John R.
Yelp
When I was very little I grew up on Clearwater Beach, living a short distance from this hotel, then known (I think) as the Gulf View Apartments. I would have figured this long-time beach fixture would have been demolished long ago to build some other high-rise hotel or condo, but I'm happy to see it's still there. And it's delightful.
The entire hotel has been recently updated, but without losing its charm. The room we had was a bit smaller than rooms in some more modern hotels, but it was very comfortable and attractive. The bed was extremely comfortable, as were the pillows. The view from our 3rd floor window was of the Palm Pavilion restaurant next door, but also the expanse of beach south to the pier. There is an outdoor pool next to the hotel which was very tidy, but unused while we were there (presumably since most guests were on the beach); there is also an observation (and suntanning) deck on the 4th floor, which provides an even better view of the beach. The beach, which is much, much larger than when I was a child, is just a few steps away and remains one of the finest beaches in the country. (There were plenty of rental chairs & umbrellas for those without their own.) The hotel provides towels for use on either the beach or at the pool.
Since the hotel is older, there is no elevator, but we were helped with our luggage by the staff member at the front desk. Every employee we encountered was very friendly, and seemed genuinely interested in making our stay a happy one.
The Palm Pavilion Beachside Bar & Grill is right next door, so it's extremely convenient, and has some tasty selections. There's a DQ next door, as well. There is a parking lot next to the hotel, as well, and parking is free for hotel guests.
Everything considered, this was a great hotel for our 4-day stay on Clearwater Beach; we plan on returning when we can.