Tampa hotels

Ever since it opened in late 2020, this stylish stay in the buzzing Water Street Tampa district has made a name for itself as one of the best hotels in Tampa. I’ve loved watching the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street unveil new openings over recent years.

Their latest offering is Tampa’s highest rooftop bar, Beacon, located on the hotel’s 27th floor. It’s my favourite perch in the city for sipping a spicy margarita and sharing a charcuterie tower with friends, all while overlooking the city and water views.

Rooms are minimalist and sleek, with luxurious linens and large windows that take in views of Harbour Island across the riverfront. This hotel also has my favourite wellness escape, the Spa by JW, with a rooftop whirlpool and ten treatment rooms. Plan at least one meal at the ground floor Driftlight Steakhouse, with French brasserie vibes and dishes like gulf shrimp cocktail and wagyu carpaccio.

Keep reading for proof that a hotel stay near a mid-size city’s airport doesn’t have to lack style and substance. The AC Hotel by Marriott Tampa Airport is less than five kilometres from Tampa’s friendly international airport (my favourite in the whole US).

You can easily walk to nearby restaurants like Cooper’s Hawk, and it’s also ideally located for jumping on the Courtney Campbell Causeway to make the 34 km jaunt west to Clearwater Beach. You’ll also find complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, making this one of the best hotels in Tampa for convenience.

Among other great amenities here you’ll find an outdoor pool that stays open late (till 11pm every day of the week), a modern gym with ellipticals, treadmills and free weights, and the lively AC Lounge, a fun spot to gather before going out that serves up cocktails and tapas.