Clearwater Beach's Sandpearl Resort

The view from a fourth-floor suite at the Sandpearl

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A recent stay at the Sandpearl Resort, on the shores of Clearwater Beach, reminded me how it feels to unwind. From the moment I walked into my fourth-floor suite and saw that gorgeous view of the lagoon-style pool and Gulf of Mexico beyond, my shoulders began to lighten and I felt worries of the workday slipping from my mind. Throughout my stay I came to recognize the Sandpearl as an excellent one-stop shop for recuperating the body and mind.

The view of sunset during dinner at Caretta on the Gulf added to the "flavor" of the chilled foie gras and crispy monkfish (and it helped that I was in great company of some fun-loving colleagues). The indulgence continued with a morning boat ride to soak up some rays on Caledesi Island and a Signature Pearl Body Quench back at the Sandpearl Spa — I was so relaxed I could've easily dozed off, but didn't want to sleep through the warm stone and shell massage. Ending the trip with a s'mores roast over a fire pit on the beach (and another beautiful sunset) helped keep a smile on my face during the entire drive home.

Tags: Clearwater | Gulf Coast | Resort | Sandpearl Resort | spas