Pasa Tiempo Private Waterfront Resort - Adults Only

We left a day early because we couldn't stand the odor in room 16. It was on the top floor, and the smell hit me as soon as we walked in. We opened the window to air it out, but that didn't help much. I suspect the dirty carpet was the source. The pool was also dirty and hadn't been cleaned during either of our two days there. Grounds were neglected, the fountain water was turning green, there were no umbrellas at the tables, no faucet water on the fishing deck, and the ice maker never had ice. We paid a $25 resort fee, but for what? A pool that any hotel has and presumably cleans? This stay was a gift, and though the reviews and pictures had me looking forward to it, I wouldn't return or recommend it to anyone I know. They need to replace the room carpet and pay attention to the details.

We had a lovely little patio that caught the morning sun, and the views were lovely and restful. The resort is quiet and sits on the harbor side rather than the beach side, with easy access over the bridge from St. Petersburg. There are plenty of restaurants nearby by car, and you can walk to them if you're feeling energetic. The staff were friendly and helpful, and sympathetic even when the issue couldn't be fixed. The pool gets shady in the afternoon, so mornings are best unless the weather is hot. One thing I wish I'd known is that guests smoke on the patios, balconies, and other outdoor areas, which are fairly small. It bothered me. Our king mattress was also soft and very worn, so we found it uncomfortable. If that's been fixed, ask for room 14.

Room 12, the waterfront presidential unit, was clean and nice, though it was on the ground floor with no private patio. There are tables, chairs, and loungers on the dock. The staff were attentive and kind, and took care of any issue we brought up. The resort is a quaint spot off the bay, about a two-minute drive from Upham Beach. They call it a luxury resort, which feels like a stretch since it was missing what I'd consider luxury touches. Still, we'd stay again and recommend it.

The house was available to us for an extra night, which let us enjoy the place even more after catering a friend's wedding there. It isn't a cookie-cutter motel. This is a distinctive property, beautifully kept, with an elegant feel. Every room is different, thoughtfully decorated, and clearly cared for. I stayed in the pool room, and the view was outstanding. The bed was fantastic, with plenty of pillows and cozy blankets, and the property was spotless. There are three lovely boat slips with docks. Staff are around daily and are friendly and helpful, and the office has bottled water and breakfast cakes.