Thanks to its location on Florida’s central west coast, Clearwater has some of the best beachfront accommodation around. Its high season is during the winter, but heading there in the fall can score you a good deal (and a more private experience).
TravelMag.com has assembled three surefire hits for those flocking to the sunny climes of Clearwater Beach. We compared proximity to the ocean, customer reviews, and hotel amenities to determine the best place to rest your head on your next vacation. Travel there any time—aside from the occasional brief cold snap, the area is warm year-round.
DREAMVIEW BEACHFRONT HOTEL & RESORT
From $179/ night
This is some of the best seaside action available in Florida. A private stretch of white sand beach features lounge chairs, cabanas, and signature drink service that comes right to you. The heated outdoor pool is a nice option for swimming on chillier nights. The hotel’s restaurant offers dining indoors or al fresco—try a themed drink from the Tiki Bar. This part of Clearwater Beach is just two miles from the local aquarium and only six minutes’ drive from shopping and fishing hotspot Pier 60. Grab a coffee from the resort’s on-site Starbucks before you head out for the day.
BEACHVIEW HOTEL
From $130/ night
One of the best values on all of Clearwater Beach, this hotel provides the same ocean vistas as its neighbors without as much sticker shock. The beach is just across the street, or you can stay on premises and relax by the outdoor pool. A complimentary continental breakfast starts each morning, and an onsite restaurant will keep you fed throughout the day. There are firepits and a tiki bar by the pool. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, an exercise room, and on-site parking. The hotel is a short walk from both the aquarium and Pier 60—even shorter if you choose to rent one Beachview’s Segways.
OPAL SANDS RESORT
From $319/ night
You’ll pay a bit more for these beachfront digs, but it’s worth it. The hotel sits directly on Clearwater Beach, and comes equipped with a beachside tiki bar and a separate restaurant overlooking the Gulf called Sea-Guini, serving up Italian-inspired seafood. Jet ski, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are available on request, and guests have access to a full-service spa and fitness center. There’s a second bar by the pool, which features live entertainment each night. Other amenities include valet parking, free Wi-Fi, a sun terrace, fire pits, and private meeting spaces.