Planning a staycation in the Tampa Bay area offers residents and visitors a relaxing escape without the need for extensive travel. In the heart of the action, Hotel Haya in Ybor City stands out as a top choice. It is surrounded by vibrant storefronts and delicious dining options, providing a lively atmosphere perfect for a short getaway.
For those looking for luxury amenities combined with a culinary experience, The Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection is an ideal pick. With packages starting at $188 per night, guests can enjoy discounted room rates and complimentary drinks, making it a cost-effective yet indulgent option.
Beach lovers might prefer Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa for its direct beach access, tiki bar, and live music. This resort offers both relaxation and entertainment, ensuring a memorable staycation by the water.
Deciding Your Staycation Experience
In the vibrant Tampa Bay area, the choice of where to spend your staycation can significantly shape your experience. Whether you’re seeking luxury, a connection to history, or top-notch amenities, Tampa Bay offers a variety of standout options.
Luxury and Boutique Hotels
Tampa Bay’s luxury and boutique hotels provide an elevated experience with unique characteristics and superior service. The Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection features culinary-focused amenities, including in-room wine coolers and a cooking classroom.
Hotel Haya, located in Ybor City, blends Cuban-inspired décor with modern luxury, creating a unique ambiance for its guests. Each of these hotels ensures a memorable stay with personalized services and distinctive touches that elevate the staycation experience.
Resort-Style Amenities
For those looking to unwind in a resort-like setting, Tampa Bay includes hotels that offer comprehensive amenities. The Don Cesar, also known as “The Pink Palace,” stands out with its beachfront location and historic charm. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, a full-service spa, and views of the Gulf of Mexico.
At JW Marriott Tampa Water Street , visitors will find a rooftop pool, fitness center, and several on-site dining options, perfect for those wanting everything in one place. These features provide relaxation and entertainment without the need to leave the property, making them ideal for a hassle-free staycation.
Historic Stays
Tampa Bay boasts several historic hotels that offer a glimpse into the past while providing modern comforts. Le Méridien Tampa, set in a former federal courthouse, preserves its historical elements while offering luxury accommodations. The blend of original architectural details with contemporary furnishings creates a uniquely charming environment.
Hotel Haya captures the spirit of Ybor City’s past, making it a favorite for those interested in the area’s rich cultural history. Staying in these historic hotels allows guests to experience Tampa Bay’s heritage, adding a layer of depth and interest to their staycation.
Location and Accessibility
Tampa Bay offers a diverse range of staycation spots, each with unique advantages in terms of location and ease of access.
Downtown Convenience
Staying in Downtown Tampa provides unmatched convenience.
Hotels in this area, like those near the Tampa Riverwalk, offer easy access to Amalie Arena for sports and events. The Riverwalk itself is a hub of activity with dining, museums, and scenic views, perfect for evening strolls.
Downtown’s central location means that it’s just a short drive from the Tampa International Airport, making travel logistics simpler.
The variety of transportation options, including TECO streetcars, ensures you can easily reach other interesting spots such as Ybor City, known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage.
Waterfront Views
For those seeking a scenic retreat, Tampa Bay’s waterfront hotels offer stunning vistas and relaxation opportunities.
Accommodations around Rocky Point and Bay Harbor boast beautiful views of the bay and access to water-based activities.
The Courtney Campbell Causeway provides a picturesque route to these hotels. Many properties here emphasize serene environments while still being near key spots.
Additionally, this area’s proximity to Downtown ensures you can enjoy both tranquility and the city’s amenities, with just a short ride connecting the two.
Proximity to Attractions
Staying in Tampa Bay means being near a host of attractions.
Hotels around Busch Gardens are excellent for family-friendly staycations due to their easy access to the theme park. Ybor City offers both historic charm and modern excitement, positioned conveniently for visiting Tampa Riverwalk and local shops.
Temple Terrace is another valuable location, close to animal attractions and rollercoaster parks, appealing to thrill-seekers and families alike.
Whether you prefer cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, strategically chosen hotels ensure most attractions are just a short trip away.
Entertainment and Dining
Tampa Bay offers a diverse array of dining experiences and entertainment options right within the hotels or just a short distance away. Visitors can indulge in a variety of cuisines, enjoy vibrant nightlife, and experience live entertainment ranging from music to casino games.
On-Site Restaurants and Bars
Many top hotels in Tampa Bay come with renowned on-site dining options. Hotel Haya in Ybor City features restaurants that serve coastal cuisines with a Latin American twist. The Epicurean Hotel on South Howard Avenue is known for its culinary experiences, including a rooftop bar Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar showcasing modern American dishes.
For those who enjoy cocktails, the lobby bars often serve hand-crafted drinks in stylish, relaxed settings. The Westin Tampa Bay offers a waterfront dining experience that integrates the culinary essence of the islands, providing guests with both spectacular views and delightful dishes.
Nearby Dining Hotspots
Guests looking to explore local dining hotspots can find unique restaurants and bars just minutes away from their hotels. Ybor City is packed with eclectic eateries and vibrant nightlife, offering everything from Spanish tapas to Cuban sandwiches.
Downtown Tampa hosts a culinary scene where visitors can indulge in gourmet meals at establishments like Armature Works and Oxford Exchange. Dining along the Tampa Riverwalk also adds a scenic backdrop to any meal, with options ranging from casual bites to upscale dining.
Casino and Live Entertainment
For those seeking entertainment beyond dining, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa provides a robust offering of casino games and live music performances. This venue features an expansive gaming floor with slot machines, table games, and poker rooms.
Live entertainment is a prominent feature, with regular concerts and shows catering to a variety of musical tastes. Many hotels also provide live music in their bars or outdoor pool areas, creating a relaxing atmosphere where guests can unwind. The Don CeSar on St. Pete Beach, known as “The Pink Palace,” often features live jazz and other performances in a historic setting, enriching the cultural experience for its guests.
Relaxation and Wellness Amenities
Guests seeking relaxation and wellness have excellent options in Tampa Bay’s best hotels. They can indulge in rejuvenating spa services, stay active at state-of-the-art fitness centers, and enjoy serene outdoor pool areas.
Spa Services
Many hotels in Tampa Bay feature luxurious spas offering a range of treatments. JW Marriott Tampa Water Street provides a sanctuary with 10 treatment rooms, facials, body exfoliation, and nail services. For those seeking a comprehensive wellness experience, Saddlebrook Resort includes in-room massage services and a dedicated wellness center. These spa facilities often include access to saunas and hot tubs, enhancing the relaxation experience.
Fitness Centers
For those looking to maintain their fitness routine, hotels like Epicurean Hotel offer well-equipped fitness centers. Many of these centers feature modern cardio and strength-training equipment. Guests at the Kimpton Hotel Zamora can also enjoy complimentary yoga classes on select days. Additionally, some hotels offer tennis courts, providing a blend of traditional fitness and recreational options.
Serene Outdoor Pools
Tampa Bay’s hotels excel with their picturesque and calming outdoor pool areas. The Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay features multiple outdoor heated pools, perfect for a relaxing swim at any time of year. Families will love Artemis Hotel, which boasts water slides and a lazy river. Furthermore, the Don CeSar hotel offers a serene outdoor pool with a nearby hot tub, enhancing the tranquility for its guests.
By covering these luxurious amenities, Tampa Bay hotels ensure a revitalizing stay for all their guests. Each facility aims to provide a balanced experience of relaxation and activity.
Accommodation Features and Conveniences
Visitors seeking a staycation in Tampa Bay can expect modern rooms with all the necessary conveniences for a seamless and enjoyable stay. Essentials such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and coffee makers ensure comfort and connectivity.
Comfortable and Modern Rooms
Hotels in Tampa Bay offer rooms designed for comfort and modernity. Guests will find flat-screen TVs providing entertainment options, while free Wi-Fi keeps them connected. The presence of coffee makers and refrigerators ensures that guests can enjoy a fresh brew or store their favorite snacks.
High-quality beds and bedding, complemented by amenities such as bathrobes, create a relaxing environment. Many hotels provide rooms equipped with safes to secure valuables. Business travelers will appreciate rooms furnished with desks and adequate lighting.
Conveniences for a Seamless Stay
Ensuring a smooth experience, many Tampa Bay hotels feature a range of amenities aimed at convenience. Free parking is commonly available, eliminating the hassle of securing a spot. Business centers are present in most establishments, providing necessary tools such as computers and printers.
For guests expecting to stay longer, hotels often have microwaves and refrigerators in-room for added convenience. Pet-friendly accommodations cater to those traveling with their furry friends. Essentials like hairdryers and ironing facilities are typically provided, ensuring guests have everything they need.