Suites On Sale At The Hyatt Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa

There’s still some baby powder-fine sand in our suitcases from our last trip to Florida, but I’m hesitant to dump it out. That silky sand is from Clearwater Beach, one of our favourite Florida beaches.

When BP’s Deepwater Horizon oil spill was spewing thousands and thousands of barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico, it was impossible to know just how much wildlife and how many miles of beach this environmental disaster was going to destroy. Now, as the cement hardens to seal off the worst offshore oil spill in US history, we can assess the damage. Sadly, many of the Gulf’s beaches from Texas to Florida had tar balls wash up, but Florida’s Suncoast, from Clearwater Beach (map) to St. Petersburg (map), was spared.

Although that area’s sand remained pristine, tourism to this remarkably family-friendly area of Florida was still affected. In an attempt to lure tourists back to the region, many hotels are offering excellent deals on accommodation, including the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa (map).

From now until December 23, 2010, families can enjoy 30% off regular rates through their Suites On Sale promotion. The Hyatt’s large one and two-bedroom suites can sleep up to six guests, and offer full kitchens, spacious living areas and private balconies, many with a fantastic Gulf view.

The resort’s pool deck features a fantastic pool and 20 private, climate-controlled cabanas that offer great respite from the sun with little ones.  Children aged 3-12 may decide to ditch mom and dad for Camp Hyatt and partake in activities and adventures that focus on the Gulf Coast area.

For more information or reservations, please visit www.clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com .

Photos courtesy Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa