Where to Stay

We stayed at Hotel Haya, and it was amazing! This stylish hotel is located in Historic Ybor City, just 15 minutes from the airport and surrounded by buzzing nightlife, colorful architecture, and great food options.

The hotel itself had everything we needed: beautiful rooms, fantastic service, and a pool scene that was a whole vibe thanks to live DJ sets on rotation.

We loved how easy it was to get around. The free streetcar made it simple to explore downtown, or you can hop in a quick Uber and be just about anywhere in minutes.

What to Do

Take a spa day! This was hands-down one of the highlights of our trip. The JW Marriott spa was luxurious and peaceful. The perfect place to unwind and kick off the weekend feeling refreshed and pampered!

We spent plenty of time by the pool at Hotel Haya, soaking up the sun and sipping cocktails.

Beacon Rooftop, the rooftop bar and lounge at the Haya, was also phenomenal, and the views were just as good as the food. Highly recommend it for a golden hour hangout!

You know I won’t skip a work out even while on vacation. So if you’re also into fitness (or just want to feel a little better about the brunches and cocktails), book a class at Barry’s Boot Camp. We got our sweat on with high-energy music and amazing instructors. We absolutely LOVED it!

The Tampa Riverwalk is an easy choice. It’s a two and half mile path that winds along the Hillsborough River with plenty of cute spots to stop, grab a drink, and snap a photo.

I can’t travel without wanting to shop. If you love a good shopping day, too, don’t miss Hyde Park Village. It’s a charming outdoor shopping area with quaint shops, cafes, and local finds.

Where to Eat

A Mediterranean-inspired stunner right on the river, Predalina blew us away with its fresh, vibrant flavors. Think grilled octopus, house-made pastas, and beautifully plated main dishes. The space is equally impressive, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a coastal Greek village. Perfect for a long lunch or golden-hour dinner with your girls!

Oxford Exchange was a total dream. We went for brunch and loved everything from the food to the ambiance. Bonus: there’s a tea shop and boutique market as well, so give yourself time to browse!

Trendy and polished, and perfect for a girls’ night out, The Pearl serves up elevated seafood and craft cocktails in a dreamy setting at Water Street. We loved the oysters, the shareable apps, and the attention to detail in every dish (and drink!).

Another great breakfast or brunch pick, Psomi offers fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a modern, airy space. With my roots, is it any surprise this was a favorite of mine? We couldn’t get enough of their bread and iced coffee.

For a true taste of Tampa, Ulele is a must. Located right on the Riverwalk, this spot blends native-inspired flavors with Florida-fresh ingredients. The seafood is top-notch, the cocktails are creative, and it’s the perfect stop for lunch or dinner. It’s a local favorite for a reason!

You have to get dinner at Rooster & the Till. This was easily one of the best meals we had in Tampa. The vibe is upscale-casual with creative small plates that are perfect for sharing. Make a reservation ahead of time; this spot fills up fast!

Tampa surprised us in the best way! Full of flavorful food, fun, and relaxation. Whether you’re sipping poolside cocktails, indulging in spa treatments, or exploring the city with your girls, this Florida gem has everything you need for the ultimate getaway.

Disclosure: Visit Tampa Bay hosted my accommodations during my stay, but all opinions are my own.