Clearwater Beach maintains its reputation as one of the top beach towns in Florida thanks to one reason: the city takes its maintenance seriously.
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Very seriously.
Its walkable boardwalk follows its sugar-white-sand beach, which is home to some of the state’s clearest water. (Who would have guessed?) It’s got other hallmarks of an unbeatable beach town, aside from its soft white sand and its penchant for keeping it clean.
There’s the famed Pier 60, a world-class marine aquarium, tours that guarantee dolphin sightings, and plenty more—from seafood fine dining to boutique shopping. And while you can find fantastic vacation rentals around the city, you might want to lean into the local culture (and take a dip in a beautiful pool) at a highly rated hotel.
Here’s where to start if you’re looking for hidden gem hotels in Clearwater Beach that come with pools just as dreamy as the beach.
At a glance: top 3 hidden gem hotels in Clearwater Beach
- For couples: Shepard’s Beach Resort
- For families: Hotel Cabana Clearwater Beach
- For the unexpected: Adobe Beach House
9 hidden gem hotels in Clearwater Beach that come with a pool
Shepard’s Beach Resort
- Atmosphere: A waterfront hotel with a path leading straight onto the white-sand beach and plenty of water sports to enjoy
- Amenities: Gorgeous outdoor pool, direct beachfront access, complimentary cushioned beach loungers, three on-site restaurants, and water activities like parasailing, snorkeling, and kayaking
- What you need to know before booking: Shepard’s Beach Resort isn’t just one of the best hidden gem hotels in Clearwater Beach—it’s one of the state’s top under-the-radar getaways
Dolphin Sands Clearwater Beach, an Ascend Collection Hotel
- Atmosphere: This is a casual motel-style beach hotel that comes with experiential amenities you’ll love, like the beach cabana bar, and modern features throughout
- Amenities: On-site restaurant, outdoor pool, private beach access, and beach cabanas served by a bar
- What you need to know before booking: Book a room with a beach-facing balcony to soak up private sunsets with your boo
Adobe Beach House
- Atmosphere: It’s pink, it’s trendy, and it’s guaranteed to suck you into more than a few photoshoots during your stay—great for anyone who appreciates a little retro eye candy
- Amenities: Outdoor pool with umbrellas and loungers, apartment-style rooms, and blackout curtains for great sleep
- What you need to know before booking: You don’t have direct beach access, but you aren’t more than a few blocks from the white sand
Opal Sands Resort
- Atmosphere: A grand hotel with everything you could want from a Gulf of Mexico visit, from an on-site seafood restaurant with sunset views to a full-service spa with world-class treatments
- Amenities: Heated outdoor pool, waterfront restaurant and bar, full-service spa, and sweeping views of the water
- What you need to know before booking: This hotel doesn’t offer direct beach access, although you’ll be treated to sweeping Gulf views
Sandpearl Resort
- Atmosphere: A large-scale resort with plenty of room to roam, from the beach to the outdoor restaurant with sunset views
- Amenities: Car service into town, direct beach access with loungers and umbrellas, on-site hot tub, outdoor pool, and water activities like sailing, parasailing, and surfing
- What you need to know before booking: You’re a little removed from the hustle and bustle of Clearwater Beach, letting you zen out between the beach and outdoor pool
The Avalon Club
- Atmosphere: A beachfront hotel with great views, solid amenities, friendly staff, and a relaxed vibe thanks to its smaller size
- Amenities: Direct beach access, outdoor pool, free beach supplies (umbrella, toys, and chairs), and an on-site bar
- What you need to know before booking: If you’re after private sunset viewings, make sure to book a room with a terrace facing the Gulf
Hotel Cabana Clearwater Beach
- Atmosphere: This is a renovated hotel with modern features throughout, giving you a perfect blend of traditional hotel fare in a beachier, trendier package
- Amenities: Rooftop terrace, direct beach access, two outdoor pools (one heated), and beach supplies (towels and umbrellas)
- What you need to know before booking: You can book bunk-room suites that are great for kids
Devon Shores
- Atmosphere: A motel-style stay with modern finishes and beachy features that you’ll appreciate
- Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool, garden, and a two-minute walk to the beach
- What you need to know before booking: This is one of the most affordable hotels in Clearwater Beach with a pool—it’s great for budget travelers
Belleair Beach Resort Motel
- Atmosphere: This is yet another motel that’s been repackaged into a more comfortable form—one that’s set around a gorgeous pool and perfect beachfront views
- Amenities: Outdoor pool, direct beach access and views, barbecue areas, free parking, and comfortable beds
- What you need to know before booking: If you like space to stretch out—both at the beach and in your room—look no further, just know that you’re a bit outside the city center
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