Hotels Near Port Tampa Bay, Tampa
These are the neighborhoods and hotels that put you closest to the cruise terminal, so getting to the ship on embarkation morning is quick and easy.
- Ybor City — Tampa's historic Cuban district; 7th Avenue lined with cigar bars, live music venues, and restaurants; one of the best pre-cruise neighborhoods in Florida
- Channelside / Water Street — walkable to the cruise terminal; newer entertainment district with rooftop bars, restaurants, and the Tampa Riverwalk
- Hyde Park / SoHo — Tampa's most liveable neighborhood; South Howard Avenue bar scene, excellent restaurants, and boutique shopping
- Local food: Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City (a Tampa institution since 1905), Ulele on the Riverwalk, Oxford Exchange for brunch
- Getting around: TECO Line Streetcar connects Ybor City to Channelside and the port; rideshare throughout Tampa; Riverwalk is walkable
Downtown Tampa hotels near the Riverwalk are a short rideshare from the cruise terminals, while Ybor City offers a different atmosphere if you'd like dinner somewhere with more nightlife the evening before.
The Channelside/Water Street area is the best base for a Tampa cruise, walkable to the terminal from some hotels and connected by the free streetcar for everyone else. The Tampa Marriott Water Street and a Hampton Inn in the Channel District, both roughly a half-mile to 1.5 miles from the terminal, are the top picks.
Editor's Picks – Port Tampa Bay, Tampa
Parking, shuttle, and breakfast details below are provided by each hotel and can change without notice. If you book through one of our booking partners, confirm the specific package — not just a standard room rate — directly with the hotel before you arrive.
Hotel Suites South Tampa
3314 South Dale Mabry, Tampa, Florida
Hotel South Tampa & Suites offers a comfortable stay with on-site parking facility and convenient access to the Port of Tampa, making it an excellent choice for cruise passengers. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, a fitness center, and a relaxing outdoor pool.
Aloft Tampa Downtown
100 West Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL
Aloft Tampa Downtown offers convenient parking facilities and a range of modern amenities. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, its close to popular attractions like the Tampa Riverwalk, Amalie Arena, and the Tampa Museum of Art. While not directly cruise-related, its central location makes it a great choice for pre- or post-cruise stays. Guests can enjoy the contemporary design and vibrant atmosphere that Aloft is known for, making it a notable choice in Tampa.
Tampa Marriott Water Street
505 Water Street, Tampa FL, 33602
Tampa Marriott Water Street offers valet parking and boasts an ideal downtown location. This upscale hotel features modern amenities, including a rooftop bar and a waterfront restaurant. Situated close to popular attractions like Amalie Arena and the Florida Aquarium, its an excellent choice for leisure travelers. While not directly cruise-related, its conveniently located for those embarking on cruise adventures from the nearby Port Tampa Bay, making it a great pre- or post-cruise stay option.
Embassy Suites Tampa - Downtown Convention Center
513 South Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33602
Embassy Suites Tampa - Downtown Convention Center offers guests the convenience of on-site parking. The hotel boasts spacious suites, a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast, and a nightly evening reception. Its situated near the Tampa Convention Center and Amalie Arena, making it ideal for convention attendees and sports fans. While not directly cruise-related, its a convenient option for cruisers thanks to its proximity to the Port of Tampa. Enjoy exploring the nearby Riverwalk and historic Ybor City.
Tampa Marriott Water Street
505 Water Street, Tampa FL, 33602
Tampa Marriott Water Street offers valet parking and boasts an ideal downtown location. This upscale hotel features modern amenities, including a rooftop bar and a waterfront restaurant. Situated close to popular attractions like Amalie Arena and the Florida Aquarium, its an excellent choice for leisure travelers. While not directly cruise-related, its conveniently located for those embarking on cruise adventures from the nearby Port Tampa Bay, making it a great pre- or post-cruise stay option.
Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel
200 North Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL
Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel offers convenient parking options and features modern amenities for guests. Situated along the scenic Riverwalk, its close to attractions like the Tampa Convention Center and the Florida Aquarium. While not directly cruise-related, its proximity to the Port of Tampa makes it a convenient choice for cruise passengers. Guests can enjoy the beautiful waterfront views and comfortable accommodations at this notable hotel in downtown Tampa.