Does anyone have experience with this hotel? I booked late for the "spring break" time and didn't have many options. I am at a loss, because although we've done a lot of world-wide travel have never been to Florida and really don't know much about the area except what I've been able to research. I am seeing some negative reviews online. I don't see much of anything on Fodors about this hotel. Can anyone give me some information? Thank you in advance.

The Sirata is a typical big beach hotel - neither good nor bad in my opinion.

The Dolphin is similar and often has better rates.

I am a little annoyed at the "extra" charges I'm discovering. $8 a day for parking and $9.95 a day for wireless internet access. Is this typical?

Yes. Spring Break is busy so they can charge what they want.

Before you pay for internet access, see if there's free wireless floating around. Often you'll find a signal you can tap into.

(And the New York Times' "ethicist" says that's okay.)

Well, someone tapping into a wireless signal doesn't cost the "supplier" anything "extra", does it? (beyond their initial setup cost and provider fee). I guess that's what really annoys me about the hotel charging $9.95 for wireless access! Like charging for the air you're breathing! If I'm wrong, correct me!

The Dolphin Beach Resort is not quite as large as the Sirata. Parking should be free. You have shopping right across the street in a small strip mall, where you can buy chips, snacks, etc.

This is a good family oriented place. It gets lots of European visitors. If you get a beachfront room (probably not available though) you can step right out into the sand from your patio on the first floor.

I'd say 95% of hotels charge for in-room internet access, anywhere from $9.99-$14.99 per 24 hours.

So is it "normal"? In my experience, Yes.

(And parking fees are of course extremely common, although I've never paid them on St. Pete Beach to my knowledge.)

We have stayed there, and it is fine, but have also stayed at the Don Cesar Beachhouse Suites (not the hotel). Very roomy and right on the beach. Not sure of the availability at this late date. Good luck! It is a wonderful area to vacation. Be sure to head to St. Pete's downtown while you are there.

I planned a bachelorette party trip to Florida at this hotel back in June 2005. I liked the place. It had pretty grounds, nice pools and the room rates were good. 6 of us stayed in the Suite and 4 us of stayed in the standard room. It worked out great. We all liked the BBQ place - I think it's called Durangos. While you are there look into a Shell Key Island cruise (it's $6 pp). Shell Key is a non-inhabited island that is covered with shells and has a really pretty beach, plus there is hardly anyone there. The girls loved it!

I checked out both the Dolphin Beach Resort and the Don Cesar Beachhouse Suites and they are considerably more expensive than what I have booked at the Sirata. The both looked nice (I especially liked the look of the Dolphin Beach Resort). Maybe another time when I'm booking earlier!

Gekko, I'm accustomed to hotel charging for internet access, but most hotels seem to be offering wireless for free. Areas of some cities are totally covered.

I'm sorry; I thought you were talking about in-room service with a cable.

I too am used to free wireless, but in common areas (lobby) and not individual rooms.