10 Best Clearwater Hotels for Families

The hotel business is booming in Clearwater, Florida, where nearly a dozen hotels have recently opened or are in the works. Demand is thanks in part to the famous residents of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Winter, the star of Disney”s “Dolphin Tale,” lives there with her friend, Hope. Of course, the beach itself has long attracted families, and many hotels offer accommodations right on the sand and surf. Consider a stay at one of these hotels, rated highly by family travelers and our staff of experts (and be on the look-out for all the new hotels coming to the area, too).

Written by Amanda Geronikos

1/10

Sandpearl Resort

The Sandpearl Resort fronts the Gulf of Mexico, providing beautiful views for families who visit. Families can also take advantage of the resort"s oceanfront pool, kids" club, spa, and restaurants. All accommodations have mini-fridges, bottled water and complimentary Wi-Fi; book a Gulf Front Room for the best experience.

2/10

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa provides the ultimate getaway in Clearwater Beach. The resort is just across the street from the beach, where guests enjoy towel, chaise lounge and food and beverage service. It offers a swimming pool, spa, kids" club (Camp Hyatt), and three onsite dining options. The guestrooms are especially family-friendly, with fully equipped kitchens.

3/10

Sheraton Sand Key Resort

The Sheraton Sand Key Resort has four onsite restaurants, including a poolside café, where families can grab a bite to eat and relax. The pool fronts the ocean, providing magnificent views and direct access to a private stretch of sand. Families can rent jet skis on the beach, or while away the day in a private cabana. Other offerings at the hotel include a playground, tennis court, children"s pool, onsite market, and complimentary parking. Some rooms feature private balconies or patios.

4/10

Marriott Suites Clearwater Beach on Sand Key

This all-suite property is perfect for families, with accommodations that offer private balconies, mini-fridges, microwaves and wet bars. The Marriott Suites Clearwater Beach on Sand Key also attracts families with a kids" clubhouse and pool with a cascading waterfall. There are two restaurants onsite -- one casual and one elegant -- as well as a spa.

5/10

Wyndham Garden Clearwater Beach

Guests of the Wyndham Garden Clearwater Beach enjoy a private oasis on the beach, along with three onsite dining options, an outdoor pool and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guestrooms feature balconies and mini-fridges. The hotel is located 15 miles from St. Petersburg/Clearwater International Airport.

6/10

Hilton Clearwater Beach

The Hilton Clearwater Beach has everything a family could need while vacationing in Clearwater, including two swimming pools, a kids" club, and several dining options. All accommodations have private balconies, and suites add a mini-fridge and dining table.

7/10

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Clearwater Beach

It"s not located right on the beach, but the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Clearwater Beach is located just a few minutes away, and offers conveniences that are hard to pass up! They include an outdoor pool, live entertainment, and rooms with mini-fridges and microwaves. The hotel also offers KidSuites, providing separate areas for your youngest set. Kids ages 12 and under eat free at the onsite restaurant, Jimmy"s Fish House & Iguana Bar.

8/10

Pier House 60 Marina Hotel

Pier House 60 Marina Hotel offers all the perks of a chain hotel without being an actual chain. Located just steps from the beach, it offers complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi. Accommodations -- guestrooms and studios -- have mini-fridges, microwaves and coffeemakers. Request a studio if you want a balcony -- many of them offer private balconies with ocean views. The hotel, of course, is located at Pier 60, which hosts evening entertainment and family activities.

9/10

Sea Captain Resort on the Bay

Sea Captain Resort on the Bay is an official resort partner of Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home of Winter the Dolphin from “Dolphin Tale.” The historic hotel, which opened in 1952, offers modern amenities, including suites with fully equipped kitchens, a swimming pool, laundry facility, complimentary breakfast, bike rentals, shuffleboard, boat slips and barbecue grills.

10/10

Residence Inn Clearwater Downtown

The Residence Inn Clearwater Downtown offers accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and complimentary Wi-Fi. The centrally located hotel also provides an outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast. It is within close proximity of the beach and other local attractions.