Clearwater Beach boasts the perfect blend of tranquility and vibrance, allowing you to find solace in the serenity of nature or join the lively atmosphere of beachside festivities. From sun-soaked days lounging by the shore to thrilling water sports and vibrant coastal entertainment, this coastal haven offers a respite from the ordinary and an invitation to immerse yourself in pure bliss. Stay on this page to learn everything you need to know about the Clearwater Beach before your visit!
Know Before You Go
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 4-5 hours |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | Early Morning |
| 🎟️ Clearwater Beach Tours: | $99 |
Must-see at the POI
- Winter the Dolphin
- Deep Sea Fishing
- Captain Memos Pirate Cruise
Getting There
112 S. Osceola Avenue
Orlando - USA
Get Directions
Opening Hours
The beach is open 24X7.
Why is Clearwater Beach Worth Visiting?
- Clearwater Beach boasts pristine, powdery white sand that feels like sugar beneath your toes.
- You can take a dolphin watching tour and are virtually guaranteed to spot these playful creatures.
- Clearwater Beach is home to some of the most unforgettable sunsets in Florida.
- You'll never be short of things to do at Clearwater Beach, with plenty of water sports on offer.
- Clearwater Beach offers a picturesque and relaxing environment, making it the perfect spot for a beach vacation.
Recommended Clearwater Beach Tickets
Depending on the kind of experience you seek and time in hand, you can choose from a variety of Clearwater Beach tickets.
Highlights of Clearwater Beach
1 Pier 60
Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach is a vibrant hub of fun and relaxation. Stroll along the pier and soak up the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy live music, street performers, and spectacular sunsets. With its bustling atmosphere, fishing opportunities, and access to pristine beaches, Pier 60 is the perfect destination for a memorable day by the sea.
2 Water Sports
Clearwater Beach offers a playground of water sports adventures for thrill-seekers. From jet skiing and parasailing to paddleboarding and kayaking, there's something for everyone. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you glide across the sparkling waters, surrounded by stunning scenery. Dive in and make a splash with unforgettable water sports experiences at Clearwater Beach.
3Dolphin Encounter
Experience the magic of a Dolphin Encounter at Clearwater Beach! Embark on a boat tour and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Watch as dolphins playfully leap through the waves and enjoy up-close encounters with these intelligent marine beings. It's an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature.
4 Caladesi Island State Park
Escape to the pristine paradise of Caladesi Island State Park, just a short boat ride away from Clearwater Beach. Immerse yourself in untouched nature, walk along pristine sandy beaches, and explore nature trails. Marvel at the diverse wildlife and enjoy the serenity of this unspoiled barrier island. It's a true oasis for relaxation and natural beauty.
5 Sea Life Safari
Embark on a Sea Life Safari adventure at Clearwater Beach! Climb aboard a safari boat and set off on a thrilling journey to encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Learn about their fascinating behaviors and conservation efforts while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. It's an educational and awe-inspiring experience for all ages.
Best Time to Visit Clearwater Beach
The best time to visit Clearwater Beach is during the shoulder season, from March to May and September to November. During these months, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures, avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower prices on accommodations. If you want to avoid the heat, we recommend visiting in the early morning or late afternoon. You can also plan your visit during the week, instead of weekends, to avoid a lot of tourists. Come and enjoy the breathtaking sunset and clear waters at Clearwater Beach!
Clearwater Beach Opening Hours
- The Beach is open 24/7.
- You can access the beach at night but it is not recommended for safety reasons.
- The beach is never closed but some facilities like restrooms and shower stations are closed during maintenance.
Getting There
Bus
The bus is a great way to travel to Clearwater Beach! Simply take the Lynx bus from Downtown Orlando to the Clearwater Beach Transit Center, then hop on the Jolley Trolley to reach your final destination. The entire trip takes approximately 3 hours and is quite affordable.
Car
Clearwater Beach is easily accessible by car, with various routes leading to the area. If you're coming from Tampa, you can take the Courtney Campbell Causeway (State Road 60) or the Howard Frankland Bridge (Interstate 275). If you're driving from St. Petersburg, the most common route is via the Clearwater Memorial Causeway (State Road 60).
Water Taxi
For a unique and scenic experience, you can also consider taking a water taxi to Clearwater Beach. The Clearwater Beach Ferry offers water taxi services from downtown Clearwater to Clearwater Beach, providing a delightful journey across the beautiful waters of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Insider Tips to Visit Clearwater Beach
- Try the locally caught seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants, such as Frenchy's or Clear Sky Beachside Cafe.
- Don't forget your sunscreen and beach gear, as rental prices at the beach can be expensive.
- Take a dolphin watching tour for a chance to see these beautiful creatures up close.
- Visit Pier 60 for the nightly sunset celebration, which includes live music and street performers.
- Rent a bike or scooter to explore the beach and nearby town of Dunedin.
Restaurants Near Clearwater Beach
Located right on the beach, Frenchy's Rockaway Grill offers a delicious seafood menu with stunning ocean views. Their famous Grouper Sandwich and She Crab Soup are a must-try!
Don't miss out on the beachside dining experience at Palm Pavilion. Their fresh seafood options and tropical cocktails pair perfectly with the beautiful Gulf of Mexico views. Try the Coconut Shrimp or the Caribbean Salad.
For a fun and casual atmosphere, Crabby's is the perfect spot. Located on the scenic Beach Walk, they offer a varied menu with seafood favorites like the Crabby's Seafood Platter and the Lobster Roll.
For a quick and delicious meal inside Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Landscape of Flavors is a must-go. With a global menu including salads, pasta and even specialty cocktails, this eatery satisfies all cravings.
Places to Stay Near Clearwater Beach
Things to Do Near Clearwater Beach
Located 25 miles away from Clearwater Beach, Busch Gardens is a must-go destination for thrill-seekers, animal lovers, and families. With exciting rides, animal encounters, and stunning shows, this adventure park promises a fun-filled day for everyone.
Just a 20-minute drive from Clearwater Beach, Tarpon Springs is a scenic waterfront town known for its vibrant sponge industry, historic charm, and delicious Greek cuisine. Take a sponge diving tour or a stroll around the Sponge Docks for a delightful cultural experience.
Located only 3 miles away, this aquarium is home to the famous Winter the Dolphin, star of the movie "Dolphin Tale." Visitors can see rescued sea creatures up close and learn about marine conservation at this family-friendly attraction.
Accessible only by boat from Clearwater Beach, this pristine island is a slice of paradise with white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and nature trails. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, hiking, and picnicking in a secluded and peaceful setting.
Just a 30-minute drive from Clearwater Beach, St. Petersburg's downtown is a vibrant and cultural hub with shops, restaurants, museums, and parks. Check out the Salvador Dali Museum, The Chihuly Collection, and the Florida Holocaust Museum for a dose of art and history.
FAQs
It’s usually sunny and warm year-round, with temperatures ranging from mid-60s°F in winter to high-80s°F in summer.
It gets busy during peak season from January to March, but it’s less crowded during weekdays and off-peak periods.
Some of the best things to do on Clearwater Beach include relaxing on the beach, dolphin watching, engaging in water sports, visiting Pier 60, exploring the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and enjoying waterfront dining.
Definitely! The beach is safe, clean and has lots of fun activities for kids and adults.
Yes, there are plenty of seafood restaurants, bars, cafes and ice-cream shops to choose from.
Drive for about 2 hours, take a bus or shuttle service, or join a guided tour to get there.
Yes, you can visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Honeymoon Island State Park, or go on a dolphin-watching cruise.
