantastic hotel gives you near-instant access to Florida’s best beach. Still, don’t think you’ll be compromising on quality. Pelican Pointe features colorful contemporary rooms with plenty of space to swing a suitcase. In many cases, guests can enjoy a separate living space. Meanwhile, the balconies are a great place to catch a few rays in private. Moreover, the outdoor pool is a great addition for families.
Best things to do nearby:
- Frenchy’s South Beach Café (350 meters) — Colorful diner famed for its fried grouper
- Clearwater Beach (450 meters) — Florida’s whitest sands are just a few minutes walk away
- Pier 60 (1 kilometer) — Nightly performances, live music, and food vendors
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 108 – USD 179
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 445 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
10. Island Cay Hotel at Clearwater Beach
Island Cay’s lush garden and salt water pool make a real splash with guests. Crucially, Clearwater Beach just a block’s walk away. While you’re there, you can make use of the free beach chairs provided by the hotel. The perks don’t stop at the sand though. Island Cay also provides free bike rentals for eager city explorers. Perhaps return your wheels to check out the lively local nightlife though. Conveniently, some of the best bars are just five minutes walk away!
Best things to do nearby:
- Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar (500 meters) — Easygoing beachside dinner with a seafood heavy menu and gulf views
- Clearwater Aquarium (2.7 kilometers) — See diverse marine animals, from dolphins to sea turtles
- Caladesi Island State Park (2.8 kilometers) — Pristine natural reserve with beautiful beaches and gorgeous hikes
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 92 – USD 206
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 648 Poinsettia Avenue, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
11. Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel
If great views are what you’re looking for in your Clearwater Beach hotels, you won’t be disappointed by Pier House 60. Located steps from the waterfront, its rooms are where Clearwater beach looks its best. Opt for a waterfront room, and you’ll be treated to a large bay window that looks out over the beach’s white sands. Alternatively, get a north beach room. With private balconies, they face the iconic Pier 60. But wait — we haven’t even got to the best bit. Up on the 10th floor is Jimmy’s Crow’s Nest, arguably the best rooftop bar in Clearwater Beach. Famous for its fresh tropical cocktails, it’s the ideal spot to catch the last of the sun’s rays and see Clearwater Beach light up into the evening.
Best things to do nearby:
- Pier 60 (260 meters) — Pier adjacent location means you won’t have to miss one of Pier 60’s exciting evening shows
- Spotted Donkey Cantina (400 meters) — Fantastic Mexican fare in an unassuming setting
- Bait House (500 meters) — Dockside fresh seafood right on the Clearwater Marina
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 143 – USD 232
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 101 Coronado Drive, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
12. Residence Inn by Marriott Clearwater Downtown
If you’re looking for more than just beach time from your Florida escape, Marriott Clearwater Downtown might be the hotel for you. As you may have guessed, it’s located away from the beach in Clearwater’s buzzing urban center. As a result, it’s still less than 5 minutes drive to those sugar white sands. However, you’ll also be much better positioned for enjoying all the rest that this fun-loving part of Tampa Bay has to offer. The Clearwater Aquarium, for example, is minutes by car and is sure to wow with its resident dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life. Or there’s Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater’s best venue for live music and theater performances.
In addition to all the activity, guests at the Marriott Clearwater Downtown can look forward to a range of comfortable studios and suites. Some feature two bedrooms and a full kitchen. So they’re the ideal choice for larger groups or anyone who is planning to stick around in Clearwater for a little longer than usual. And let’s be honest — who isn’t?
Best things to do nearby:
- Cleveland Street (500 meters) — Walkable street lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops
- Capitol Theater (1 kilometer) — Iconic performance space
- Clearwater Country Club (2.1 kilometers) — Sunny Clearwater recreational club with golf and elegant dining
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 108 – USD 316
Guest Rating: 9.0
Address: 940 Court Street, Clearwater, FL 33756, United States
13. Edge Hotel Clearwater Beach
Located just steps from Beach Walk, Edge Hotel is on Clearwater Beach’s marina side. In other words, expect dazzling unobstructed views, particularly during sunrise. You’ll be able to revel all day in the hotel’s premium location thanks to the superb rooftop sundeck. It actually has two places where you can go for a swim, one being a marvelous drop-off infinity pool. Discover what living on the edge really means at the rooftop firebar. Every evening, there’s an exhilarating pyrotechnics show at 9 p.m., with a complimentary fireball shot for guests.
Best things to do nearby:
- Gondolier Pizza (450 meters) — Italian and Greek fare in a cozy setting
- SHOR American Seafood Grill (650 meters) — Traditional American seafood restaurant with views of the water
- Sand Key Beach (2.5 kilometers) — Clearwater Beach’s lesser known neighbor is right across the water
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 259 – USD 396
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 505 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, United States
Hotel Location
Which of These Clearwater Beach Hotels Is Best for You?
With over 2.5 miles of unspoilt white sand, Clearwater Beach remains one of Florida’s most popular destinations. You can’t go wrong with a beach escape to this year-round island escape.
In part, that’s because of the fantastic range of accommodation available right on the water. However, depending on the nature of your stay, some hotels might be more suited to you than others. Looking for great views and your own private beach? Consider Sandpearl Resort. Visiting from nearby? Take advantage of the reduced rates for local residents at Clearwater beach hotels like Opal Sands. Meanwhile, the Residence Inn and Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach are ideal choices for those looking to get a little work done.
There really is something for everything. Perhaps the only thing they all have in common is that no matter where you base yourself in Clearwater Beach, its dazzling whitesand namesake is bound to blow you away.
