Where to stay in Clearwater Beach: Best Airbnbs and hotels in the Clearwater Beach area

Clearwater Beach is one of Tampa Bay’s most popular vacation areas for families and couples alike. Its pristine white sandy beaches, dolphin boat tours, and happening beach town draw in the crowds, so it’s no wonder Clearwater Beach is consistently being voted one of the best in the nation.If you’re planning an upcoming vacation to this Gulf Coast haven, this guide covers where to stay in Clearwater Beach. From hotels and Airbnbs near the beach to more spacious and affordable options in downtown Clearwater’s relaxed neighborhoods.Due to the high demand for hotels in Clearwater Beach, it can tend to be pricey. If you have a moderate budget, don’t worry; we included inexpensive alternatives in addition to the top luxury resorts.So let’s uncover the best areas and places to stay in Clearwater Beach!

Best Areas to Stay in Clearwater

If you are trying to figure out where to stay in Clearwater there are a few main areas, each with something different to offer.

• Clearwater Beach: You can stay by/on the beach conveniently located to shops and restaurants.
• Downtown Clearwater: For those on a very tight budget or looking for a more peaceful atmosphere.
• Bellaire/ Bellaire Beach: Only around 5 miles south of Clearwater. Expanding your accommodation search to Bellaire will give you Airbnb options with space for families/groups.

Keep reading below for our top picks for hotels in the Clearwater Beach area.

Best Hotels in Clearwater, FL

Clearwater Beach

Opal Sands Resort

Best for – being treated like familyOpal Sands Resort is a 4-star luxury waterfront hotel in Clearwater. Gulf views are guaranteed, no matter which room you book! Each room is adorned with premium bedding, ocean-inspired art, and modern decor in various textures and patterns. We think it’s one of the best high-end hotels in Clearwater Beach for celebrating a special occasion. The property has plenty of places to relax on-site, from the spacious poolside lounge chairs to the private beach, spa, or your room’s private balcony.You won’t have to figure out where to eat dinner because there’s an Italian restaurant conveniently on the property. The Tiki bar will be your go-to spot for drinks and lighter fare. Better yet, as of early 2025, guests will receive sky bridge access to the neighboring property, Opal Sol, which will have six restaurants, three pools, and a spa. Opal Sands Resort also includes a fitness center so you don’t have to miss a beat.Choose from a king, queen room, or a 1-bedroom king with a kitchenette. Prices typically range between $450-$629 USD per night.Check out prices and availability on Booking.com.

JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

Best for – luxury feel with private beachAnother Clearwater Beach hotel with all the bells and whistles is JW Marriott’s Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. What’s not to love about being steps away from the ocean? The location of this property is one of its best features — tucked away from the main Clearwater strip for maximized relaxation. The resort fees include two beach chairs and an umbrella each day. That being said if you want to get out and explore, take the free bikes for a spin to access shops, restaurants, and other beaches in Clearwater.During your stay, you can enjoy meals from the beach bar & grill, the 11th-floor rooftop bar & restaurant, or Latitude 28, a fine dining experience. You can grab coffee, tea, or pre-packaged foods from the market. To enjoy the breakfast buffet, there is a fee of $30 USD.You can also escape to the spa for a much-needed stress reliever. You will find body treatments, facials, massages, and nail services on the menu.The rooms are calming and comfortable. The guest room options for the king and queen rooms include no view, an intercoast view, or a beach view. There are also 1, 2, and 3-bedroom suites and residences with the same varying views. JW Marriott Clearwater is pet-friendly so your furry companions won’t have to miss out!Reserve your dates on Booking.com.

Courtyard Clearwater Beach

Best for – budget-friendly located across the street from the beachThe main lure of this hotel in Clearwater Beach is its price point for the proximity to the beach, food, and entertainment. Most places are within a 10-minute walk. Because Courtyard Clearwater Beach is situated on the intercoastal side the starting price is lower than its competitors on the beachfront side. Expect to pay as little as $199 a night during the off-season and upwards of $444 during peak season.The hotel is impeccably clean, and the kind staff members will make sure every need is met. There is a rooftop lounge where you can take in the beautiful views of the harbor with a cocktail. On the main level, you will find a small bistro serving lunch and dinner. The pool is nice but it’s on the smaller side so we recommend getting there early to find open loungers.The rooms are spacious and many of them include a balcony overlooking the marina. You’re sure to get a restful sleep with the black-out curtains in the rooms. A hot breakfast is included each morning and there is a gym, free bikes, and a 24-hour front desk.View prices and available dates on Booking.com.

Downtown Clearwater

Residence Inn Clearwater Downtown

This is one of the best hotels in the Clearwater Beach area with a reasonable price, great amenities, and clean and comfortable rooms. It is located 3 miles from Clearwater Beach and 5 miles from Sand Key. If you bring bikes it would be a quick ride across the causeway to the main strip and beach. Guests really appreciated the hospitality from the staff members.Each morning they serve a complimentary breakfast with a standard selection of hot and cold items to choose from. They also have a small gym with basic equipment and a pool.The average nightly rate is $179 USD and parking is free.See prices and book on Booking.com.

Tropical Inn & Suites

Best for – affordable, clean, simple, and safeWhen it comes to budget-friendly options, this recently renovated, family-owned motel located just east of downtown Clearwater is an excellent choice. It’s a 15-minute drive to the beach. Each room is well-appointed with attractive colors, updated furniture, a flat-screen TV, a desk, and complimentary WiFi. Some rooms also come with a microwave, mini-fridge, and stovetop.The common areas feature a courtyard with seating, a fire pit, and a pool that is handicap accessible.Please note that there is a $10 USD per day parking fee. As this is not a chain hotel, breakfast or coffee is not provided in the lobby.The standard rate is usually $214 USD per day.”View prices and available dates on Booking.com.

Best Location in Clw! Near Beach & Saltwater Pool!

Best for – home away from home (amenities)Located just a short drive across the bridge from Clearwater Beach, this home is an oasis and offers the perfect getaway without having to deal with the beach traffic. There are convenient dining options nearby, including a Mexican and sushi restaurant within walking distance, along with many more restaurants in the surrounding area.The bungalow has been fully renovated in 2021, so everything inside is brand new! It technically sleeps 6 people but two of the beds are single in the loft which would be best suited for kids. On the main floor, there is a king bedroom and a queen bedroom.The owners are intentional about keeping the home fully stocked, so it feels like a home away from home. Whether it’s the condiments in the fridge, the laundry soap in the washroom, or the beach supplies, they have tried to think of everything, and it is reflected in the guest reviews.There is a saltwater pool in the backyard and it will be heated for free in the winter months. The garage has been converted into a gym with dumbells and a bench. The driveway can fit up to 3 cars.The nightly rate, including taxes and fees, is $378 USD with a minimum stay of 5 nights.Find out more details and book on Airbnb.

Bellaire/ Bellaire Beach

The Belleview Inn

Best for – 4-star hotel with historic charmThe Belleview Inn will prove to be anything but a cookie-cutter stay. It’s one of the best hidden gem hotels in the Clearwater Beach area. The expansive property dates back to 1897 and underwent a facelift in 2018. Today, it feels alive yet true to its roots.The inn is only a 10-15 minute drive to Bellaire Beach, Sand Key, and Clearwater Beach, with Bellaire Beach being the closest. The best part is that your stay at Belleview Inn entitles you to beach access at Sandpearl, a sister property. Free parking and lounge chairs are also part of the deal, just make sure to bring your Bellview Inn wristband.Accommodation options include standard king or queen rooms, junior suites, or 1-bedroom suites.Each morning, a staff member delivers a small picnic basket to your door filled with breakfast items. If you need more to eat you can make your way to the Belleair Country Club which has two casual dining lounges for breakfast and lunch and an elevated main dining room for dinner.The rest of The Belleview Inn has lots of spaces to explore. Be sure to check out Maisie’s Marketplace on the ground floor for small bites and drinks.The price per night starts from the mid $200s during the slow season and can reach the high $300s during the busy season.Check out availability and prices on Booking.com.

Belleair Beach Resort Motel

Best for: oceanfront on a budgetExperience beachfront bliss at Belleair Beach Resort Motel. This older property isn’t flashy, but it’s clean and has everything you need for a pleasant stay. Gusts rave about the private, peaceful beach, which is just a short walk from the property.  The styling of the rooms feels like a blast from the past but in a charming way. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, coffee maker, mini-fridge, and a microwave.Prices begin at $238 USD for an economy double room. You can upgrade for an ocean view or kitchenette.Book here on Booking.com

Ready to book your Airbnb or Hotel in the Clearwater Beach area?

In this guide, we have explored the best places to stay in Clearwater. Whether you’re looking for the perfect family Airbnb or beachfront hotel in Clearwater, we hope we’ve given you more confidence about where you want to stay in the Clearwater Beach area.