CAPTIVA ISLAND Captiva Island Inn Bed & Breakfast
11509 Andy Rosse Lane, 33924 Tel (239) 395-0882 Fax (239) 395-0862 Rooms 12
Close to the beach, the Captiva Island Inn is a delightful complex surrounded by restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. Two suites in the main building open to porches, and there are also four Dutch-style cottages. The complimentary breakfast from the nearby Keylime Bistro is great. www.captivaislandinn.com
CAPTIVA ISLAND Tween Waters Inn
15951 Captiva Rd, 33924 Tel (239) 472-5161 Fax (239) 472-0249 Rooms 138
A charming inn on a sandy palm grove. Some rooms face the Gulf, others the bay. Couples could opt for the bayside honeymoon cottage, and families can can rent the spacious three-bedroom house. The Old Captiva House restaurant is full of history, and a great spot for a meal. www.tween-waters.com
CAPTIVA ISLAND South Seas Resort
5400 Plantation Rd, 33924 Tel (239) 472-5111 Fax (239) 481-4947 Rooms 660
Situated on a former plantation, this resort is so vast that a free trolley operates across the entire establishment. Accommodations are villas, with a range of choices, including homes with private pools. If you enjoy golf, tennis, or swimming in one of 18 heated pools, this place is divine. www.southseas.com
CLEARWATER Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
301 South Gulfview Blvd, 33767 Tel (727) 373-1234 Rooms 250
All of the guest suites at this gorgeous hotel have full kitchens, private balconies, and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. With a full service spa, Camp Hyatt for kids and a welcoming policy for pets, this is a great choice for families. It’s located directly on the beach too. www.clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com
CLEARWATER BEACH Amber Tides Motel
420 Hamden Drive, 33767 Tel (727) 445-1145 Fax Same as above. Rooms 11
This well-maintained bayfront motel is only a five-minute walk from the beach. The rooms are clean and fairly basic, but there is a lovely pool garden in which to relax and tan. There is no on-site restaurant but local eateries are nearby One of the best deals in town for those looking to save money. www.ambertides-motel.com
CLEARWATER BEACH Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key
1201 Gulf Blvd, 33767 Tel (727) 596-1100 Fax (727) 595-4292 Rooms 220
A very pleasant hotel on stunning Sand Key. Great packages for children, and there is an adjacent boardwalk with shops and restaurants. Each room has a balcony as well as a complete living room with a pullout sofa bed. Exotic-looking heated pool with waterfalls. www.clearwaterbeachmarriottsuites.com
FORT MYERS Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa
17260 Harbour Pointe Rd, 33908 Tel (239) 466-4000 Fax (239) 466-2150 Rooms 401
This secluded resort overlooks San Carlos Bay and Sanibel Island. A free shuttle runs thrice a day to take guests to the island’s beaches. The main hotel and boutique-style Inn at Sanibel Island are modern and luxurious. The superb spa features over 60 treatments. Eight tennis courts and an outstanding kids’ club. www.sanibel-resort.com
FORT MYERS BEACH Island House Motel
701 Estero Blvd, 33931 Tel (239) 463-9282 Fax (239) 463-2080 Rooms 5
In a peaceful location along a bayside channel, this motel is within walking distance of the lively bar-and-restaurant-filled Times Square area of town. Four of the units have screened porches, and all have kitchens. The open-air lounge has a small library. Innkeepers offer free beach chairs and bikes, and are very accommodating.
FORT MYERS BEACH Palm Terrace Apartments
3333 Estero Blvd, 33931 Tel (239) 765-5783 Fax (239) 765-5783 Rooms 9
A favorite with European tourists, these smart apartments are close to the beach, and run by a couple who speak German, French, and Italian. Smaller units on the ground floor open to a grassy yard and have cooking facilities. The units upstairs have screened porches or decks overlooking the pool. www.palm-terrace.com
FORT MYERS BEACH Outrigger Beach Resort
6200 Estero Blvd, 33931 Tel (239) 463-3131 Fax (239) 463-6577 Rooms 144
A delightful, spick-and-span motel that’s been owned and operated by the same family since 1965. The small cottages with backyard decks are quite lovely. Other motel-style rooms overlook the parking lot, so try to avoid those. The lively beachside bar is one of the area’s best places for sunset views. www.outriggerfmb.com
FORT MYERS BEACH Sandpiper Gulf Resort
5550 Estero Blvd, 33931 Tel (239) 463-5721 Fax (239) 765-0039 Rooms 63
This homey resort is like your very own condo by the sea. The two low-rise buildings offer easy access to the beach and two tropical garden courtyards. Suites are beachfront apartments. A great option for an extended stay, the Sandpiper Gulf Resort is very popular with older travelers. www.sandpipergulfresort.com
FORT MYERS BEACH Edison Beach House All Suite Hotel
830 Estero Blvd, 33931 Tel (239) 463-1530 Fax (239) 765-9430 Rooms 24
This non-smoking inn has rooms that feature a balcony, fully-equipped kitchen, and desk with office supplies. Most bathrooms have a washer-dryer. The beachfront rooms have the best views, but the “A suites” have queen-sized beds surrounded by windows offering panoramic views of the Gulf and bay. www.edisonbeachhouse.com
FORT MYERS BEACH Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa
275 Estero Blvd, 33931 Tel (239) 463-6181 Fax (239) 463-1229 Rooms 234
Fronting the Gulf and Matanzas Pass, this resort has something for everyone, with suites and fully-equipped apartments. Old Florida-style cottages on stilts are available too. Great views of Sanibel Island. Children aged 4–11 can visit the “Kidds Kampp” while you relax in the spa. www.pinkshell.com
FORT MYERS BEACH DiamondHead Beach Resort
2000 Estero Blvd, 33931 Tel (239) 765-7654 Fax (239) 765-1694 Rooms 124
A 12-story beachside building with huge one-bedroom apartments, all of which have fine views. The rooms also have private balconies, sleeper sofas, two TVs, and kitchen areas, which make this spot popular for large groups or families traveling together. There is also a full-service restaurant and beach bar. www.diamondheadfl.com
LONGBOAT KEY Colony Beach and Tennis Resort
1620 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 34228 Tel (941) 383-6464 Fax (941) 383-7549 Rooms 235 D3 This resort has been a popular fixture for many years, and exudes an old-school country club vibe – men are required to wear jackets at dinner. The one- and two-bedroom condos have a living and dining room, kitchen, balcony, whirlpool tub, and steam shower. The tennis center also hosts professional games. www.colonybeachresort.com
MARCO ISLAND Olde Marco Inn and Suites
100 Palm St, 34145 Tel (877) 475-3466 Fax (239) 394-4485 Rooms 329
One of Florida’s most romantic resorts, this inn dates from 1883 and still exudes that Victorian charm. Many of the rooms have a tropical decor. The lush gardens and beach are sublime, and the restaurant is fantastic. However, the best part is the inn’s catamaran that sails guests to private beaches. www.oldmarcoinn.com
MARCO ISLAND Boat House Motel
1180 Edlington Place, 34148 Tel (239) 642-2400 Fax (239) 642-2435 Rooms 25
Save boatloads of money at this pleasant 1950s-style motel located near the Marco River at the north end of the island. Tropical decor, and two rooms have their own decks opening out to tiny courtyards. A good place to stay for a few nights, but for a longer visit, consider one of the slightly pricier beachfront resorts. www.theboathousemotel.com
MARCO ISLAND Marco Beach Ocean Resort
480 S Collier Blvd, 34145 Tel (239) 393-1400 Fax (239) 393-1401 Rooms 100
The most elegant in laid-back Marco Island, this all-suite resort features a health spa, an excellent Italian restaurant, and a marble-laden lobby. The beach is pristine and private, offering full service all day. Note that this place is on the formal side, so if you are looking for a jeans and T-shirt-type resort, this is definitely not it. www.marcoresort.com
MARCO ISLAND Marco Island Hilton Beach Resort
560 S Collier Blvd, 34145 Tel (239) 394-5000 Fax (239) 394-8410 Rooms 297
An eleven-story resort overlooking the Gulf. Rooms are comfortable with all mod cons. The courtyard has a beautiful swimming pool, where the Beach Club serves drinks and casual meals. Sandcastles Lounge has a piano bar with live entertainment. Be prepared to see lots of activity at this hotel. www.marcoislandmarriott.com
MARCO ISLAND Marco Island Marriott Resort and Golf Club
400 S Collier Blvd, 34145 Tel (239) 394-2511 Fax (239) 642-2672 Rooms 797
The best resort on Marco Island for families with kids, the Marco Marriott features camp-like activities for the kids while the grown-ups can either play golf nearby or indulge in the Balinese spa. All rooms have patios and balconies with spectacular views of the Gulf. Two fine restaurants add to the appeal. www.marcoislandmarriott.com
NAPLES Lighthouse Inn Motel
9140 Gulf Shore Drive, 34108 Tel (239) 597-3345 Fax (239) 597-5541 Rooms 15
The best bargain in town, the suites and apartments here have kitchens and are within walking distance of most local attractions, including shops and restaurants. Buzz’s Lighthouse Café is a popular waterfront spot frequented by even those staying at the Ritz.
NAPLES Sea Shell Motel
82 9th St S, 34102 Tel (239) 262-5129 Fax (239) 263-0182 Rooms 30
It is hard to miss the well-located Sea Shell, thanks to artist Dale Evers’ striking bronze Flying Dolphins at its entrance. About eight blocks from the beach, the basic but comfortable rooms also include some larger efficiencies. There is a beautiful garden and large heated pool. www.bestlodgingswflorida.com
NAPLES Hotel Escalante
290 5th Ave S, 34102 Tel (239) 659-3466 Fax (239) 262-8748 Rooms 71
A romantic boutique hotel, with large plush rooms, located within walking distance of the posh Fifth Avenue shopping district. The luxuriant private gardens feature walkways crafted from old brick imported from Chicago, and fountains from France. Enjoy lunch on the beach and a wine reception in the evening. www.hotelescalante.com
NAPLES LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort
9891 Gulf Shore Drive, 34102 Tel (239) 597-3123 Fax (239) 597-6278 Rooms 189
Located on Vanderbilt Beach, this is one of Naples’ best boutique hotels. All rooms have stunning Gulf views, French country decor, goose down pillows, and sublime bath products. A fantastic spa, an 18-hole golf course, and the David Leadbetter Golf Academy attract sporty types. The restaurant is phenomenal. www.laplayaresort.com
NAPLES Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club
851 Gulf Shore Blvd, 34102 Tel (239) 261-2222 Fax (239) 261-7380 Rooms 318
An old-school beach resort with a tennis center, 18-hole golf course and full-service spa. Rooms are pleasant and beachy. The Sunset Beach Bar is the area’s most popular spot as the sun sets. The restaurant faces the water and specializes in traditional Florida cuisine. The orchid gardens are spectacular. www.naplesbeachhotel.com
NAPLES Naples Grand Resort & Spa
475 Seagate Drive, 34103 Tel (239) 597-3232 Fax (239) 597-3147 Rooms 474
This luxury resort is not on the beach, but guests can board a free shuttle to get there. The two swimming pools are appealing, the spa is excellent, and the restaurant, Lafite, is one of the finest French restaurants in the area. There is also a swinging bar scene here at Luna, one of the city’s few dance clubs. www.naplesgranderesort.com
NAPLES Staybridge Suites
4805 Tamiami Trail North, 34108 Tel (239) 643-8002 Fax (239) 643-8069 Rooms 132 E4 This roomy resort gives you a chance to cook for yourself and eat in your room. It’s home away from home really, as there’s also plenty of room to bring along kids and pets – there’s a $150 pet fee though. Located in the heart of Naples, a short drive from the beach. www.staybridge.com
NAPLES The Inn on Fifth
699 5th Ave S, 34102 Tel (239) 403-8777 Fax (239) 403-8778 Rooms 87
One of Naples’ best hotels, this former bank building has a classic, European charm. The elegant rooms are refreshingly different from the typically “tropical” decor of Florida’s hotels. French doors open to a balcony facing the action on Fifth Avenue. The on-site McCabe’s Irish Pub is one of the city’s most popular hangouts. www.innonfifth.com
NAPLES The Ritz Carlton Golf Resort
2600 Tiburon Drive, 34109 Tel (239) 593-2000 Fax (239) 254-3300 Rooms 295
A haven for golf enthusiasts, this resort opened in 2001 at the 36-hole Tiburón Golf Club that was designed by Greg Norman in a residential enclave near Vanderbilt Beach. Excellent service, rooms, and meals. Guests here can also use the spa, beach, and other facilities at the Ritz’s beachfront sibling. www.ritzcarlton.com
NAPLES The Ritz Carlton Naples
280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, 34108 Tel (239) 598-3300 Fax (239) 598-6690 Rooms 463
Consistently rated one of the best in the US, this Ritz Carlton with its Mediterranean-style decor, is exquisite. The 14-story hotel overlooks the Gulf, and provides fantastic dining, excellent children’s programs, and a superb spa.The white sand beach, complete with waiter service, is a sublime spot for relaxed sunbathing. www.ritzcarlton.com
PALM HARBOR The Innisbrook Golf Resort
36750 US 19 N, 34684 Tel (727) 942-2000 Fax (727) 942-6676 Rooms 450
Golf Digest has proclaimed this golf resort one of the country’s best. The massive grounds include four spectacular golf courses that will keep lovers of the sport busy for days. The tennis courts and swimming pools are also exceptional. Accommodations range from suites to two-bedroom condos. www.westin-innisbrook.com
SAFETY HARBOR Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
105 N Bayshore Drive, 34695 Tel (727) 726-1161 Fax (727) 724-7749 Rooms 193
On the western shore of Tampa Bay, amid natural mineral springs, this is a fantastic spa and fitness destination. The sprawling waterfront resort has many attractive packages on offer, emphasizing relaxation and rejuvenation. Work up a sweat at the fitness centre, then allow yourself to be pampered with a massage. www.safetyharborspa.com
SANIBEL ISLAND Tarpon Tale Inn
367 Periwinkle Way, 33957 Tel (239) 472-0939 Fax (239) 472-6202 Rooms 5
A friendly and affordable non-smoking B&B, the rooms, all with themes, are bright, airy, and spacious, with white walls and tile floors. French doors lead to lush gardens full of seagrape, palm, and ficus trees. Shower-only bathrooms. Continental breakfast is delivered to your room. No maid service. www.tarpontale.com
SANIBEL ISLAND Casa Ybel Resort
2255 W Gulf Drive, 33957 Tel (239) 472-3145 Fax (239) 472-2109 Rooms 115
All accommodations in this spacious beachfront resort are cosy condos that are ideal for families. These one or two- bedroom options have great views, screened porches, and outdoor gas grills. The restaurant is one of the best in the area. Walk along miles of seashell-speckled sand or enjoy a splash in the pool. www.casaybelresort.com
SANIBEL ISLAND Island Inn
3111 W Gulf Drive, 33957 Tel (239) 472-1561 Fax (239) 472-0051 Rooms 57
This classic beach resort retains its original late 19th-century building, which now accommodates the lounge and library. The dining room is redolent of old-world decorum, and guests are required to dress for dinner. Suites are available, as well as private cottages. A warm ambience, great beaches, and terrific food. Book early. www.islandinnsanibel.com
SANIBEL ISLAND Sanibel Inn
937 E Gulf Drive, 33957 Tel (239) 472-3181 Fax (239) 472-5234 Rooms 94
Nature lovers will adore this place – stunning beaches, butterfly gardens, and the most vibrant tropical flowers and foliage. This effect seems to spill into the decor and color schemes of the spacious rooms. Go bird-watching, hiking, or even kayaking. Special children’s programs include shell safaris and dolphin watches. www.sanibelinn.com
SANIBEL ISLAND Sanibel’s Seaside Inn
541 E Gulf Drive, 33957 Tel (239) 472-1400 Fax (239) 472-6518 Rooms 32
Its superb location is what really clinches it for this 1960s retro-style inn. You can stay in a spacious cottage with kitchen facilities or in one of the beachfront hotel rooms. All units have balconies. A big perk is that guests can play at Dune’s golf and tennis club nearby, and also have special privileges at Sanibel Inn. www.seasideinn.com
SANIBEL ISLAND Sundial Beach Resort
1451 Middle Gulf Drive, 33957 Tel (239) 395-6031 Fax (239) 481-4947 Rooms 270
The largest resort on Sanibel Island, the Sundial is hugely popular with families due to the availability of spacious one- and two-bedroom condos. All units have screened balconies overlooking the beach or gardens. Activitiesinclude as sailing, golf, tennis, and even a touch tank. There are several good restaurants. www.sundialresort.com
SARASOTA The Helmlsley Sandcastle
1540 Ben Franklin Drive, 34236 Tel (941) 388-2181 Fax (941) 388-2655 Rooms 179
Located on a private beach, and minutes from the upscale St. Armands Circle shopping center. Rooms are average but comfortable, and the views are spectacular. The staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful. Enjoy the easygoing ambience and spend the day sunbathing, with regular visits to the pool bar. www.helmsleysandcastle.com
SARASOTA The Cypress
621 Gulfstream Ave, 34236 Tel (941) 955-4683 Rooms 5
With a charming tin roof, this little inn is hidden amid mango trees and swaying palms. It also overlooks the bay. The decor includes lovely antiques and a grand piano. Rooms feature queen-sized beds, hardwood floors, and oriental rugs. Perhaps the best-kept secret in Sarasota. Delicious breakfasts too. www.cypressbb.com
SARASOTA The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota
1111 Ritz Carlton Drive, 34236 Tel (941) 309-2000 Fax (941) 309-2100 Rooms 256 Road map D3
The amenities and decor here are typically Ritz-Carlton. Enjoy scenic views, four excellent restaurants, and a beautiful bayside courtyard with heated pool. Though there is no beach on site, a shuttle will whisk you away to beautiful Lido Key where the hotel has its own beach club. Excellent children’s program and impeccable service. www.ritzcarlton.com
SARASOTA Turtle Beach Resort
9049 Midnight Pass Rd, 34242 Tel (941) 349-4554 Fax (941) 312-9034 Rooms 10
An intimate retreat with five cottages, as well as five rooms in a more modern building. Each unit has a hot tub and the lush tropical foliage provides privacy – little wonder that honeymooners love the place. Guests can also use the fishing poles, rowboats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats free of charge. www.turtlebeachresort.com
SIESTA KEY Captiva Beach Resort
6772 Sara Sea Circle, 34242 Tel (941) 349-4131 Fax (941) 349-8141 Rooms 20
Comfortable and clean 1950s-style motel with window-mounted air conditioners and shower-only bathrooms. There is nothing luxurious or fabulous about this non-smoking resort, but if you are looking to stay for a longer while without breaking the bank, this is the place for you. Maid service is available once a week. www.captivabeachresort.com
ST. PETERSBURG Dickens House
335 8th Ave NE, 33701 Tel (727) 822-8622 Rooms 5
Restored to its original Craftsman-style architecture, all the five rooms in this quaint three-story B&B are decorated in a distinctive, charmingly whimsical fashion. They also have Egyptian cotton linens, fridges, and high-speed Internet access, which feels almost surreal considering that the house dates back to 1912. www.dickenshouse.com
ST. PETERSBURG Beach Drive Inn
532 Beach Drive NE, 33701 Tel (727) 822-2244 Fax (813) 354-4702 Rooms 6
This B&B within an early 20th-century house was once home to the Vinoy family, for whom the nearby Renaissance Vinoy Hotel is named. The rooms and rooftoop deck offer stunning waterfront views and it is within walking distance of downtown attractions. Free Wi-Fi, off-street parking and Wine & Cheese Welcome Nights. www.beachdriveinn.com
ST. PETERSBURG Mansion House B&B
105 5th Ave NE, 33701 Tel (727) 821-9391 Fax (727) 821-6909 Rooms 10
A courtyard separates the two picturesque early 19th-century buildings that house this cosy B&B. The main house, with six rooms, opens to a sunny screened porch. Both houses have parlors with TVs and VCRs. The Pembroke Room is best with its whirlpool and screened-in hut, but others are also tastefully decorated. www.mansionbandb.com
ST. PETERSBURG The Heritage Holiday Inn
234 3rd Ave N, 33701 Tel (727) 822-4814 Fax (727) 823-1644 Rooms 71
One of the few Holiday Inns with a unique identity, the Heritage dates from the early 1920s. Though it has been renovated, it still maintains an old-fashioned ambience with creaky hardwood floors, French doors, and a tropical courtyard. This place has none of the blandness that usually characterizes chain hotels. www.holidayinn.com
ST. PETERSBURG Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club
501 5th Ave NE, 33701 Tel (727) 894-1000 Fax (727) 822-2785 Rooms 360
Within walking distance of The Pier and Central Avenue, this Meditteranean-style resort is one of the most upmarket stays in the area. The rooms have fantastic bay views and TVs in the bathroom. Marchand’s Grill restaurant is wonderfully elegant, and the 18-hole golf course is a major draw. www.marriott.com
ST. PETERSBURG BEACH Beach Haven
4980 Gulf Blvd, 33706 Tel (727) 367-8642 Fax (727) 360-8202 Rooms 18
This cheerful, 1950s-style beach motel is excellent value. There are 12 one-bedroom units with kitchens. The best among them has sliding glass doors that open to the outdoor heated pool. You could also opt for one of the five standard motel rooms or the only two-bedroom unit. The beach and views are fantastic. www.beachhavenvillas.com
ST. PETERSBURG BEACH Don CeSar Resort and Spa
3400 Gulf Blvd, 33706 Tel (727) 360-1881 Fax (727) 367-6952 Rooms 277
A local landmark, this palatial pink hotel has oodles of old-world charm. With a seemingly endless beachfront, it boasts a lobby with high windows, crystal chandeliers, and marble floors. There is a lovely pool deck and tropical gardens. Request a room with a view. A fabulous program for kids is also on offer. www.doncesar.com
ST. PETERSBURG BEACH Tradewinds Island Grand Resort
5500 Gulf Blvd, 33706 Tel (727) 367-6461 Fax (727) 363-2222 Rooms 585
Deceptively severe-looking from the outside, this resort is fantastic once you explore the walkways, patios, and lily ponds. Units either look out onto the Gulf or the grounds. Though popular with families, there is a pool just for adults. The beachside bar floats on a lily pond which makes for a very romantic cocktail hour. www.justletgo.com
TAMPA Best Western All Suites Hotel
3001 University Center Drive, 33612 Tel (813) 971-8930 Fax (813) 971-8935 Rooms 150
Best known as “That Parrot Place” because it is so close to Busch Gardens, the joke is that the parrots escape to this hotel. Families find this place convenient with its well-equipped suites with bunk beds for the kids. The hotel comes complete with a tiki bar, large pool, and hot tub. Stay here if you plan to explore Busch Gardens. www.bestwesternflorida.com
TAMPA Hilton Garden Inn
1700 E 9th Ave, 33602 Tel (813) 769-9267 Fax (813) 769-3299 Rooms 95
The best part about this Hilton is that it is within stumbling distance of all Ybor City’s bars and clubs. Rooms are standard Hilton rooms. Students, business travelers, and those on a budget are attracted to the hotel for its consistent standards. The excellent location is what really makes this place stand out. www.hiltongardeninn.com
TAMPA Hyatt Regency Tampa
2 Tampa City Center, 33602 Tel (813) 225-1234 Fax (813) 273-0234 Rooms 521
Right next to the Franklin Street pedestrian mall, the Hyatt is one of downtown’s most popular hotels, attracting business travelers, as well as those who would rather play downtown than at Busch Gardens. The rooms are not particularly special, but comfortable and well worth it for the central location. www.tamparegency.hyatt.com
TAMPA Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina
700 S Florida Ave, 33602 Tel (813) 221-4900 Fax (813) 221-0923 Rooms 719
An imposing highrise near the burgeoning Channel District, this luxury hotel opens onto a riverfront promenade. Half the rooms have balconies overlooking the bay or the city. There is also a marina for boaters. There is a fully-equipped spa and outdoor heated pool, as well as incredible views. www.marriott.com
TAMPA Tampa Riverwalk Hotel
200 N Ashley Drive, 33602 Tel (813) 223-2222 Fax (813) 221-5929 Rooms 282
On the east bank of the Hillsborough River, this six-story hotel is a reliable downtown spot with moderately-sized rooms. The Ashley Drive Grill serves casual breakfasts and lunches, and offers fine dining at night. Once a Radisson hotel, you can still expect chain hotel-type amenities, which are good value. www.starwoodhotels.com
TAMPA Westin Harbour Island
725 S Harbour Island Blvd, 33602 Tel (813) 229-5000 Fax (813) 229-5322 Rooms 299
Standing on its own island, this hotel is very close to downtown. Rooms overlook the harbor, and are very cosy with their pillow-top mattresses. The hotel’s Italian waterfront restaurant serves great food. The Harbour Island Athletic Club has workout facilities, tennis courts, and a full-service spa. www.starwoodhotels.com
VENICE Horse & Chaise Inn
317 Ponce de Leon Ave, 34285 Tel (941) 488-2702 Rooms 9
The inn was built in 1927 and is in a quiet neighborhood of Venice just 10 minutes from the beach. Period details include the stucco relief trim on the front door and an original fireplace in the living room. Each room has a different historical theme and comfy, pillow-top beds. www.horseandchaiseinn.com
WESLEY CHAPEL Saddlebrook Resort
5700 Saddlebrook Way, 33543 Tel (813) 973-1111 Fax (813) 973-4504 Rooms 800
Though Tampa is only a 30-minute drive away, Saddlebrooks seems worlds apart from it. Set on 480 acres of rambling countryside, it offers superb spas, tennis, and golf courses, and an excellent kids’ club, not to mention man made lagoons. You can stay in spacious rooms or in one- or two-bedroom condos. www.saddlebrookresort.com
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