Hotels in or around Clearwater Beach?

[Pooh's Pal]

Just wondering if anyone has any suggestions for hotels in or on or around Clearwater Beach? We are thinking of arriving a day or two earlier than planned to go to the Unniversity of Southern Florida in Tampa for a "college visit" and my 2 girls would like to go there and take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico! Is Clearwater the closest beach to Tampa?
Any suggestions for a decent hotel that won't cost a fortune for one night on a beach, before we head back to Orlando? Thanks in advance for any info you can provide!

 

[Mom+4]

I've been looking for a good place to stay around there also. So far, the best deal I can find is the Howard Johnson Express in Clearwater Beach for $63.20 per night in June. I've never stayed there, but it is on the beach, has a free breakfast, and gets 3 stars from AAA. I think we're going to try it, unless I hear any bad reviews. Hope this helps.

 

[winterman]

We have been to both Clearwater and St. Pete Beach. I know that you will find a greater and better selections of hotels and restaurants at St. Pete beach. Cost wise St. Pete is a better option. The distance to Tampa is about 1/2 hour drive.

 

[Pooh's Pal]

Thanks for the advice..will check out the Howard Johnson's!
Mom+4: When are you going to be there? We should be in Tampa area around the 25th & 26th before heading to Universal.
Thanks winterman..I'll check out St. Pete also...Just picked up a Fodors guide at Borders tonight...will check it out.

Anyone else?

 

[Mom+4]

Pooh's Pal,

We won't be there until June. By the way, when I called to make our ressie, the rate at Howard Johnson's was $63.20 for Friday and Saturday, and $58 for the rest of our stay - a total of $360 (before taxes) for six nights. On the beach and with free breakfast, as long as it's clean, I think it should be fine for us.

Good luck to your family.

Mom + 4