Clearwater Beach
Renowned for its powdery white sands and clear Gulf waters, Clearwater Beach offers a vibrant beach experience with lively entertainment and stunning ...
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Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Clearwater Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Renowned for its powdery white sands and clear Gulf waters, Clearwater Beach offers a vibrant beach experience with lively entertainment and stunning sunsets.
"Consistently ranked as one of America's best beaches, Clearwater Beach dazzles with its pristine white sand and lively Pier 60."
🌅 Catch the Sunset at Pier 60
Don't miss the nightly sunset celebrations with street performers and artisans. :performing_arts:
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early or consider garages. Ride-sharing is a good alternative. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Sand Beaches
The main stretch of Clearwater Beach
Miles of powdery white sand and clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
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Pier 60
Western end of Clearwater Beach
Iconic pier with stunning sunsets, street performers, craft vendors, and fishing opportunities.
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Dolphin Watching Cruises
Various tour operators depart from the marina
Exciting boat tours offering chances to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset at Pier 60
Don't miss the nightly sunset celebrations with street performers and artisans.
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early or consider garages. Ride-sharing is a good alternative. :car:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. The Florida sun is strong! :sunwithface:
🐬 Dolphin Cruise Adventure
Book a dolphin watching tour for a fun-filled experience on the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset at Pier 60
Don't miss the nightly sunset celebrations with street performers and artisans.
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early or consider garages. Ride-sharing is a good alternative. :car:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. The Florida sun is strong! :sunwithface:
🐬 Dolphin Cruise Adventure
Book a dolphin watching tour for a fun-filled experience on the water.
🍽️ Delicious Seafood
Try local favorites like grouper sandwiches at beachfront restaurants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clearwater Beach is widely praised for its stunning white sand and beautiful turquoise waters, consistently earning top rankings. Visitors love the lively atmosphere of Pier 60, especially during sunset, and the abundance of family-friendly activities. Some find parking challenging and can be put off by the crowds during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clearwater Beach is located west of Tampa on Florida's West Coast. You can drive there, with several parking garages available. Alternatively, ride-sharing services are a convenient option. +1
While there isn't extensive public transit directly to the beach, the Jolley Trolley offers a scenic route around the Clearwater area, connecting to various points of interest.
Once you're at Clearwater Beach, walking is easy along the main strip. For exploring further, consider the Jolley Trolley or renting bikes.
Clearwater Beach is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Tampa International Airport (TPA), depending on traffic.
Some hotels and tour operators may offer shuttle services. It's best to check with your accommodation or tour provider for specific options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the beach itself is public and free to access. You only pay for parking and any amenities you choose to rent, like chairs or umbrellas.
Clearwater Beach is open 24/7, but amenities like shops and restaurants have their own operating hours. Pier 60's nightly sunset celebrations typically start a couple of hours before sunset.
Yes, numerous vendors along the beach offer rentals for chairs, umbrellas, and other beach equipment.
Pier 60 is free to enter and enjoy. There are costs associated with vendors and activities on the pier.
Clearwater Beach hosts various events, including the popular Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival. Check local listings for event schedules.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and water sports. Pier 60 offers entertainment, shopping, and sunset views. Dolphin watching cruises are also popular.
Absolutely! The calm waters are great for kids, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities and dining options.
Pier 60 is renowned for its spectacular sunsets, often accompanied by street performers and a lively atmosphere.
Yes, public restrooms and outdoor showers are available along the beach for visitor convenience.
Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a wide range of options, from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants. Seafood, especially grouper sandwiches, is a local specialty.
Yes, places like Speggtacular Cafe offer delicious breakfast options for those starting their day early.
Many beachfront restaurants offer stunning ocean views, perfect for enjoying a meal while watching the waves.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like pizza places and casual eateries.
Don't miss out on fresh seafood, particularly the famous grouper sandwich, a staple in Clearwater.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic Pier 60, vibrant sunsets, the expansive white sand beaches, and playful dolphins during boat tours.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography. Sunsets at Pier 60 are particularly photogenic.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the Clearwater Police Department or local authorities before flying a drone.
Look for the colorful beach access signs, the unique architecture of Pier 60, and candid shots of beachgoers enjoying the sun.
Clearwater Beach is a popular spot for engagement photos, with its beautiful scenery providing a romantic backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss out on a dolphin watching cruise, which is always a hit with kids. Pier 60 also offers entertainment that can captivate younger audiences. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and beach toys to ensure a comfortable and fun-filled day for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize free activities like enjoying the sunset at Pier 60, people-watching, and swimming. Walking or using the Jolley Trolley can save on transportation costs. Many casual eateries offer more budget-friendly meal options compared to upscale restaurants.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1Consider a sunset cruise for a truly memorable experience, perhaps even spotting dolphins together. Many beachfront restaurants offer intimate dining with ocean views, perfect for a romantic dinner. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it an ideal escape for couples.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Clearwater's White Sands
This unique sand composition is a key draw for visitors seeking a quintessential Florida beach experience. It's perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach games, or simply relaxing with a good book. The expansive nature of the beach means that even during busy periods, you can often find a comfortable spot to spread out your towel and soak up the sun.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the sand's texture is also gentle on the skin, making it ideal for families with young children. The overall pristine condition of the beach is maintained through regular cleaning efforts, ensuring a pleasant environment for all visitors.
Pier 60: The Heartbeat of Clearwater Beach
+1As the sun begins to set, Pier 60 transforms into a lively hub of activity. Nightly sunset celebrations feature a diverse array of street performers, from musicians and jugglers to magicians and artists. Local artisans also set up stalls, selling unique crafts and souvenirs, creating a festive and engaging atmosphere. It's the perfect place to unwind, enjoy live entertainment, and witness one of Florida's most breathtaking sunsets.
+2Beyond the sunset festivities, Pier 60 is also a popular spot for fishing, with rental equipment available. Visitors can also enjoy the large water slides and explore the surrounding shops and eateries. The pier serves as a central gathering point, embodying the fun and relaxation that Clearwater Beach is known for.
Navigating Clearwater Beach: Parking and Getting Around
For those who prefer not to drive or worry about parking, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and offer a stress-free alternative. Some visitors also opt for the Jolley Trolley, a charming local bus service that connects various points of interest around Clearwater, providing a scenic and convenient way to explore the area without the hassle of parking.
Once you're at the beach, getting around is generally easy. The main beach area is very walkable, allowing you to stroll along the shore, visit shops, and access restaurants. For longer distances or to explore beyond the immediate beach strip, the trolley or bike rentals are excellent options.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit