When searching for the best hotel in Clearwater, you may find yourself torn between two options: Sandpearl and Opal Sands. Both properties offer unique features that cater to different preferences. In this article, we will compare the two hotels to help you make an informed decision. From the impressive building designs to the accommodations, grounds, beach, restaurants, and overall location, we will provide a comprehensive overview of each property. Whether you prioritize modern aesthetics or classic elegance, functional comfort or breathtaking views, we’ll help you determine which hotel suits your needs and preferences. So, let’s dive into the details and find out which hotel comes out on top in this exciting matchup between Sandpearl and Opal Sands!
Building and First Impressions
Opal Sands
The Opal Sands resort is the newer of the two properties, and it undeniably has a sleeker and more modern-looking building. When you enter the circle drive to the resort, you will notice that it is on a slight incline, which gives it a sense of tightness and a slightly chaotic feel. However, the circle drive is still functional and large enough for its purpose. As you step into the building, you will be greeted with a wow factor. The decor is sleek, trendy, and modern, creating an immediate sense of luxury and sophistication.
Sandpearl
On the other hand, the Sandpearl resort, which opened in 2007, has a more classic style of building. It is situated on a corner, allowing for a surprisingly large and comfortable circle drive. While the Sandpearl may not have the same level of wow factor as the Opal Sands, its classic style and understated decor exude elegance and charm. If you prefer a more traditional aesthetic, the Sandpearl will appeal to you.
In terms of first impressions, both properties have their own unique charm. The Opal Sands impresses with its sleek and modern design, while the Sandpearl exudes elegance and sophistication. Ultimately, the choice will come down to personal preference and what you value in a hotel building.
Accommodations
Opal Sands
When it comes to accommodations, it’s important to note that in both cases, we did not have standard room accommodations, but rather suites. However, both suites were of a similar class and very close in price, making it a fair comparison.
The suite at the Opal Sands was truly amazing, with a look and feel of something special. It featured a kitchenette with two cooktop burners, a microwave, and a full fridge. While it may not have had an oven, the suite made up for it with its impressive views from a corner room. The bedroom and bathroom were both spacious, and there was even an additional half bath. Moreover, all 230 rooms at the Opal Sands have stunning views of the Gulf, which adds to the overall appeal.
Sandpearl
At the Sandpearl, we stayed in a one-bedroom city view suite, which was essentially a condo-style villa. The suite included a full kitchen, a standard living room, and a bedroom. While the room was very nice and had beautiful views of the beach, it did feel somewhat typical of what you would expect to find in a hotel. Additionally, the balconies at the Sandpearl, though functional, felt like slabs of concrete sticking off the side of the building.
In terms of accommodations, both properties offer luxurious and comfortable suites. While the Opal Sands may have the edge in terms of its impressive views and added half bath, the Sandpearl offers a more functional and comfortable living space. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your personal preferences and whether you prioritize the view or the functionality of the room.
Grounds, Activities, and Pool
Opal Sands
The grounds at the Opal Sands are well-maintained and beautiful. However, it’s important to note that they are not large in size. The resort is situated at the corner of the beach, on a slight elevation, which allows for stunning views of the Gulf. The pool, located on a tear deck overlooking the Gulf, has a sleek and modern design, making it a visually appealing feature of the property. However, it may not be the ideal family pool due to its limited expanse. The gym and spa at the Opal Sands are as expected, with the gym being slightly nicer than at the Sandpearl.
Sandpearl
The grounds at the Sandpearl are more traditional in style and boast more space compared to the Opal Sands. The resort features two pools with zero entry and a winding property, providing a more expansive feel. The aesthetic of the Sandpearl’s grounds is also appealing, with a classic resort pool design. When it comes to grounds, activities, and pool, the two properties are fairly evenly matched. Both offer beautiful outdoor spaces, but the Sandpearl’s larger footprint and traditional design give it a slight advantage in terms of family-friendliness and practicality.
Beach
Opal Sands
The beach behind the Opal Sands is expansive, with a wide stretch of white sand. While there have been some complaints about the beach in certain reviews, for most people, it will be more than satisfactory. Although the Opal Sands sits at the corner of the beach, you may need to walk a little further to find space for activities. Overall, the beach experience at the Opal Sands is enjoyable, and you can still appreciate the beauty and serenity that Clearwater Beach has to offer.
Sandpearl
Behind the Sandpearl, you will find a beautiful stretch of white sand beach. The only downside is that it can be a long walk from the start of the sand to the beginning of the water. However, the spacious beach terrain allows for various activities and provides ample room to relax and soak up the sun. In terms of beach quality, the Sandpearl wins over the Opal Sands due to its wider beach area and more accessible location.
Restaurants
Opal Sands
The Opal Sands boasts several restaurants that are sure to satisfy your cravings. One noteworthy option is the Sandbar, a casual beachside restaurant that is open to the public. It offers delicious food and a laid-back atmosphere. In addition, Sea-Guini is the flagship restaurant at the Opal Sands, offering a nice dining experience with a semi-pricey hotel menu. The restaurant also has a well-stocked bar for those looking to unwind. Overall, the Opal Sands provides a diverse range of dining options to suit different tastes.
Sandpearl
At the Sandpearl, you will find the Market, a delightful coffee shop that caters to your caffeine needs. The resort also boasts the Tate Island Grill, a casual pool and beachside restaurant that offers tasty food in a relaxed setting. For those seeking fine dining, there’s Caretta on the Gulf, a beautiful restaurant with an upscale atmosphere. The Sandpearl also offers a unique feature: beachside service from Tate’s if you rent the resort’s beach chairs. While the Opal Sands has excellent dining options, the Sandpearl takes the lead with its inclusion of a coffee shop, the Market.
Location
Opal Sands
In terms of location, the Opal Sands is situated in a convenient spot. It offers easy access to dining options on Clearwater Strip, as well as to shopping and dining outside of the resort. Additionally, the Opal Sands is equidistant from Pier 60, which is considered a center strip landmark in Clearwater. While the blocks between the Sandpearl and Pier 60 are filled with numerous options, giving it a vibrant and bustling atmosphere.
Sandpearl
The Sandpearl also benefits from being located near dining options on Clearwater Strip. However, it has the added advantage of having more options for both shopping and dining outside of the resort compared to the Opal Sands. Additionally, the Sandpearl’s location between the resort and Pier 60 creates a densely populated area with a happening strip-like effect. Overall, when it comes to location, the Sandpearl offers a more vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Conclusion
Both the Opal Sands and the Sandpearl are excellent choices for a vacation in Clearwater Beach. The Opal Sands impresses with its sleek and modern building, stunning accommodations, and first-class amenities. On the other hand, the Sandpearl exudes elegance and sophistication, offering comfortable accommodations, beautiful grounds, and a wider beach area. Ultimately, the choice between the two properties will depend on your personal preferences. If you value modernity and luxury, the Opal Sands may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a traditional and elegant atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with the Sandpearl.