It's about 4.5 miles one way. You don't have to go all the way for good views

After it rains and before and after the sun rises. There is less people running at night.

I live outside of Tampa and haven't stayed at the Sheraton but I do have a couple of recommendations outside of Tampa prop3r the Grand Hyatt at Rocky Point its very convenient to Tampa and the airport. If you'd like to stay on the beach there's a brand new Wyndham which is lovely on Clearwater beach. I don't know their availability but I've stayed the Hyatt and friends have stayed at the Wyndham.

yes, even at the Epicurian hotel they provide you a bicycle

Check AirBNB

Consider Hilton, Marriott or Westin. This last one is waterfront. The Embassy suite is just in front. If want a different experience but more expensive get the Epicurium just in the Hyde park area at Howard st south

i park on side streets , lawn is a side street close to gandy, just be sure to read the signs on the street ,some side streets have no parking on either side of the street