Dunedin /Tarpon Springs Places to stay..

Question

Last minute trip, next week m-f. Renting a car. The area seems overrun with hotels. (not sure if the Motels are decent?) I understand that some are in areas that are NOT good, (from reviews) so I am worried about booking before we go. I would like to go and book as needed as we want to explore the entire area and don't know where we will land. Going from Tampa/ Ft Soto all the way to Tarpon Springs (maybe Newport Richey area). We are visiting to just get a feel of the area and have time off from work. NO real itinerary. Just drive and eat and stay. IS there a best way to book a hotel? Do not need to stay at the same hotel... is there a best way? Call vs on-line- vs walk-in?? Any good chains that you can recommend would be most appreciated. Looking to save money and don't want to spend alot - do not need fancy- just clean hotel for the night or 2....PS.. Thank you all!

Answer

For a last-minute, flexible trip through Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, and nearby areas, your approach should balance convenience, safety, and budget. Since you’re renting a car and don’t need to stay in one hotel, you have a lot of flexibility for exploring and deciding where to stop for the night.

Booking strategies for spontaneous travel:

Online booking apps: Use platforms like Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Expedia. These allow you to filter by price, cleanliness ratings, and location. You can check reviews for safety and quality, and many allow free cancellation, giving you flexibility to change plans as you explore.
Walk-in: For smaller motels or budget inns, walking in can sometimes get you better rates, especially midweek. Arrive early in the afternoon to have the best selection, and call ahead to check if they have vacancies if you want to avoid wasted time.
Phone reservations: Calling local hotels directly can sometimes yield better rates than online, especially for smaller chains or independents. It also gives you a chance to ask about the neighborhood and amenities.

Neighborhood considerations:

Stick to areas near main roads and popular tourist spots like downtown Tarpon Springs, Clearwater, Dunedin downtown, or near parks. These areas are generally safer and have more dining options.
Avoid sketchy side streets or very isolated motels, which may have negative reviews regarding safety or cleanliness.

Hotel chains and budget-friendly options to consider:

La Quinta Inn & Suites – clean, reliable, usually mid-budget.
Holiday Inn Express – good chain with consistent standards and breakfast included.
Best Western – generally clean and centrally located in smaller towns.
Motel 6 or Days Inn – budget options; check reviews carefully as quality can vary.

Tips for making your trip smooth:

Have a list of 2–3 options per town, so if one is full, you can quickly move to the next.
Check Google Maps or TripAdvisor for up-to-date reviews on cleanliness and safety, especially for motels.
Midweek travel often means better availability and rates compared to weekends.
Keep some cash on hand, as smaller motels sometimes prefer cash payments.

Overall, your best approach is a mix: check online for reviews and rates, call ahead if you want extra reassurance, and be prepared to walk in if something looks promising. With a car, you can explore the area freely and decide where you feel most comfortable staying each night.

Dunedin /Tarpon Springs Places to stay..

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