Sabal Palms Inn

The Sabal Palms Inn is a quaint, simple inn right across the street from the beautiful white sands of Pass-a-Grille Beach. Though it’s an older building from the 1920s, it is very well maintained. Flanked by palm trees, it has a thatched roof and wraparound porch with a wooden walkway that leads across the pebble lawn and onto the front steps. Sweet pastel-colored Adirondack chairs and blue umbrellas are stationed outside the property, which is bordered by various plants and flowers. An inviting wooden deck and patio in front of the office entrance is filled with orange lounge chairs and a shaded sitting area. The office itself is small and functional, comprised of not much else besides the front desk, but various outdoor spaces -- including a deck, patio, and swim spa area -- are lovely.

The property is quite small, with an intimate feel and a low-key atmosphere, so it's a good alternative to much larger hotels and resorts further up north on St. Pete Beach if you don't mind missing out on amenities like a restaurant and gym. The inn is family-owned with a friendly atmosphere to match, and the care and attention that is put into all spaces and service is apparent. The proximity to the beach as well as several restaurants attracts leisure travelers, and the suites and studios with fully equipped kitchenettes suit extended stays. Families might find the studios and one-bedroom suites a bit small for their needs.

Sabal Palms Inn is located on a quiet street right across from the lovely white-sanded Pass-a-Grille Beach. The surrounding area is a serene, residential neighborhood, less touristy and definitely calmer than the resort-packed St. Pete Beach that lies just to the north. The inn is within walking distance of several restaurants, cafes, and bars, and there is a trolley stop a block away. The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum is three blocks away (a four-minute walk). St. Petersburg is 11 miles away, or about a 20-minute drive.

Studios and one-bedroom suites at the Sabal Palms Inn are simple and cozy, sleeping from two to five people. The units vary in size and layout, though decor is the same throughout: minimal and pared down, with soft and neutral colors that have a clean and serene effect. White walls and white wooden furniture pairs well with pretty patterned black and white bedding. White kitchenettes with black-and-white checkered flooring are complemented by black modern and stylish couches. The same decor philosophy applies in the clean and simple bathrooms, which have black and white checkered flooring, shower/tub combos, and provided soap and toiletries.

Though rooms are small, they do not feel cramped and space is used efficiently. Basement rooms have low ceilings and lack views from the small windows that are set high, but these units are priced accordingly and are more affordable. Front-facing units have lovely views of the beach and many have private balconies.

The Sabal Palms Inn makes efficient use of its small grounds, with plenty of seating on several patios, decks, and a wraparound porch. There is a small but lovely spa pool surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrella-shaded tables, as well as a wooden deck with picnic tables and a barbecue grill available for guest use. Free beach chairs and bikes are a thoughtful touch that make beach going and navigating around the neighborhood more convenient. Free Wi-Fi is available in the courtyard, and there are laundry facilities on the premises.