Clear Water Beach Travel Guide – Gulf Coast Charm
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Experience miles of powdery white sand and fiery sunsets at one of the top destinations for families on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The small-town vibe keeps things relaxed and welcoming, making it perfect for a laid-back getaway.
Coming with the family? You’ll love the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the dolphin from Dolphin Tale, while Pier 60 offers daily sunset celebrations and a lively mix of restaurants and nightlife. Want more? Check out local spots along the sand or catch a game at BayCare Ballpark.
There’s so much to do outdoors. Explore Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island State Park, or hop aboard Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise for a fun, nautical adventure. Whether you’re into craft beer, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, Clearwater has it all.
Read on to learn more:
- Top Attractions & Things To Do
- Food & Drink Guide
- Places to Stay
- Map Widget (google maps, directions)
Top Attractions & Things To Do:
Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach
Stunning centerpiece starting on sugary sands and leading out to emerald waters. This 1,080-foot fishing pier with telescopes and covered pavilions, offers a nightly, year-round sunset celebration. Enjoy artisans, street performers and world-famous sunsets, beginning two hours before sunset and lasting until two hours after, weather permitting. Family-friendly event, perfect for all ages. Kids will love the shaded playground, one of largest beach playgrounds on the west coast of Florida.
Honeymoon Island State Park
This pristine barrier island offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. Accessible by a scenic causeway, the park boasts four miles of unspoiled, white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can explore nature trails winding through pine forests and coastal marshes, providing opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. The park is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, shelling, and sunbathing. With picnic areas, a playground, and concessions, Honeymoon Island State Park is perfect for a day of family fun or a romantic retreat. Kayaking, fishing, and nature cruises are also popular activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this coastal haven.
Caladesi Island State Park
Consistently ranks among the top beaches in the United States, visitors can reach the island via the Caladesi Connection ferry service or private boats, adding to the sense of seclusion. Enjoy three miles of uncrowded, white sandy beaches, providing a tranquil setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The park also features a marina, picnic areas, and a concession stand, ensuring visitors have all they need for a day of relaxation and recreation in this natural paradise.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Experience this world-renowned marine life center dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, and otters. Visitors to the aquarium have the opportunity to witness marine life up close and learn about the critical conservation efforts undertaken by the facility. Enjoy interactive exhibits, live presentations, and behind-the-scenes tours.
The Gulp Coast Craft Beer Trail
35 locally owned breweries between Celarwater and St. Petersburg, where you can sample the unique creations of talented brewmasters. In the central region of the beer trail, visit Grindhaus Brew Lab in Clearwater, for a taste of small batch brews while watching cult classics and B-movies every Friday & Saturday night.
BayCare Ballpark
Spring training home of the Philadelphia Phillies and the Low-A Southeast League Clearwater Threshers. Enjoy spring training games, typically held in February and March, where the Phillies prepare for Major League Baseball season. The perfect opportunity for fans to get up close to the action!
Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise
Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Step aboard the pirate ship, a replica of an 18th-century Spanish galleon, and set sail for a lively and entertaining cruise. Captain Memo’s crew, dressed in pirate attire, engages passengers with interactive activities, pirate stories, and games, transforming the cruise into a thrilling pirate-themed escapade. As the ship navigates the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, passengers can enjoy the scenic views of Clearwater Beach while fully immersing themselves in the pirate experience. The cruise often includes opportunities for youngsters to participate in treasure hunts, face painting, and other pirate-inspired activities. Adults and children alike can channel their inner buccaneer as they enjoy the camaraderie, music, and fun-loving atmosphere on board. Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise is not only a family-friendly adventure but also a unique way to experience Clearwater Beach with a touch of whimsy and excitement. The combination of pirate-themed entertainment, coastal views, and interactive elements makes it a popular choice for those seeking a memorable and entertaining cruise experience on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Food & Drink Guide
Clearwater Beach boasts a lineup of iconic beachfront restaurants that cater to every taste and occasion.
Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
Indulge in renowned seafood dishes, savoring the flavors of the Gulf while immersed in the laid-back beach atmosphere.
Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber
For a romantic date night, enjoy an elegant dining experience with a refined comfort food menu, all within a nautically themed setting.
Shephard’s Tiki Beach Bar & Grill
Take in live music, cocktails, and quick bite, where sweeping views of the Gulf and Clearwater Pass create the perfect backdrop.
Barefoot Beach House
Just steps from the surf, this eatery invites you to order a grouper sandwich at their walk-up window – no shoes required.
Sharky’s Beach Bar
Enjoy this family friendly eatery, offering kid-friendly options, while also providing a relaxed setting for drinks, shark-themed cocktails, and a menu featuring happy-hour favorites and hearty entrees.
Jimmy’s Crow’s Nest
If you’re in the mood for breathtaking sunset views, head to Jimmy’s Crow’s Nest, a rooftop bar with 360-degree views of the beach and beyond, complemented by a memorable drink list.
Places To Stay
Whether you prefer the vibrant downtown scene or the coastal tranquility of Clearwater Beach, the city has a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, making it an ideal destination for a memorable Florida Gulf Coast getaway.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Offers a blend of comfort and style, providing a perfect retreat after a day of beach activities.
Residence Inn by Marriott Clearwater Downtown
In the heart of the city, this hotel provides a central location for exploration.
Sandpearl Resort
This standout option is known for its upscale accommodations and stunning Gulf views.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Tampa Clearwater
For those seeking a blend of sophistication and efficiency closer to Tamp, this property is located just across the causeway and the world-famous Clearwater Beach beckons with its own array of exceptional accommodations. Here, you’ll discover some of St. Pete/Clearwater’s most beloved hotels and resorts.
Opal Sands Resort & Spa
Boasting luxurious amenities, ensures a memorable beachfront experience.
