THUNDERBIRD BEACH RESORT, Treasure Island

The resort is situated directly on the Gulf of Mexico, offering beachfront access across a wide stretch of sand. Walking to the water takes about a minute, though the sandy distance to the shoreline is slightly longer. Popular dining options less than 0.5 km away include Salty Sisters Gourmet Popcorn, BRGR Kitchen and Bar, Britt's Coal Fire Pizza, and Gigi's Italian Restaurant. A grocery store is also within walking distance, and Pass-a-Grille is a 10-minute drive south. The local trolley provides access to John's Pass for shopping and waterfront dining. Free private parking is available on site with no reservation needed.

The property's rooms have been recently renovated and feature parquet floors, air conditioning, flat-screen cable TV with satellite channels, a sitting area, an in-room safe, a hair dryer, free toiletries, and tea and coffee facilities. Many rooms include a kitchenette with a microwave, refrigerator, and cookware/kitchen utensils, allowing for self-catering breakfast and lunch. Suites add extra living space and are popular with families. Ground-floor rooms open directly to the pool area, while upper-floor rooms with Gulf-facing balconies provide sunset views. Double-paned windows are not noted, but the live music is the main sound source until early evening. Rooms consistently reported as clean and comfortable, with good water pressure and ample hot water. A few units have a balcony; first-floor rooms offer a patio instead.

The tiki bar is the main on-site dining and social hub, serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at reasonable beachside prices. Live music plays daily from noon to 8:30 PM on the poolside patio. The resort does not offer a cooked breakfast, but the lobby provides complimentary coffee, fresh fruit (oranges, bananas), and chilled water with lemon, ideal for a light morning snack. A dedicated restaurant was reported as closed in mid-2024; guests currently rely on the bar menu or the many restaurants within a 5-minute walk, including BRGR, Ricky T's, and Burger-ish. The suite kitchenette makes it easy to prepare simple breakfasts or lunches.

The resort features two swimming pools: the main pool near the tiki bar and a quieter second pool in the suites area. The main pool is open until 11 PM and is surrounded by lounge chairs and seating. Free amenities include beach towels, a hot tub/Jacuzzi (availability may vary), a spa lounge/relaxation area, and yoga classes on the beach (led by certified instructors). Water aerobics and fitness classes are also offered. The tiki bar hosts live music daily from noon to 8:30 PM on a spacious patio with extra tables and shade umbrellas. Guests can rent beach chairs and umbrellas on the sand. The property includes a sand play area and kids' outdoor play equipment, making it suitable for families.

Services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and an on-site ATM. Housekeeping visits daily, providing fresh towels and cleaning-request servicing if needed. Free safety deposit boxes are available. Business facilities include a free business centre and meeting/banquet rooms (additional charge). Laundry service is available. The property has an elevator, designated smoking areas, and facilities for disabled guests. Wi-Fi is free in public areas. Security features include fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and key-card access. Vending machines for drinks and snacks are on site. A shuttle service is available (additional charge). The resort is non-smoking throughout except in designated outdoor areas.