Choosing the best area to stay in Tampa Bay, FL, depends on your travel plans, whether you’re visiting for beaches, nightlife, sports, or family attractions. This vibrant city offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm.
Downtown Tampa is perfect for those who want to be close to major attractions like the Tampa Riverwalk and Amalie Arena, while Ybor City is ideal for history lovers and nightlife enthusiasts. If you’re looking for beachfront relaxation, Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach offer stunning Gulf Coast views.
Westshore is great for business travelers with its proximity to Tampa International Airport and upscale shopping. No matter your travel style, Tampa Bay has the perfect place to stay. In this guide, we’ll explore the five best areas to stay in Tampa Bay, helping you find the ideal location for your visit.
Downtown Tampa – The Heart of the City
Downtown Tampa is the perfect area for travelers who want to be close to the city’s top attractions, nightlife, and waterfront views. This vibrant district is home to the Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic path lined with parks, restaurants, and entertainment.
Visitors can explore The Florida Aquarium, Amalie Arena (home of the Tampa Bay Lightning), and Sparkman Wharf, offering trendy dining and outdoor activities. The area is also great for families, with Glazer Children’s Museum and the Tampa Bay History Center nearby. Downtown offers a mix of luxury and business-friendly hotels, including JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, known for its upscale amenities, Tampa Marriott Water Street, featuring waterfront views, and Hotel Tampa Riverwalk, offering budget-friendly stays.
With its central location, walkability, and easy access to major attractions, Downtown Tampa is an excellent choice for first-time visitors, business travelers, and those who love urban excitement.
Ybor City – Tampa’s Historic and Lively District
For travelers seeking history, culture, and nightlife, Ybor City is one of the most exciting areas to stay in Tampa. Known as Tampa’s Latin Quarter, this historic district is famous for its cigar-making heritage, vibrant nightlife, and unique architecture.
Visitors can explore Centro Ybor, the Ybor City State Museum, and the historic Columbia Restaurant, the oldest Spanish restaurant in Florida. At night, Ybor City transforms into a lively hotspot with bars, clubs, and live music venues, making it perfect for those who love nightlife. The TECO Streetcar provides easy access to Downtown Tampa and Channelside.
Some of the best hotels in Ybor City include Hotel Haya, a stylish boutique hotel with Cuban-inspired decor, Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa/Ybor City, offering modern comforts and free breakfast, and Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District, known for its central location. Ybor City is ideal for history buffs, food lovers, and nightlife enthusiasts.
Westshore – The Best Area for Business and Shopping
Westshore is Tampa’s premier business and shopping district, making it an excellent choice for business travelers, upscale shoppers, and visitors needing quick airport access. Located just minutes from Tampa International Airport, this area is home to WestShore Plaza and International Plaza & Bay Street, two of the city’s best shopping destinations filled with designer stores, fine dining, and entertainment.
Sports fans will appreciate its proximity to Raymond James Stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The area also offers easy access to Downtown Tampa, the beaches, and major highways.
Some of the best hotels in Westshore include Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, featuring stunning waterfront views, Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel, known for its stylish design and proximity to shopping, and Tampa Airport Marriott, offering convenience for travelers.
Clearwater Beach – The Ultimate Beachfront Getaway
For travelers looking for white sandy beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and a laid-back coastal vibe, Clearwater Beach is one of the best areas to stay in Tampa Bay. This award-winning beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy Pier 60’s nightly sunset celebrations, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (home of Winter the dolphin), and exciting water activities like jet skiing, dolphin tours, and parasailing. The beach is lined with oceanfront restaurants, tiki bars, and boutique shops, creating the perfect beach vacation experience.
Some of the best hotels in Clearwater Beach include Sandpearl Resort, a luxury beachfront retreat with a spa, Opal Sands Resort, offering modern rooms with Gulf views, and Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, known for its prime location and resort-style amenities.
North Tampa – The Best Area for Family Fun
North Tampa is the perfect area for travelers looking for family-friendly attractions, outdoor activities, and a quieter stay away from the city center. This area is home to some of Tampa’s top attractions, including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, an exciting theme park with roller coasters and animal exhibits, and Adventure Island, a fun-filled water park.
Nature lovers can explore Lettuce Lake Park for kayaking and scenic trails, while sports fans can visit Yuengling Center for concerts and events. North Tampa offers affordable and mid-range hotels with easy access to both downtown and the beaches.
Some of the best hotels in North Tampa include Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa USF, featuring spacious suites and a free breakfast, Hyatt Place Tampa/Busch Gardens, perfect for families, and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa USF, offering great amenities near major attractions. Ideal for families and adventure seekers, North Tampa is a great base for exploring Tampa Bay.
