Pearl Beach Inn

The value Pearl Beach Inn is a family-owned, 1950s-style property composed of one- and two-story structures painted pale yellow with white trim. Even the front sign feels homey and welcoming, with its throwback blue lettering and picture of a beach umbrella. A wooden pathway -- flanked by tropical foliage -- leads past the sun deck to a quiet beach, where there’s usually no more than a handful of people on the sand. Tropical foliage surrounds the property. The front office closes early, but there’s a phone number for late-night requests. There isn’t a restaurant or breakfast room here, but barbecue grills and in-room kitchens appeal to budget-minded travelers who prefer to cook their own meals. Expect to encounter plenty of families, couples, and groups of friends here.

This small hotel is on Manasota Key in Englewood, a stretch of sand that’s uncrowded -- aside from sea turtles nesting from May to October. This is a quiet beach, with shores that are packed with shells and shark teeth. Manasota Key Beach is 20 minutes on foot from the hotel. On the downside, this remote location means the closest markets (Old Village Publix) and restaurants are about 15 minutes away by car. It’s a 15- to 20-minute drive to the Englewood Farmers Market, also called Sunfresh Produce, and Catania’s Winery. Within 25 to 30 minutes by car are the Myakka State Forest and Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve. Driving to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport takes 45 minutes to an hour. Sarasota is a 45-minute drive and Tampa is an hour and 30 minutes away by car. 

Rooms are pleasant and clean with a tropical feel. The look is modern and homey, with attractive rattan furniture, subtle palm tree-print fabrics and artwork, and ceramic tile floors. Overshadowing the modest interiors are the beachfront views (in most rooms) from patios or balconies, most of which are shared. There are several efficiency rooms with kitchenettes -- equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffeemakers. Larger rooms include a King Deluxe Suite; a Queen Deluxe Suite with a sofa-bed and futon, plus an outdoor grilling area and full-size kitchen with oven/stove; and a King Waterview Suite with a private balcony featuring Gulf views, to boot. Simply designed bathrooms in seaside shades of tan and white have showers or shower/tub combos and small vanities. Every room offers a sitting area with a flat-screen TV along with air-conditioning and king or queen beds; some have futons. Most rooms (except the King Deluxe Suite) allow pets for a fee. 

The beach is the main attraction at the Pearl Beach Inn. The few amenities at this hotel are all aimed at helping guests have laid-back waterfront getaways. Free beach supplies are available on the sand, including chairs, umbrellas, toys, and bean-bag toss games. Overlooking the beach is a sun deck with patio chairs, umbrellas, and a barbecue grill equipped with charcoal and lighter fluid. Two other barbecue grills are on the property, which has a hammock and chairs throughout. Outdoor parking is on-site and the lot is large enough to fit boat trailers, RVs, and trucks. Self-serve laundry machines are also provided for guests’ use. And the front desk can arrange excursions, kayaking tours, and other trips.