As for places to stay in Tampa near the race course.... VERY LIMITED.

Budget - LaQuinta on Gandy - about 1/2 mile from the course and marinas.

In the Westshore area there are the following hotels:

1. Sheraton (average)
2. Westshore Hyatt (about a 10 - 15 minute drive; above-average)
3. Embassy Suites on Westshore (average/below average)
4. Hilton on Lois (average)
5. Hyatt Downtown (average)
6. Hilton Garden Inn in Ybor City (slightly above average)

you get the idea - no great resort style hotels in Tampa....

Marriott Channelside in Tampa. I've stayed there several times in the past. Champs sportsbar downstairs is one of the best sportsbars in Tampa. Very close to Ybor. And, with the new trolley system you can get anywhere downtown without driving. Last time I was there they were working on mooring facilities.

Thanks for all the replys. I went with a beach front suite at the Tradewinds. The Don has some kind of mass wedding vows ceremony going on that weekend and thought I better stay clear of that. The Vinoy looks real nice but not what I was looking for that weekend.