We wanted to take the kids away for a Spring vacation, but couldn’t decide between a few days at Disney World, or staying at a beach property. After a little research we landed on heading to Clearwater, FL for a beach trip, and thought we’d maybe do a day trip to Disney if we could swing a last minute park reservation.
HYATT REGENCY
We stayed in a one bedroom suite we were able to book with Hyatt points (earned with our Chase card). The suite had two queen beds in a separate room and then we brought our pack n play for the baby.
The suite had a full kitchen with an open family room space for the kids to play. This worked out so well for getting everyone to sleep and then we were able to have lunch up in the room and even made the kids mac and cheese a few times for dinner. There were two bathrooms which was also amazing. One even had a tub which is always a positive when traveling with kids!
Be sure to make your way to the rooftop deck at least once to watch the stunning sunset views!
FOOD
The food on site was phenomenal. Tropico, which is their pool side restaurant, has amazing food and the service was always top notch. You can even order on the Hyatt app right on your phone and it’s delivered to your chair (or room) quickly!
There were also smaller pizza and ice cream shops a few minute walk from the hotel. This was great having small kids, because we were able to pick up pizza a few nights, and even sat down by the beach to eat a few times. There are also many other restaurant choices along the same strip as the hotel.
POOL
We spent many days at the pool, which is located on the 8th floor. There’s one main rectangular pool, lined with pergolas and pool chairs, as well as a few private cabana rentals. The hotel website mentioned a separate gated kid pool, but our kids preferred the larger main pool. There is also a small outdoor game section with Connect-4 and large Jenga sets. Keep an eye out for complimentary snow cones in the afternoon!
Beach access
The beach is gorgeous. Fine sand and blue waters, and directly across the street from the hotel! Our room came with an umbrella and chair rental, which you reserve once getting down to the beach. They do offer beach wagon rentals if you have lots of gear (which I recommend over trying to bring a stroller across the sand). The beach is located down an elevator, across the street, so be sure to plan ahead.
PLANNING TIPS
We booked during an extremely popular April vacation week, so be prepared for crowds if you plan to visit during this time. The beach was packed cabana after cabana- you couldn’t see the water if you weren’t in the front row. However food and service still remained top notch at the resort!
Be prepared to travel between the 2nd floor of the hotel (where the restaurant/market/and beach access is) and the 8th floor where the pool is located. If you have small kids (age 5 and under), it can feel like a lot of walking. However the price for the location is great, especially with beach access! Just be prepared for some crowded spaces if you’re visiting during popular vacation weeks.