Arrival/Check-In: We flew from Philadelphia to Tampa and found the airport efficient and easy to navigate. Despite local headlines about issues with the new rental car center, our experience was smooth: an elevated train quickly transported us to the rental center and our drive to the hotel was short. Valet attendants were ready and efficient on arrival. The hotel lobby is expansive, with palm trees in the center, and the property is undergoing a multi-phase renovation by its new owners. Frank, the bellman, helped with our bags and escorted us to registration. Check-in was quick, and Frank brought us to a high-floor room with a broad view of the marina. He also recommended local spots and restaurants; we followed his advice and walked across the bridge to Jackson’s for cocktails and dinner our first night. After a busy next morning, it was good to be settled in.
Guest Quarters: I recommend requesting a room away from the elevator shaft, as the elevators run through the night and can be noisy. During our two-day stay we moved down the hall and experienced better sleep. The rooms are straightforward: our standard room had two double beds, a set of drawers, and a flat-screen TV on the opposite wall. The patio is a highlight, though it has a small 3-inch step to exit—an intentional design to protect rooms from stormwater. The bathroom featured off-white marble from floor to ceiling and a shower that spanned one side of the room with glass doors and panels. The shower pressure and fixtures, including a European hand sprayer, were excellent. Toiletries from the Thanann brand—aromatherapy shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, and soap—were provided.
Services/Amenities: On our second night we dined at the Waterside Grill and chose an outdoor table. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere as participants from a charity run finished their event nearby. Our server, Anastasia, was attentive and friendly. The ribeye steak exceeded expectations and was cooked perfectly; I enjoyed a Caesar and kale salad to start. We also stopped at the busy lobby bar where we found seats in the back and watched the bartender Ryan craft drinks with energetic flair. The hotel fosters a welcoming atmosphere, and the marina walk is ideal for a run or a leisurely stroll.
Top Takeaways:
◆ The small yellow trolley cars are charming and stop directly in front of the hotel, making for an easy excursion.
◆ Valet and parking attendants were exceptionally efficient.
◆ Jackson’s and several other restaurants are within easy walking distance.
TAMPA MARRIOTT WATERSIDE HOTEL & MARINA
700 S. Florida Ave.
Tampa, FL 33602
tel 813 221 4900
marriott.com