Alden Suites

Situated in a cluster of other beach resorts, Alden Suites isn’t much to look at from the outside -- especially when compared to the higher-end resorts nearby. The light yellow exterior looks dated, as do the bare-bones balconies. However, the grounds are nicely kept and landscaped, with well-manicured plants, palm trees, and tropical flowers. Inside, the lobby is a pleasant surprise, with high ceilings, sand-colored tile floors, dark wood finishes, and cushy gold and blue furniture. There’s also an ATM, as well as a computer with a printer. Guests tend to congregate around the pools and at the beachside bar, and the property attracts both couples and families with its on-site activities and low rates.

The Alden is located toward the northern end of Gulf Boulevard, the main artery of St. Pete Beach. The hotel doesn’t have a sit-down restaurant, but it shares a block with Snapper’s Sea Grill. It’s also within walking distance of Guy Harvey Outpost and Howard Johnson Resort Hotel, both of which house restaurants of their own. Here, the beach is the star, so while water sport rental companies abound, you won’t find much in the way of sightseeing. If you want to experience downtown St. Petersburg’s art galleries, restaurant scene, Tampa Bay Rays games, or Dali Museum, you’ll have to drive or take a 20-minute cab ride.

Each suite includes a living room area, four-person dining table, and full kitchen or kitchenette stocked with appliances, pots and pans, and dishes. Bedroom decor is comfortable but basic, with wood furniture (including full dressers) and tropical-themed bedspreads. While some guests complain of creaky mattresses and Wi-Fi not working in the rooms, others praise the housekeeping staff. Most suites have a private balcony.

Poolside suites are considerably less expensive than those offering views of the Gulf of Mexico. Bathrooms contain beige tile, white fixtures, and shower/tub combos with hand rails. Some suites have higher-quality finishes than others.

While the Alden lacks a gym, its outdoor space features other activities suitable for groups: two lighted tennis courts, basketball, shuffleboard, volleyball, and ping pong. Watersports rentals are available for a fee, including windsurfing, sailing, jet-skiing, and parasailing. The outdoor space also has a cookout deck with grills, a 12-person hot tub, and a no-frills heated pool. The Grab and Go convenience store sells snacks, alcoholic beverages, and occasionally discounted attraction tickets. There’s also a beachfront Cabana Bar serving beer, wine, and frozen cocktails, but there’s no formal restaurant indoors. Other standouts include the coin laundry area, and a basic but clean banquet room for private events or business meetings.