The hype
Travelers love the modern 'South Beach' aesthetic and the rooftop vibes, but often wish the pool was larger and the beach was closer.
Hotel Zamora
$250-430/ night
Book this if You want a boutique Mediterranean vibe with a killer rooftop bar and don't mind walking 5 minutes to the beach.
Why People Love It
- The 360° rooftop bar (Azura) has some of the best sunset views in St. Pete
- Resort fee actually includes valet parking, which is rare for the area
- Free kayak rentals to explore the Intracoastal Waterway right from the hotel dock
Quick Take: It's a stylish, modern hotel that feels like a fortress of cool, but remember: you are across the street from the sand, not on it.
Reviewed by @tpa.tay: I needed a total break from reality, and this place delivered. We spent days biking around St. Pete and lounging in the cabanas without a care in the world. The Spanish architecture is stunning, and the food was to die for. It was the perfect romantic reset.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'partial water view' often means a sliver of blue past a condo building, and the pool area is partially shaded by the building itself (great for escaping sun, bad for tanning).
- You prioritize a modern, boutique feel over a massive resort complex
- You plan to bring a car (valet is included in the resort fee)
- You enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking directly from your hotel
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.1
- Housekeeping: Consistent and thorough. Reviews frequently cite 'spotless' rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. High marks for modern fixtures and cleanliness.
- Maintenance: Generally excellent, though some hallways show minor wear.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp. No major complaints about wear or stains.
- Odors & scents: Fresh, no lingering musty smells reported.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Rooftop bar music (especially on weekends until 10-11pm)
- Traffic noise from Gulf Blvd for street-facing rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The $45.20 resort fee is actually high-value: it covers valet parking, beach chairs, and kayak rentals.
- Breakfast is NOT included; expect to pay $15+ per person at Castile.
- The pool is partially covered by the building, meaning it gets shade earlier in the day than other hotels.
What to pack
- Water shoes for kayaking (launching from the dock)
- A beach bag (you have to carry your gear across the street)
- Earplugs if you plan to sleep before 11pm on a weekend
Room Genie
Best picks
- Intracoastal View rooms (quieter, nice sunrise views over the water)
- Grandeur Suite (two bathrooms, huge living space, great for families)
Rooms to avoid
- Top floor rooms directly under the rooftop bar (vibration/noise)
- Low floor rooms facing Gulf Blvd (traffic noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love a room facing the Intracoastal Waterway for the quietest experience. Please avoid the top floor directly under the rooftop bar if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the hotel directly on the beach?
No. It is across the street (Gulf Blvd). There is a deeded path, but it's a 5-minute walk to the sand.
Does the resort fee cover parking?
Yes! This is a huge perk. The ~$45 resort fee includes valet parking (limited spaces, so arrive early).
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the pool is heated, but it is smaller and partially shaded by the building structure.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but it will cost you. The pet fee is $195 per stay, but there are no weight limits.
Is there a shuttle?
No dedicated airport shuttle, but the 'Freebee' electric shuttle service operates in St. Pete Beach for local rides.
What is the rooftop bar like?
360° Rooftop (Azura) is a highlight—panoramic views of the Gulf and Intracoastal, great cocktails, but can get busy and loud.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the free kayaks in the morning when the Intracoastal water is calmest—you might see dolphins.
- ✨
The 'Happy Hour' at the rooftop bar offers some of the best value drinks with a view in town.
- ✨
Walk to the Don CeSar (Pink Palace) for a drink, but stay here to save $200/night.
5 things to know before you go
💡The hallways can feel a bit dark and 'dingy' compared to the bright rooms.
💡The 'Gulf View' is often blocked by condos across the street; 'Intracoastal View' is actually the superior view here.
💡There are no hooks for towels in some bathrooms—a weird design oversight.
💡The pool gets shade early in the afternoon because of the building's U-shape.
💡You have to cross a 4-lane road to get to the beach access point.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Hotel Zamora is located and what's nearby.