Escape to the Sunshine State

The Sunny Vibes of Clearwater Beach

Much has been said about Florida’s fascination to older folks who love to escape to the Sunshine State during the winter months. But that story is only partially true, since Florida appeals to visitors of all ages, particularly active young adults who love the outdoors. Clearwater Beach, located west of Tampa, is especially alluring, given that Trip Advisor named it the nation’s #1 beach in America and the #7 beach in the world in 2018. Although travelers have enjoyed Clearwater’s talcum white sand beaches long before that well-deserved honor, the designation has caused quite a buzz in the world of tourism. A part of the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metropolitan area, this region offers everything vacationers need: Great restaurants, fabulous entertainment and a wide range of recreation options to keep everyone, from toddles to seniors, thoroughly amused.

Clearwater’s small-town atmosphere, combined with its average midsummer highs in the 90s and winter lows in the 70s, is a big draw for outdoor lovers. Deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater Jazz Festival and the Dali Museum are among the most popular attractions for tourists, while foodies are lured to the amazing eateries in town. Animal-lovers appreciate the area because of its abundant wildlife presence. Alligators, manatees and dolphins can sometimes be spotted on a kayak excursion while deer and exotic birds are often seen while hiking on nearby trails.

Water sports lovers will want to park themselves in a seaside hotel to take advantage of its immediate access to the assortment of activities. Opal Sands Resort, close to boat and jet ski rentals, parasailing and paddle-boarding, features 230 Gulf-front rooms adorned in ocean-hued colors and contemporary design. The property’s architecture, its curved exterior lined with reflective glass windows, is the first hint of the resort’s stylish character. The rounded lobby resembles a contemporary museum with a circular motif that peeks through every design component, from the floors to the walls and lighting fixtures.

The entire resort is laced with artwork directed by Christopher Stills. Guestrooms are polished and serene and carry the ocean tones theme across the décor and furnishings. The expansive balconies open to a dramatic panorama of Clearwater’s classic beach vibe and invites travelers to relax and watch the sailboats and swimmers below. The pool off the lobby is steps away from the beach and offers live entertainment as well as poolside food and beverage service provided by the PoolBar. Sandbar, the beachside tiki bar, extends the tropical concept and is a convenient spot to find refreshments any time of the day.

In addition to the outdoor aquatic adventures, guests can also access the fitness center, which boasts magnificent Gulf-views, designed to keep the mind occupied while the body is busy burning calories. Just in case those calories need to be restored, a convenient space in the hallway on each floor offers complimentary fruit, beverages, and cookies to all hotel guests.

But try not to fill up on all those yummy munchies because meals at Sea-Guini are not to be missed. The restaurant is ornamented with oceanic art pieces and more spectacular Gulf-views, and the mouthwatering menu features the freshest local seafood. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Sea Guini has a large brick pizza oven and a homemade pasta making station, which is where the delectable pizza and pasta concoctions featured on the menu are created. Other entrees, such as pan-seared hogfish, grilled cobia and Gulf Coast cioppino are both delicious and artfully served.

Opal Sands Resort features a full-service luxury spa with an extensive service menu to promote a balanced body, mind and spirit. Body treatments such as the 80-minute detox, and healing massage therapies help to rejuvenate the senses and encourage wellness. Luxurious facials range from the custom to the signature to help improve the skin’s natural luminosity.

Boardwalk access to Pier 60 is easy so Opal Sands guests can peruse to where sunsets are celebrated with music, street performers, arts and crafts vendors and special events daily at sundown.

A rental vehicle is not required thanks to affordable Clearwater Beach trolley options. The Jolley Trolley offers a coastal route service seven days a week to Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor and Tarpon Springs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The Beach Trolley services all of the beaches from Clearwater to Pass-a-Grille, located at the south end of St. Pete Beach. The St. Petersburg Trolley travels into the downtown areas for guests who want to shop, dine and explore the city’s landmarks.

Whether by foot, trolley or rental car, Clearwater Beach, Florida promises to fulfill a beach lover’s ideal vacation on every level. Just be sure to add it to a destination-must list and the location will carry the thrill of the visit from there.

Opal Sands Resort
430 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
727.450.0380


Expedia.com

The Sunny Vibes of Clearwater Beach, Florida

By Monique Reidy

For more information:

Opal Sands Resort
430 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
727.450.0380
www.opalsands.com

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