Things To Do
in Clearwater
Clearwater, Florida sits on the Gulf Coast just west of Tampa, famed for its sugar-white sands and clear emerald waters. Clearwater Beach is the standout draw, with a lively promenade, shallow shorelines, and sunset views over the Gulf. The city blends a relaxed beach vibe with a growing downtown scene of restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
Expect warm weather most of the year, with seasonal humidity and occasional tropical showers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the soft, white sands of Clearwater Beach, feeling the cool breeze on your skin. Stop by a local café for a delicious breakfast, enjoying fresh fruit and a strong cup of coffee while overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. As the sun rises higher, take a moment to soak in the stunning views and prepare for a day of adventure.
After breakfast, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm waters of the bay and enjoy the beautiful scenery. For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants, savoring the flavors of the local catch. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun, swimming in the warm waters, or taking part in beach games like volleyball.
As the sun sets, head to Pier 60 for the nightly sunset celebration featuring local artisans, musicians, and street performers. Grab a bite from one of the food vendors while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a romantic stroll along the pier, watching the sky transform with colors as the sun dips below the horizon.
Set sail on a ferry from Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island State Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature. Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll along the pristine beach, searching for unique shells and beach treasures. Experience the tranquility of the island as you enjoy the soft sounds of the waves and the calls of seabirds.
After exploring the beach, venture onto the nature trails that meander through the island, offering glimpses of local wildlife and stunning views of the waterways. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under the shade of the trees, with the sounds of nature providing a peaceful backdrop. Spend the afternoon swimming or simply relaxing on the beach, with the opportunity to spot dolphins in the distance.
Return to Clearwater for a seafood dinner at a popular waterfront restaurant, where fresh dishes and sunset views await. As night falls, take a scenic drive along the coast, stopping at scenic overlooks to appreciate the moonlit waters. Wrap up your day with a cozy evening at a beach bonfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-200 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly estimate) | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere
- Wide range of dining options and easy access to nature parks
- Can get crowded in peak season; prices rise during holidays
- Hurricane season brings weather unpredictability and potential disruptions
Places to Visit in Clearwater
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sunset views, fishing pier, and the lively promenade; perfect for sunset silhouettes and cityscapes.
Pristine beaches, mangroves, and turquoise water; ideal for wide-angle coastal shots.
Quiet lakeside boardwalks; wildlife and reflection photography near downtown Clearwater.
Bridged vantage point over the water with skyline and sea spray imagery.
Boats, palm trees, and sunset reflections along the marina; dynamic waterfront photography.
Food in Clearwater
Clearwater Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh Gulf grouper on soft bread with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce; a Clearwater Beach staple found at many shacks and sit-down spots.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried conch morsels served with citrus or remoulade, a popular starter at beachfront eateries.
Sweet, meaty claws often served chilled or warm with mustard sauce, available at select seafood joints.
Bright, tangy pie with a graham crust, widely available in most beachside restaurants.
Herby Cuban bread filled with roasted pork, ham, cheese, pickles and mustard; a Tampa Bay classic within reach at local delis.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air market on weekends with fresh produce, seafood bites, and local crafts along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect lifeguards and posted rules; keep noise reasonable and remember to clean up after yourself.
Tip in cash when possible or add to card charge; be patient during busy times.
Do not feed wildlife; preserve dunes and habitats; stay on designated trails.
Safety
Tipping in Clearwater
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically add 15-20% gratuity; for service at bars or casual spots, round up or leave 10-15%.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; some smaller vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and occasional tropical storms; bring sunscreen, hydrate often, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
Warm days with milder evenings; hurricane season winds down and seas can be calmer for boating.
Pleasantly warm days and cool evenings; peak tourist season but oftentimes less crowded than holidays.
Pleasant temperatures; good conditions for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing; expect some rain showers.
Clearwater at Night
Hiking in Clearwater
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nature trails and coastal boardwalks with scenic dunes and mangroves.
Seaside trails with views of the Gulf and diverse birdlife.
Easy loops through wetlands and wooded areas near downtown Clearwater.
Airports
How to reach Clearwater by plane.
Major international airport about 22-30 miles southeast, roughly a 25-40 minute drive depending on traffic.
Close-by regional airport about 15-20 miles south, convenient for domestic flights.
Further south, 40-60 miles away, smaller but useful for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for kid-friendly beaches and activities.
A sizable retiree population enjoys the warm climate and relaxed lifestyle.
Snowbirds and seasonal residents contribute to fluctuating population and local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common on Clearwater Beach and at beach clubs.
Saltwater fishing from piers and charters is popular along the coast.
Active boating scene with charters, rentals, and marina activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Clearwater.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Clearwater restaurants offer veggie burgers, salads, and seafood-free dishes; look for grilled vegetables, pasta, and plant-based bowls; ask for customization and dairy-free options.