Opal Sands Resort, Clearwater Beach
Every balcony on the Gulf
★★★★★📍 Clearwater Beach (minutes from the aquarium)$$$$
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Best rate guaranteed · free cancellation on most rooms
The aquarium day writes itself: breakfast on the balcony, a short drive or trolley ride to Clearwater Marine Aquarium for the morning dolphin and sea lion sessions, then back for an afternoon at the pool and sunset on the sand. Tampa's Florida Aquarium is under an hour away for a second aquarium day.
Room strategy: every room faces the Gulf, so choose by space — suites suit families, and higher floors give the widest views. Book spa treatments and poolside cabanas ahead in high season.
Practicals: Tampa International Airport is about 35 minutes away and St. Pete-Clearwater International about 25 minutes. Parking is valet in an indoor garage, a blessing in summer heat; check the current resort fee and parking rates when booking. Opal Sands belongs to the OPAL Collection of resorts, and its event lawn and indoor-outdoor event space make it a popular beach wedding venue, so some weekends are busier than others. Pair the stay with Clearwater Marine Aquarium and The Florida Aquarium for the full Tampa Bay aquarium circuit.
Amenities
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Check rates →Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Clearwater Marine Aquarium?
A few minutes by car or beach trolley — the aquarium is on Island Estates, just across the water from Clearwater Beach.
Do all rooms face the Gulf?
Yes — all 230 rooms and suites are oceanfront with private balconies overlooking the Gulf; the curved tower was designed so that every room gets the view, and higher floors see the widest stretch of beach.
Which airport is closest?
St. Pete-Clearwater International is about 25 minutes away; Tampa International is about 35 minutes.
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