Nicknamed the Sunshine City, St. Petersburg, Florida, hugs the Tampa Bay and Gulf of Mexico coastline. The Northwest Florida city is famed for its arts & culture scene and its proximity to the state’s finest beaches. If you’re visiting for the first time though, figuring out where to stay in St. Petersburg, FL, can be overwhelming.
Saint Petersburg is jammed with interesting areas, neighborhoods, and beach towns ringing its coastline. Choosing between the best hotels in St. Petersburg, FL, depends on what you plan to do on your vacation. Whether you want to soak up museums in Downtown Saint Petersburg or enjoy the sea breeze at a luxury resort in St. Pete Beach, you’ll find lodgings to suit your style.
Ready to find the perfect St. Petersburg accommodations? Narrow down to your search with this guide to the best places to stay in St. Petersburg, FL.
Looking for more ideas for your trip? Check out our other hotel & accommodations guides and our Florida Travel Guide for recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do!
Best places to stay in St. Petersburg, FL
Like most vacation spots, the best St. Petersburg hotels are scattered around the region, close to popular tourist destinations. From Tampa Bay to Clearwater Beach, you’ll find thriving areas, neighborhoods, and districts with limitless accommodation options. Wherever you stay, you’ll enjoy fantastic restaurants and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
If you love beaches and water sports, save yourself a spot on St. Pete Beach. Set on a barrier island to the east of the Saint Petersburg city center, this beach town is one of the most popular places to chill out on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Or if nightlife and retail therapy are your jam, set your compass for Downtown Saint Petersburg. The waterfront city center is home to many of the city’s top hotels, museums, and art galleries.
For family-friendly fun, venture over to Treasure Island. With its powdery white beaches and a location that’s an easy drive to Florida’s theme parks, it’s a favorite for travelers.
Not far away from Treasure Island, Madeira Beach is another popular Gulf Coast choice for tourists. It’s a great base if you’re planning to visit John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk and their delish seafood festival. (Or if you want to squeeze in a day or two of deep-sea fishing.)
The best areas to stay in St. Petersburg, FL, are:
St. Pete Beach
✓ Best area to stay in St. Petersburg for beach lovers
For a Florida beach vacation, there’s no better spot around Saint Petersburg than St. Pete Beach. Home to award-winning beaches and a huge variety of water sports, there’s something for everyone to do in this beach town.
The shops and galleries in St. Pete Beach are snazzy and unique. If you venture down to Pass-a-Grille Beach, one of the top tourist attractions in St. Pete Beach, you’ll love the gorgeous boutiques and seafood spots—and the bars, too! While you’re there, you can take a boat tour to Shell Key or drop by Gulf Beaches Historical Museum for a peek at old memorabilia.
St. Pete Beach also offers visitors a wide range of quality accommodation options, making it the best area to stay in St. Petersburg, FL.
Recommended hotels in St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Suites
St. Pete Beach Suites is a gorgeous beachfront property that delights guests with its retro and vintage vibe. The hotel is located just seconds from the beach and within walking distance of popular tourist spots and eateries. The spacious suites offer ideal accommodation with a home-away-from-home feel and superb amenities. Book their Family Suite, or go for the Poolside Studio Suite that’s perfect for two.
Plaza Beach Hotel Beachfront Resort
Named the Best Hotel on St. Pete Beach, the Plaza Beach Hotel Beachfront Resort is a fantastic boutique resort. The hotel features 39 exclusive suites packed with amenities. You’ll enjoy facilities like a heated pool overlooking the sea, private beach access, and free hammocks. For more adventures, there’s para-sailing, jet skiing, and other water sports close by.
Inn on the Beach
Located in Pass-A-Grille, Inn on the Beach will charm you with its beautifully appointed beach-inspired rooms, open-plan apartments, and laid-back atmosphere. You can step right out to the beach from your room, feast on seafood from the wharf, or check out the nightlife happening a stone’s throw away.
Hilton Garden Inn St. Pete Beach
Just 20 minutes from Downtown St. Petersburg and right on a white sandy beach, the Hilton Garden Inn offers luxurious rooms with stunning views. Besides an outdoor swimming pool and fitness center, guests can sip on cocktails and enjoy a romantic dinner at sunset at the on-site bar & grill.
Downtown Saint Petersburg
✓ Best neighborhood to stay in St. Petersburg for arts & culture
Downtown Saint Petersburg is the heart and soul of the city. Named “One of the Best Street Art Cities in the World,” St. Petersburg’s city center bursts with color and creativity. It’s one of the coolest places to go in Saint Petersburg, FL, if you’re a budding artist looking for inspiration or a lover of the arts.
Spend your morning at the Waterfront Arts District, boasting the famous Dali Museum. Later on, stop for lunch at one of the classy artsy restaurants before dropping by Tropicana Field for a baseball game.
For an afternoon adventure, the Saint Petersburg Pier is the perfect spot. Stroll along this pretty landmark, extending into Tampa Bay. Pick up a memento from one of the area’s many boutique shops to add to your travel journal.
Recommended hotels in Downtown Saint Petersburg
Hollander Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg
Located in the heart of Downtown Saint Petersburg, Hollander Hotel is a short distance from several local attractions. The beautiful Hollander boutique hotel features eclectic decor. Its well-appointed rooms are packed with luxurious amenities. Soak up the sun on their 130-foot open terrace or grab your favorite drink from the poolside bar. You can also relax with a treatment at the full-service spa. For dinner, feast on a juicy steak at The Tap Room restaurant located on-site.
Hampton Inn & Suites St. Petersburg/Downtown
A block away from Tampa Bay and within walking distance of The Dali, the Hampton Inn & Suites in St. Petersburg offers guests understated elegance in every beautifully appointed room. Enjoy the daily complimentary hot breakfast during your stay and make use of their fully-equipped fitness center. The outdoor pool is perfect for an afternoon dip.
Hyatt Place St. Petersburg/Downtown
With rooms thoughtfully designed around guest needs, the Hyatt Place is perfect for a relaxing Saint Petersburg stay—be it for business or pleasure. Each room at this 3-star hotel is styled in true Hyatt excellence. They offer every comfort with a range of amenities. Enjoy some downtime at the outdoor pool, and get your work needs met in their business center. A complimentary buffet & continental breakfast is included in every package.
Treasure Island
✓ Best place to stay in St. Petersburg for families
Originally named for “discovered” treasure chests, Treasure Island in St. Petersburg is the perfect base for visitors looking for beach activities like shelling, parasailing, and snorkeling.
Treasure Island is famous for its “world’s longest waterfront bar” at the Gators Cafe & Saloon and, of course, Sunset Beach. Located right on the southern tip of Treasure Island, Sunset Beach is one of the finest beaches around Clearwater & Saint Petersburg. It draws a great mix of people and has a welcoming live and let-live vibe. As the name implies, the sunsets are pretty awesome, too!
Boasting rest, relaxation, and fun in the sun, Treasure Island offers visitors a wide range of accommodations from luxury to mid-range. It’s a great choice for families thanks to its range of lodgings and family-friendly amenities.
Recommended hotels in Treasure Island
The Bungalows
At The Bungalows, you’ll find spacious one and two-bedroom units perfect for a family or a small group. Each unit includes a fully stocked kitchen and a wide range of amenities. You can soak up some sun by their heated outdoor pool or visit nearby tourist spots. Step out onto the beach, or enjoy a picnic in their tranquil grounds.
Blue Waters Treasure Island
Just a few steps from Sunset Beach, Blue Waters Treasure Island offers guests a relaxing stay. Travelers will enjoy spacious rooms with fully equipped kitchens. The popular hotel also features a heated outdoor pool, and impressive grounds ready for BBQs and picnics. Ask for their Express or Private check-in/check-out to save you time.
Treasure Island Beach Resort
From breathtaking views to elegant & luxurious suites, Treasure Island Beach Resort is a vacationer’s paradise. Staying at this luxury resort, you’ll enjoy a range of delightful amenities. The menu at the beachfront accommodation includes in-room dining, an outdoor pool & sundeck, and a poolside food & beverage service. You’ll also get to sweat off some mojitos at the fully-equipped fitness center.
Madeira Beach
✓ Top area in St. Petersburg for quieter beach town vibes
Rated among the Top Ten Beaches in the United States, Madeira Beach is a white-sand haven for sun-worshippers. Those looking for a quieter vacationing spot will love the low-key beach town vibes and laid-back lifestyle.
Madeira Beach (or Mad Beach as it’s known locally) is famous for its 1,100-foot John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk. At the boardwalk, you can stroll around, browsing through unique retail stores and quaint eateries. Bird watching and dolphin watching are popular among locals and visitors alike. Keep your camera ready!
There are a decent number of resorts at Madeira Beach. You’ll also find regular vacation rentals and beautiful beachfront hotels. Finding the right accommodation isn’t too difficult if you know where to look. You can enjoy a relaxing stay just about anywhere.
Recommended hotels in Madeira Beach
Barefoot Beach Club
Located a five-minute walk from John’s Pass Village, the Barefoot Beach Club is one of the most popular hotels in Madeira Beach. Book a Beachfront Studio or a Tropical Poolside to enjoy an array of amenities, including two pools, a heated spa, and cabanas. A private beach is steps away. You’ll also drool over several fabulous restaurants right around the corner.
Cambria Hotel St. Petersburg Madeira Beach Marina
With a rooftop pool and jacuzzi, and stunning views of the Gulf Coast, the Cambria Hotel is another top choice for visitors. Enjoy a stylishly designed and well-appointed room with views through floor-to-ceiling windows and great service. A ton of popular attractions are within walking distance of the hotel.
Shoreline Island Resort
For a perfect romantic getaway, Shoreline Island Resort is your best bet. This adults-only (21+) resort offers beautifully appointed rooms with spectacular Gulf views. You’ll also enjoy plenty of leisure amenities and access to tons of cool nearby attractions. Upgrade to the Sunset Penthouse Suite and enjoy the luxury of your own private balcony, cozy love-seats, and stunning sunsets.
North Redington Beach
✓ Top-rated district to stay in Saint Petersburg for a local beach town experience
Located between Clearwater Beach and Saint Petersburg, North Redington Beach is a small Gulf Coast beach town. A little off the beaten path, the town charms with its friendly vibe. The relaxing pace combined with its mile-long beach makes it a perfect place for family fun and leisure and a great choice when figuring out where to stay in St. Petersburg, FL.
Start your day watching the sunrise at Boca Ciega Bay, and enjoy a morning of idyllic shelling along Redington Beach. The best attractions are not far off and are easily accessible.
North Redington Beach is also the closest area in Saint Petersburg to Clearwater Beach. Located 30 minutes north via Indian Shores, Clearwater Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. There’s plenty to do around Clearwater, including lazing on its white-sand beach and taking in a fun sunset celebration at Pier 60.
Accommodation for vacationers in North Redington Beach is plentiful. Most vary between mid-range and luxury prices.
Recommended hotels in North Redington Beach
Malibu Resort Motel
Directly across from the beach, the delightful Malibu Resort Motel charms you with its retro vibe and classic mom & pop service. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. Property amenities include a heated pool, an on-site restaurant, and easy beach access. You won’t be too far from Clearwater and St. Pete Beach.
Island House Resort Hotel
Nestled between St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach is the Island House Resort Hotel. Mid-range travelers will get a ton of value at this property. You’ll enjoy plenty of great amenities here for a reasonable price. The rooms are super comfortable, and the service is wonderful. The quaint feel of the sleepy beach town lets you sit back and enjoy some real R&R.
DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton Tampa Bay North Redington Beach
Sitting on the beautiful shores of North Redington Beach, the DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton will sweep you off your feet. Steeped in luxury, this beachfront oasis features comfortable, plush guest rooms with stunning views. You’ll also love the efficient room service, luxurious outdoor pool, and direct access to the beach. You can enjoy Lump Blue Crab Cakes and other delicious fare at their indoor/outdoor restaurant with a view.
