St. Pete's beach Tradewinds Grand or Sandpiper?

[bluenosemickey]

We're going to put a 3 night weekend at St. Pete's beach this summer in the middle of our Disney trip. I think I've narrowed our choice of resort to either of the Tradewinds properties right on the beach. The Grand is just that, big with lots of stuff to do. The Sandpiper is actually listed as the #1 beachfront resort. It appears to be smaller and more intimate compared to the grand. You can still use the facilities at the grand though.

Any suggestions from anyone having been there? You get so spoiled going to Disney with the DIS to tell you every little detail about each property at Disney. I can't stand going in blind!

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[kamcgrory]

I would also like some information on these resorts. We have a 2 bedroom gulf front suite reserved for our family of 6 at the end of May for 3 nights at the Island Grand. We chose since there seems to be a lot of things for all ages to do and is right on the beach. I did read some reviews (some good, some bad). Hope there are some of you out there that have stayed here that can give us some tips/tricks or reviews. TIA!!

 

[kamcgrory]

bump

 

[auntmeme7577]

I've stayed at the tradewinds many times. It's a great resort with lots of ammenities. The Tradewinds bought the sandpiper which is 2 or 3 down from the trade winds. Both are on the same beautiful beachfront. In between is the Alden and a condo, can't recall the name. The sandpiper trade winds has rooms that are a bit cheaper, small balconies, really small. I never stayed at the sandpiper, just the original. We now stay at the Alden which is an older prperty at about half the price. We love it

 

[dkhurley]

From the one time I stayed at Tradewinds, it was Grand. Very nice place and lots to do. I'd say stay there if you want to be right near everything. I remember walking right out of our room and being next to the pool and seeing the beach. There was plenty to do, for a hotel that is.

 

[Ksquared]

I also stayed at the Tradwinds for about 4 nights for a wedding. We had an awesome time at the resort. It was a great location, nice pools, beach was nice. Perfect for kids and adults alike. Plenty of places to eat in area and cute bars on property. We were going to return there the following year but decided to go to Cinnamon Beach (Palm Coast) instead.

 

[kamcgrory]

Does anyone happen to have any personal photos? We were also thinking of upgrading our 2 bedroom suite to a 3 bedroom. Has anyone ever done this? What kind of activities did your family participate in, and how did you like them? I'm really trying to get a clear picture of what to expect and how much it will cost us since I know most of the "extras" cost extra.