The Best of Clearwater Beach

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.

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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

Voted 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

Looking 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 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 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 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