What to pack for a stay at The Don CeSar
Pack beachwear (swimsuits, rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen), casual daytime clothes, a light layer for evenings, and essentials like ID and credit card—the primary guest must be 21+ to check in. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and any child- or pet-specific items; the hotel charges a daily resort fee that includes beach loungers, towels, and fitness/yoga classes.
In this guide
Beach & water-activity gear
The Don CeSar faces the Gulf of Mexico and provides beach loungers, umbrellas, and towels as part of the resort-fee inclusions, so you don’t need to bring bulky loungers. Still pack swimsuits, a cover-up, water shoes for shelling, and a sun hat.
If you plan to use non-motorized rentals or go kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or other watersports, bring a waterproof phone case and any personal snorkel gear you prefer—the resort offers some non-motorized rentals during morning hours as part of the resort fee.
- 2–3 swimsuits or trunks
- Rash guard or sun shirt
- Reef-safe sunscreen and lip SPF
- Wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses
- Waterproof phone case and small dry bag
- Lightweight beach tote and flip-flops/water shoes
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Reef-safe sunscreen | Required for protection and better for local marine life |
| Water shoes | Protect feet when shelling or walking rocky areas |
| Waterproof case | Useful for paddleboarding, kayaking, or poolside use |
What to pack for your room
Rooms at The Don CeSar include a range of named types; pick items that fit your room choice. Typical guest rooms have basics, but bring chargers, travel adapters, and any preferred pillow or sleep mask.
Sample room names you might book include Luxury Room, Junior Suite (Luxury), Grand Room, Suite, 1 Bedroom, Balcony (Gulf View), and Penthouse (Gulf View Suite). If you need a balcony or extra beds, verify the specific room type when you book.
- Chargers, power bank, and international adapter if needed
- Light pajamas and a light sweater for cooler nights
- Toiletries you prefer (hotel provides basic amenities)
- Collapsible laundry bag or travel-size detergent
| Common room feature | Pack if you need it |
|---|---|
| Balcony (Gulf View) or suite | Binoculars or camera for Gulf views |
| Rooms with two beds (e.g., Deluxe Room) | Extra pajamas/changes for families |
| Penthouse or 1 Bedroom | Dressier outfit if you plan fine dining at Maritana |
Dining, dress code, and restaurant etiquette
The Don CeSar has several on-site dining venues (Maritana, Society Table, The Rowe Bar, Uncle Andy’s Market, Lobby Bar). In-room dining runs daily from 7:00am to 11:00pm if you prefer to eat in your room.
Maritana enforces a resort-casual dress code; athletic wear, swimwear, cover-ups, hats, visors, and flip-flops are not permitted. Pack at least one outfit that meets a smart-casual standard if you plan to dine there.
- Resort-casual outfit for Maritana (no swimwear or flip-flops)
- Casual daytime clothes for Society Table, Rowe Bar, and poolside dining
- Light rain jacket or umbrella—Florida weather can change quickly
| Venue | Notes |
|---|---|
| Maritana | Dinner only; resort-casual dress code |
| Society Table | All-day dining; family-friendly |
| Uncle Andy’s Market | Coffee, ice cream, pastries; casual |
Spa, fitness and activity items
Spa Oceana offers treatment rooms, a full-service salon, and spa facilities; guests receiving treatments get access to whirlpools and steam rooms. If you have a specific treatment, arrive at least 30 minutes early as requested by the spa.
Fitness center access plus daily yoga and aerobics classes are included in the resort fee. Pack workout clothes, running shoes, and a refillable water bottle if you plan to use the gym or attend classes.
- Workout clothes and athletic shoes
- Yoga mat or towel if you prefer your own (hotel provides class equipment)
- Swimsuit for whirlpool/steam access after spa treatments
- Any prescription or routine supplements you use
| Service | What to bring |
|---|---|
| Spa treatment | Comfortable clothing, bathing suit for spa facilities |
| Fitness class | Training shoes and towel |
| Beach yoga | Mat or towel and a light cover-up |
Travel documents, payments and practicals
The primary guest must be at least 21 to check in and will need a photo ID plus a credit card at arrival. The Don CeSar operates as a cashless hotel and accepts cards for charges during your stay.
A mandatory daily resort fee applies and covers items such as Premium Wi‑Fi, bicycle rentals, beach loungers and umbrella daily rental, fitness center access, and certain classes. Confirm current fee details with the hotel or your booking agent before you travel.
- Photo ID and credit card for check-in
- Printed or digital confirmation and any reservation times (spa, dining)
- Insurance card and emergency contact info
- Small first-aid kit and prescription meds
| Thing | Why pack |
|---|---|
| Photo ID & credit card | Required at check-in; property is cashless |
| Resort confirmation | Shows room type and included items like beach lounger access |
| Prescription meds | Pharmacies may be a short drive away |
Family, kids and pet considerations
The Don CeSar is family-friendly and lists children's activities, supervised childcare options (surcharge), and kids' programs. If traveling with children, pack familiar snacks, swim diapers (if needed), and any entertainment for pool or beach time.
The hotel allows up to two pets (dogs and cats) per room up to 50 lb with a nightly fee; pet guests are assigned ground-floor rooms and pets are not allowed in the pool area or on the beach. Bring proof of vaccinations, a leash, and a travel crate or bed for your pet.
- Children: sunscreen, floaties, beach toys, and a compact stroller
- Babysitting/children's club: confirm hours and fees with concierge ahead of arrival
- Pets: vaccination records, leash, bowls, and a sturdy pet bed
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Kids’ activity gear | Pool toys allowed; check pool rules for glass and splash items |
| Pet documents | Required for pet stays; pets limited to ground-floor rooms |
| Childcare contact | Arrange babysitting or supervised activities in advance |
Getting around and excursion essentials
The Don CeSar is on St. Pete Beach with Pass-a-Grille within easy walking distance; popular day trips such as Fort De Soto Park, Johns Pass, and downtown St. Petersburg are a short drive away. Public transit has limits near the hotel, so plan rideshares, a rental car, or check SunRunner and Suncoast Trolley routes if you prefer not to drive.
If you plan boat tours or excursions (dolphin cruises, shelling trips, Egmont Key), bring a light waterproof jacket, a hat, motion-sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness, and any required tickets or confirmations.
- Printed or digital tour confirmations and pickup details
- Motion-sickness remedies if taking boat trips
- Comfortable walking shoes for nearby sightseeing
- Small daypack for beach-to-town excursions
| Nearby option | Typical travel |
|---|---|
| Pass-a-Grille | Walkable from the hotel |
| Fort De Soto Park | Short drive; no public transit direct |
| Downtown St. Petersburg / Dali Museum | About a 15-minute drive |
