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Yoga/Pilates class on the beach, and it felt
know our tickets were supporting their
only around 3-4 feet deep in most areas, so
good to stretch and tone after all of our
work. We also took a dolphin boat cruise
eating! from the local marina. The area dolphins
very kid- and family-friendly. Parents can
sit poolside and easily supervise little ones,
and the many shallow areas make it easy
for young kids to navigate.

We had wonderful poolside service, and
the food exceeded our expectations. The
pulled pork is smoked on-site and truly
delicious, and I had food envy after taking
a bite of my husband’s Caribbean Jerk
grouper sandwich. We ventured out for
dinner – there are several local dining
options within easy walking distance – but
After three nights at the Sandpearl, we
took the shuttle about a mile down the
beach and checked into its sister property,
the Opal Sands Resort. Newly opened
in February 2016, the hotel is sleek and
modern. It also sits facing the water, but
has views of the gulf, and the beach is a
short walk off to the side of the property.

The food and service both poolside and
at the restaurant at Opal Sands were
also great, and we enjoyed our time here
are attracted to the vibrations of the boat’s
motor and large wake, so they swim and
jump alongside the boat during the trip.

This was a highlight of the trip for my kids
and a really fun outing.

The Clearwater Beach pier is a local
destination for beachgoers and fishermen.

The area has playground equipment and
bouncy houses for kids, and entertainers
and vendors set up in the area every night
as well.

two hours before and after sunset. And
The service was prompt and friendly and
Of the two properties, I would recommend
we had no complaints with the quality of
The Sandpearl for a family trip, especially
of the most stunning you’ll ever see.

food. with younger children, and the Opal Sands
All in all, I highly recommend these
for singles, a couple get-away or a trip
properties and a trip to the Clearwater
with older children. The Sandpearl has the
area. Whether it be for a break from the
feel of a classic, upscale resort, while the
D.C. winter weather, a spring break trip or
Opal Sands has a younger, hipper vibe.

summer vacation, these resorts are sure to
ate breakfast daily at the resort restaurant.

The real pearl of the Sandpearl is of course
its beach front. True to its name, the water
is a clear blue against the white sand. The
resort has chairs and umbrellas available
(for a fee) and also offers poolside
We took some time to take in area
speaking of sunsets, this area offers some
offer sand, sun and family fun!
beverage and food service.

attractions, like the Clearwater Aquarium
The resort runs a Kids Camp with
the popular Dolphin Tale movies. This is
Debbie Williams is a freelance writer and editor
activities, and also offers daily recreational
not a typical aquarium, but a rescue and
based in Northern Virginia. She can be reached
programming. My daughter and I tried a
education-based facility, so it was nice to
at dwilliams@thefamilymagazine.com.

40 March 2017 washingtonFAMILY.com
which houses Hope and Winter from