Howard Johnson - St. Petersburg Beach (Updated)

This updated guide describes the Howard Johnson property on St. Petersburg Beach as a value-focused, family-friendly hotel offering basic room amenities, a pool and a continental breakfast. It highlights the brand's 1925 origins and proximity to beaches, marinas, downtown St. Petersburg and Tropicana Field (home of the Tampa Bay Rays). Several specific features and ownership details have changed since older descriptions; check the hotel for current offerings and exact location.

A budget, family-friendly option on St. Petersburg Beach

If you're planning a family trip to St. Petersburg, Florida, the Howard Johnson property on St. Pete Beach has long appealed to travelers who want basic comforts and value. The Howard Johnson name began in 1925 as an ice-cream stand and grew into a chain of orange-roofed restaurants and motor lodges known for affordable, family-focused lodging.

What to expect from the property

The hotel presents straightforward rooms with in-room coffeemakers, cable TV, and work-friendly desks in many rooms. Guests can typically find a mix of non-smoking and accessible rooms. The property historically advertised family amenities such as kids' activity rooms and compact kitchenettes (mini-fridges and microwaves) in some room types.

Outside, the grounds include palm trees, lawns and a courtyard area with a pool and sundeck. The original description of the property highlighted a heated pool and tropical courtyard; confirm current pool features and seasonality with the hotel before booking.¹

A free continental breakfast in the lobby was a standard offering at this brand's budget properties and was promoted at this location in earlier descriptions. Check directly with the hotel for the current breakfast format and hours.²

Location and nearby points of interest

The hotel sits on St. Pete Beach with road access to local marinas, restaurants and shops. It is an easy drive to downtown St. Petersburg and to Tropicana Field, the longtime home ballpark of the Tampa Bay Rays (the team changed its name from the Devil Rays in 2008). Distances vary by exact hotel address and local traffic, so check the property map when you book.³

Practical features

For business travelers the property historically offered simple "home office" style rooms with desks and chairs. Standard on-site features across similar properties include 24-hour front desk service, laundry/valet options, parking, and limited meeting space. If you need meeting facilities, event catering, or enhanced business services, confirm availability and capacity before arrival.⁴

Bottom line

The Howard Johnson on St. Pete Beach remains a practical, budget-minded choice for families and travelers who prefer a straightforward hotel near the beach. It emphasizes value over luxury: expect basic, comfortable rooms, a pool and on-site breakfast (confirm current offerings), and easy access to beaches and local dining.

Note: Several details about ownership, specific branded kids' programs, exact distances to attractions, and some on-site amenities have changed across the hotel industry since older descriptions. Verify these items directly with the property or the brand website before you finalize plans.⁵

1. Confirm current operating name and ownership of the Howard Johnson property on St. Pete Beach.
2. Verify the hotel's current address and exact driving distances to Tropicana Field and downtown St. Petersburg.
3. Confirm the on-site amenities today: pool type and heating, presence of kids' programs (Crayola or similar), availability of mini-fridges/microwaves in room types.
4. Verify whether the hotel currently offers a complimentary continental breakfast and the breakfast hours.
5. Confirm business and meeting facilities (capacity, equipment, and booking procedures).