Enjoy The Best of Clearwater Beach! Clearwater Beach is an easy 29 mile drive from Tampa International Airport and even closer to Clearwater/St. Petersburg International Airport. The beach has sugar white sands that you will only experience at Clearwater Beach. Whether you enjoy world-class fishing charters, relaxing on the beach, unique food and beverage experiences or visiting one of the many spa’s, there is something for everyone. Their accommodations offer many options, from mom-and-pop establishments to world class resorts. A visit to Pier 60 is highly recommended for one of their nightly festivals.
Even with all the activities Clearwater Beach has to offer, the best part of your trip might be as simple as a stroll on the beach at sunset. Clearwater Beach is an award winning beach voted among the “most beautiful beaches in the world” by Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today, “Dr. Beach” and FamilyTravelForum.com. You can check out the beaches of the Clearwater/St Pete Beach area here to find a good location to stay or visit us on Pinterest.
Clearwater Beach Weather (Best Time To Go)
The best time to visit Clearwater Beach is between October and December. During these months, you’ll find low humidity, fewer tourists and many holiday events to experience. However, October and November technically fall within the Atlantic hurricane season, and even though they are not peak hurricane months, you should be aware of the possibility of a storm developing. July, August and September’s frequent rainstorms and January, February and March’s high volume of snowbirds (retirees and part-time residents from the northern U.S.) make summer and winter two seasons to avoid. If viewing wildlife is your main objective, consider visiting in April, May or June when migratory birds, stingrays and sea turtles are commonly spotted. While the area is different every season, Clearwater Beach benefits from warm weather year-round.
Best Clearwater Area Beaches
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater BeachVoted the #1 beach in American for many years, Clearwater Beach lures visitors with its inviting waters, striking white sands and exceptional amenities. From volleyball activities to nightly activities, this world-class beach is also full of life and energy.
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Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi Island State ParkLooking for an untouched and serene beach near Clearwater? Take a day trip to Caladesi Island State Park. With its laid-back and pristine environment, this state park will give you a soothing and therapeutic beach escape. Amenities are a bit limited, it does have some facilities.
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Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto ParkFort De Soto Park is a great beach for families. It has warm, calm and emerald ocean waters and it’s even the safest beach for kids in Clearwater. The park also has a pirate-themed playground with some cool-spooky chambers.
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Sand Key Park
Sand Key ParkSand Key Park is perfect for families, and has convenient facilities. With seasonal lifeguards, a playground and cabanas, the park guarantees a relaxing and stress-free day under the sun. There are also water sports activities here to include surfing, paddle boarding or kayaking on the park’s sparkling turquoise waters.
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Honeymoon Island State Park
Honeymoon Island State ParkHoneymoon Island State Park has a beautiful shoreline. It’s home to one of the state’s prettiest beaches. The park features a nature center and a picnic area and a 2.5-mile trail for hiking. There’s also a concession with a gift store and a smorgasbord of goodies.
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Best Restaurants on Clearwater Beach
Island Way Grill $11 – 30
This seafood restaurant specializing in Japanese cuisine should not be missed. Indulge in some freshly caught lobster and crab legs on the outdoor patio overlooking blue waters lined with palm trees. The restaurant staff catch their own fish, which are featured under the catch of the day on the menu and can be prepared in one of six different ways. Alternatively, sit inside and check out the impressive raw fish bar, a testament to the freshness of this restaurant’s ingredients. In addition to a variety of seafood and sushi, Island Way Grill offers quintessential southern favorites like deviled eggs, blackened grilled chicken, and succulent rib-eye steaks. For vegetarians there are substantial salads featuring grilled fruits and veggies. Don’t forget to finish with the key lime pie. Telephone: 727-461-6617 Web: Island Way Grill
Crabby Bill’s $11 – 30
This neon-lit fishing shack is the perfect place to roll up straight from the beach. At Crabby Bill’s, seafood is the star of the menu — from typical clams and oysters, to the New Orleans-style po’boy stuffed with grouper. Those looking to challenge their threshold for heat can order the Volcano Gator with Inferno Sauce, made with ghost chili pepper. For something a bit cooler, try Crabby’s twist on the hipster staple of avocado toast made with shrimp and feta, served on garlic toast. Happy hour is an all-day affair, starting at 11 a.m. and ending at 7 p.m. Telephone: 727-210-1313 Web: Crabby Bill’s
Salty’s Island Bar & Grille $11 – 30
Serving hand-crafted signature cocktails and Chef-Inspired Island cuisine. Have a seat on their second story patio with scenic views of beautiful Clearwater Beach, or enjoy their large bar on the first floor, providing hourly specials, and live music daily. Telephone: 727-216-8085 WEb: Salty’s Island Bar & Grille.
Caretta on the Gulf $31 – 60
Savor fresh local flavors and an elegant ambiance at Sandpearl Resort’s Caretta on the Gulf. Named for the loggerhead sea turtles that grace our shores, Caretta on the Gulf invites guests to experience Clearwater’s only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant. Breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico are complemented by fresh, seasonally inspired cuisine. In addition to Caretta’s standard menu, they are also pleased to offer an all-natural, organic menu with expertly paired organic wines. Telephone: 727-441-2425 Web: Caretta on the Gulf.
Clear Sky Beachside Cafe $11 – 30
Breakfast at Clear Sky Beachside Cafe is served with an upscale twist (by the way, you can get great Mimosas and Bloody Marys with your breakfast). Lunch and Dinner menus offer an extensive mix of Tapas Appetizers, Gourmet Pizzas, Signature Paninis, Burgers and Salads. Enjoy the Freshest Seafood on the beach, including “en papillote.” Their award winning menu offers a culinary tour of the world’s best flavors all in one friendly cafe conveniently located in Clearwater Beach, Florida! Telephone: 727-442-3684 Web: Clear Sky Cafe.
Clearwater Beach Nightlife
The Bait House Tackle & Tavern
Open since the 1940s, The Bait House Tackle & Tavern is located in the marina on beautiful Clearwater Beach. They offer the freshest fish, highest quality tackle and gear, and some of the best food on the beach. Their daily menu features fresh, locally caught seafood, with an assortment of beers and wine. Stop by for a cold beer or to enjoy dinner while you watch a beautiful sunset on our deck. Go by boat and take the whole family! Telephone: 727-446-8134 Web: The Bait House Tackle & Tavern
Salty’s Island Bar & Grill
Serving hand-crafted signature cocktails and Chef-Inspired Island cuisine. Have a seat on their second story patio with scenic views of beautiful Clearwater Beach, or enjoy their large bar on the first floor, providing hourly specials, and live music daily. Telephone: 727-216-8085 Web: Salty’s Island Bar & Grill
Surfside Tap House
Clearwater Beach has long been a haven for year-round fun and is annually voted among the Top 10 Beaches in America. Their special focus is on Craft Beer with a wide assortment of local Tampa Bay area Breweries as well as unique Crafts from Florida and across the Country. They also pour the ABCs of the world’s best Macro Breweries. They feature an indoor/outdoor Bar, outdoor seating, amazing live Entertainment daily and a spacious inside area with Hi-Def flat screen TVs. Telephone: 727-201-3530 Web: Surfside Tap House.
Tropix Island Tiki Bar
A perfect place to unwind and relax, Tropix Island Tiki Bar is located directly on the sugar-white sands of Clearwater Beach. Along with breathtaking views of the water, the Tropix Island beach bar offers a full beverage menu as well as a delicious selection of snacks and finger foods. The bar is also a great spot to catch some seasonal live entertainment! Dining options include nachos, wings, onion rings, burgers, wraps, fries, and plenty more mouth-watering fare – all at reasonable prices. Telephone: 727-442-7171 Web: Tropix Island Tiki Bar
Tommy’s Tiki
Stay hydrated with cold beverages from Tommy’s Tiki Bar. They offer beachside service along with beautiful sunsets. Sand Bar & Grill has diverse dishes that can be enjoyed poolside. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available at Carambola with inside drinks at Coasters Lounge. Telephone: 727-451-1126 Web: Tommy’s Tiki.
Best Clearwater Beach Hotels
I have been to Clearwater Beach but there are so many things in this article that I didn’t know about! Sky surfing sounds awesome. I may have to look into it more. Also the deep sea fishing caught my eye. I’ve always wished I lived just a little bit closer to the coast. Thank you for all the helpful information.
You are welcome Kenton. Yes, sky surfing is great! Heck anything at Clearwater beach is great! I love deep sea fishing. It is probably the only kind of fishing I will do 🙂
Hi there, well the photo alone at the top of this page wants me to dive right into that sea. It looks glorious. When I think of visiting the states, I automatically think of NYC, Boston or Chicago. The beaches here however are to die for. The activities also sounds fantastic- the jet ski being one of my favourite things to do on holiday. You have really got me in a very happy holiday mood after reading your post. thanks!
You are very welcome Paula! Yes, I have to say that Clearwater and St. Pete are both wonderful and beautiful beaches that everyone should enjoy at least once. For me, I can’t stop at just going once 🙂
your site is really good. My children looked while I pulled it up. My youngest is a daredevil she liked the wind surfing. I noticed you had a ton of response about the dolphin part so my question is Would you consider do another web site just specializing in dolphin activities. I am just curious.
Yes, I could do a post on dolphins. Everybody likes them 🙂 Thank you for visiting!
Leahrae, What a great website you have. Everything is perfect. It gets me to really consider planning a beach holiday specifically. Beautiful. But first I need to get my beach body and at my age, man oh man what a challenge. I wish you all the success and I will definitely refer back to your website when I’m ready. Way to go girl!
Ok Dennis! You let me know if you have any questions or need help with travel. I am pretty good at finding the best rates. Thanks for visiting Beach Travel Destinations
Wow Clearwater looks like paradise.
What are the restaurants like around the area? One of my favourite things to do on holiday is to go out for meals and this looks like my kind of place.
I was in Miami in June and the weather was pretty bad: we had a tropical storm. When is the best time to visit Clearwater to avoid these conditions?
Well they say that the coast is hurricane prone from June thru November. I have been many times during those months. I have never had a tropical storm hit. The food is fantastic. I’d say you get a good mix of seafood, southern food, and of course key lime pie. Personally, I love the grouper sandwich, which is popular down that way. Thank you for reading Craig!
I would love to take advantage of this vacation!! Of all the places to be able to visit, Florida is always on my top 10. The beaches are gorgeous, you don’t need a passport!, and the temperatures are always amazing. Like you said, it is close to Tampa (which is also an awesome place too), which is so convenient when traveling. The pictures alone make me want to hop on a plane and get there right away! 🙂
Then you should do it Jessie! I can guarantee that if you like the sun, sand, sea and beaches, you will love Florida. Thank you for reading the Clearwater Beach Vacation Guide!
Thank you for this article about the clearwater beach vacation guide!
I am considering a vacation next year to the United States and after reading your article, this is definitely number one on my list.
I do love the beach, and this looks like an awesome destination.
There are some really great activities to do as well, and I am really interested in seeing the Dolphins!
Thanks for bring this destination to my attention!
~John
Thank you John for visiting Beach Travel Destinations! Clearwater is a wonderful beach destination. You cannot beat Florida for the sunshine and the ocean.
Oh my god, Ive been to almost every state in the US, and have yet to visit florida. I am a sucker for beaches, I love warm weather, sun, being outside, and most of all, beaches! I love the fact that its always warm. And I love that you offer information on air fair and hotel. This may be my next destination!
Great Skylet! Florida is wonderful! If you need any additional information, please let me know and than you for reading about Clearwater Beaches!
Leahrae I think Beach Travel Destinations is a great site that is very well presented and easy to have a look around. For anyone looking for different options on holiday ideas this would make most interesting reading.
With many helpful tips on saving money, with airfares and places to stay would be a great help with planning a budget.
Living in Australia and have seen many beaches here at home I know many of them and can see this site is well done
Thank you so much Peter! I am glad you enjoyed your visit. Please come again, and if you ever need help putting together a beach vacation, please let me know.
Hahaha…when I was reading through your article, the first thing that really caught my attention was dolphins! I would really love to see them in the ocean, rather than behind a glass.
It seems like there are plenty of amazing eating places around at Clearwater beach. This is great, because after a whole day of surfing and swimming, I will surely want to relax and have an awesome dinner!
Great review!
I love watching the dolphins. We always do jet skis and with them, always come up close with dolphins. They are truly beautiful animals for sure. Thanks for reading Farhan!
Wow, looks stunning! I spent a few months travelling through Florida many moons ago. I explored the Everglades, Key West, and a few other off the beaten path locations.
I planned on making my way to Clearwater Beach but never ended up getting there. I am hoping to go back to Florida this winter. I’ll definitely keep your site on my radar when the time approaches.
Thanks for putting together such an awesome resource! I always wanted to experience swimming with dolphins but would only do so with a reputable guide. Do you happen to know of any reputable places that facilitate swimming with dolphins?
Thanks,
Joy
Hi Joy, I am glad you liked my Clearwater Beach Vacation Guide. A good (and reputable) dolphin tour is going to be the Florida Aquarium’s Wild Dolphin Eco Tour in Tampa. I would definitely go with them. Let me know if I can assist you in any other way.
The last time i tried deep sea fishing was i guess a long 8 months a go, that is really such a long time, by all means. Maybe I have grown old… I am considering revisiting my long lost time buster now, after reading in your site. Queen Fleet is top on my list for now. Thank you for this concise sneak peak. Great travel guide info on the Clearwater Beach area!
You are very welcome. I love deep sea fishing. I actually don’t care for fishing with a rod off the shore, LOL. Thank you for visiting Beach Travel Destinations.
The last time i tried deep sea fishing was i guess a long 8 months a go, that is really such a long time, by all means. May be I have grown old… I am considering revisiting my long lost time buster now, after reading in your site. Queen Fleet is top on my list for now.Thank you for this concise sneak peak.
O boy vacation time who would like not to hear about vacation. I get so excited about vacation especially if i am travelling. But it is god to know were to go inorder for your trip planning to be more easy like your website that talks about travel guide, Your website is very beautiful and colorful, great job and keep up the good work.
Thank you Norman for reading the Clearwater Beach Vacation Guide. I am glad you found it useful. Please let me know if you need anything else.