Best beach closest to Tampa

[Floridababy16]

We are more than likely flying to Tampa for the first time. Thinking of staying in Tampa on the first night - can anyone recommend a beach that's not too far away?

[Viking17]

Clearwater beach is about 35 minutes drive from Tampa airport. Its a stunning place. We try and have a couple of nights here each time we visit Orlando

[swiper]

Clearwater.
Powder white sand, which goes on and on.
Calm warm sea.
Dolphins and manatees just passing by.
Lots of places to eat and drink.
Pier 60 with the sunset parade of stalls and with entertainment.
Then the amazing sunsets... what’s not to like...

[The Wards]

we are looking to do this too and have been looking at pier 60 house at clearwater

[Floridababy16]

Looks like Clearwater is the place to be. I have got quite a few thousand Virgin miles saved up and I am going to look into converting them into Hilton points and using them for a 1 night stay at Hilton Hotel Clearwater. That's if my points haven't expired mind

[tspill]

It depends on what you mean close. We much prefer Anna Marie Island to Clearwater, but it is a bit further down. Siesta Key is the nicest of all, but again a bit further again.

[toonmadlad]

This was taken at Siesta Key, beautiful beach.