Elena Mallia 
Ready to have fun on one of the most popular beaches in the US? I’m sure you are but first, you’ll want to check this guide on where to stay in Clearwater Beach!
I did thorough research and came up with an incredible list of hotels, for all budgets and I also included a short section on the best areas that you should explore while visiting.
The hotels are ordered from most to least expensive and you’ll also find a short and sweet bonus with the top VRBOs in Clearwater Beach.
Definitely book your hotels in advance as this is a super popular holiday destination!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you’re short on time and you need to book immediately, check out this list of the best hotels in Clearwater Beach:
Contents
Overview of the areas
Wondering which is the best place to stay in Clearwater Beach for the first time?
I’ve got you covered! South Clearwater Beach is perfect for you as that’s where you’ll find countless bars and restaurants and the famous Pier 60, a lively boardwalk with shops and stalls.
For those traveling on a budget, I’d recommend heading to Downtown as hotels can be cheaper there, however, you’ll have to use public transport to get to the beach. Luckily there’s a free trolley called Jolley Trolley that you can use.
PRO TIP: I wouldn’t recommend renting a car as traffic can get pretty bad and parking is usually an issue too. You’ll need to arrive super early wherever you’re going (around 7 to 8 AM) in order to find any free parking spots.
For those who want to enjoy some tranquility and peace, I’d recommend North Clearwater. There are only a couple of hotels here, so it’s more exclusive (hence the higher prices) but definitely worth every penny!
Sand Key & Belleair Beach is the best area to stay in Clearwater, Florida for families traveling with kids, as it’s also more peaceful and relaxed than South Clearwater Beach.
Luxury (US$300 and up)
JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa – offers amazing views
Set right on the sandy shores, near Sand Key Park, this resort has it all! Incredible ocean views, a spa center, 3 on-site restaurants, an outdoor pool and a hot tub. You can also rent out bikes from the accommodation and head out to explore!
Their rooms are comfy and spacious and they come with balconies where you can enjoy your coffee in the morning while gazing at the ocean!
Sandpearl Clearwater Resort – best for relaxation
Hop from your bed, straight on the sandy shores while staying at this amazing resort that’s set a 20 min walk away from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The accommodation has the dreamiest lagoon-style pool, a full-service spa and 2 restaurants.
While here you can try all sorts of activities from parasailing, beach volleyball and also renting out bikes to explore the town. But one of my favorite things about this place is definitely their art gallery.
Opal Sands – offering waterfront dining
Enjoy coffee in your bed along with the incredible ocean views while staying in this hotel that’s set less than 1 mile away from Pier 60. After a day spent chilling on the beach, you can enjoy a dinner at the waterfront restaurant and some cocktails by the pool.
Guests can also hit the fitness center when they want and relax in the spa center which offers some amazing packages. There’s nothing like a good, old pampering day after being on the road.
Wyndham Grand Clearwater – with a spa center
Modern rooms, a fab pool that overlooks the ocean, delicious food and drinks, this hotel is surely a keeper! Spend some lazy mornings by the outdoor pool, while enjoying your coffee and then head to the beach for a swim in that fresh water.
Afterward, you can head to the hotel and arrange for a nice and long spa sesh, at their on-site wellness center.
Ivory Sands Beach Suites – for a relaxing stay
Offering a more cozy atmosphere, this accommodation has rooms with a contemporary design, balconies and pool views. While here you can enjoy a relaxing time in the jacuzzi, and swim all day in the pool.
The beach is only a 5 min walk away from the hotel and the Aquarium a 30 min walk from it.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort – with a kid’s club
Enjoy your stay in this amazing resort that has everything you’ll need during your holiday including a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, a restaurant and even a kid’s club where your little ones can play.
They have super spacious rooms, some even come with a kitchen, a lounge area with a flat-screen Tv and a balcony that overlooks the ocean.
Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!
Mid-range (from US$190 to US$250)
AC Hotel Clearwater Beach – modern hotel with a pool
Catch a super scenic sunset on the incredible rooftop terrace of this pet-friendly accommodation that has a bar, a restaurant and a gym.
You’ll also find a swimming pool set on one of the higher floors (you’ll definitely get some fab views from there too!). Their rooms are simple yet modern and equipped with everything you need for your holiday.
Courtyard by Marriott Clearwater Beach – with a rooftop terrace
End a day spent on some of the best beaches here, with some cocktails on the rooftop terrace of this accommodation that offers a fitness center, parking spaces and a 24/7 front service.
Their rooms come with a flat-screen Tv and a furnished balcony where you can relax and enjoy the views.
Barefoot Bay Resort Motel – a great place for families
Looking for a place that’s close to the Aquarium and the beach? Then check out this amazing accommodation that’s within walking distance of both.
The resort motel offers rooms with a small kitchenette, a seating area and a flat-screen Tv. You’ll also find an outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers where you can chill under the Florida sun and barbecue facilities.
Belleair Beach Resort Motel – with a cozy vibe
Set in the Belleair Beach area, just a 5 min drive from Indian Rocks Beach, this area offers a homey vibe, perfect for your stay in Clearwater Beach! Their spacious suites come with a kitchenette and a flat-screen Tv.
The accommodation has a beachfront location so you can enjoy the stunning ocean views from the hotel’s outdoor terrace. Some of their rooms also have a balcony so you can catch some great sunrises if you’re an early bird!
Budget (up to US$190)
Devon Shores – with a great location
Looking for something a bit more affordable? Then check out this place that’s set near the beach and Aquarium. Here, you’ll find simple rooms with a flat-screen Tv, air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
The hotel has 2 swimming pools, sun loungers and a little green area where you can relax in between beach runs.
Tropical Inn & Suites – an unmissable affordable place
Set in Downtown Clearwater, this accommodation is great for those who want to be closer to the city attractions (remember you can take the free trolley to head to the beach) and also for those traveling on a budget.
The inn offers rooms with a private bathroom and air-conditioning and a small green area with chairs and tables where you can enjoy the sun!
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$500 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$250 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$130 |
| 📍 Best area: | South Clearwater Beach |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | AC Hotel Clearwater Beach |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Devon Shores |
BONUS: Best VRBOs in Clearwater Beach
Not into the whole hotel stay, or maybe you want to share a place with your family and friends? Then definitely check out this bonus section where I included a short list of vacation rentals in Clearwater Beach.
I listed the accommodations from most to least expensive and the prices are from US$580 to US$300:
- Beautiful Clearwater Beach Home – this place has room for 6 people and it comes with an outdoor hot tub, a kitchen and a living room area.
- Historic Beach Cottage – such a cute cottage that offers access to a pool, a kitchen and a parking space. The accommodation has space for 5 people.
- Stylish Place – boasting a fully-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, outdoor space and 2 rooms, this one is surely a keeper!
FAQs about where to stay in Clearwater Beach
📍 Which is the best place to stay in Clearwater Beach?
JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa is one of the best places to stay in Clearwater Beach! Set right on the sandy shores this resort offers countless high-end facilities and great views.
🤔 Is North or South Clearwater Beach better?
It really depends on what you are looking for! They both have stunning beaches, but the South is more touristic and crowded, while the North is quieter and laid back which is perfect for a family getaway!
🏙️ Does Clearwater Beach have a downtown?
Yes, Clearwater Beach has a Downtown area which is one best places to stay in Clearwater, Florida on a budget.
👪 Where to stay in Clearwater Beach, FL for families?
The North part of Clearwater Beach is better for families as it’s much more tranquil and not super crowded.
🔍 What are the best things to do in Clearwater Beach?
Head to Pier 60 and check out the stalls, visit Honeymoon Island State Park as well as the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, try all the watersports and go on dolphin tours.
💸 What are the cheapest hotels on the beach in Clearwater Beach?
Wyndham Grand is one of the cheapest hotels set on the beach in Clearwater Beach.
🔝 What part of Clearwater Beach is less crowded?
The North side of Clearwater Beach is less crowded.
🌞What is the best month to visit Clearwater Beach Florida?
Some of the best months to visit Clearwater Beach are between October and December when there aren’t as many tourists and the temperatures are perfect.
🚗 Do you need a car in Clearwater Beach?
If you want to explore around, yes, you’ll need a car. But since traffic is pretty bad here I’d also recommend using the Jolley Trolley (which is free).
🏨 What are the best oceanfront Clearwater Beach hotels?
JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa and Sandpearl Resort are some of the best oceanfront resorts in Clearwater Beach. Both offer luxurious facilities and have amazing reviews.
Final thoughts
Who’s already excited to visit one of the best beaches in the US? I bet everyone!
I hope that this guide on where to stay in Clearwater Beach, Florida helped you decide which hotel to pick for your holiday!
If you’re still not sure, here are my 2 top-rated favorite ones:
- JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa – a stunning place on the beach that has 3 restaurants
- AC Hotel Clearwater Beach – this hotel offers amazing views from its rooftop terrace
Just remember that Clearwater Beach is a super popular holiday destination and the hotels are pretty expensive so it’s definitely better to book your favorite in advance.
If you have any questions about this location, don’t hesitate to drop them in the comment section below. I’d be happy to help you out!
Happy exploring,
Elena
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