Clearwater Pass
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Clearwater Pass, from pristine beaches and serene islands to thrilling water adventures and unforgettable sunset...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Clearwater Pass
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Clearwater Pass, from pristine beaches and serene islands to thrilling water adventures and unforgettable sunsets.
"Clearwater Beach is the place they want you to go so you don’t crowd the actually nice areas."
🌅 Sunset Cruise Essential
Book a sunset cruise for stunning views! Many include open bars and buffets for a complete experience .
🚗 Jet Car Adventure
Try a jet car tour for a unique way to see Clearwater Beach and its coastline .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Caladesi Island State Park
North of Clearwater Beach
An undeveloped barrier island paradise, accessible by boat or a scenic walk. Pristine nature awaits!
Clearwater Pass Sunset Cruise
Clearwater Pass
Experience breathtaking golden hour views from the water. Many cruises offer open bars and buffets!
Jet Car Tour
Clearwater Beach Marina
Drive a unique jet car for an exhilarating way to explore the coastline and enjoy the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Clearwater Pass & Beach Access
Best Time for Sun & Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Cruise Essential
Book a sunset cruise for stunning views! Many include open bars and buffets for a complete experience.
🚗 Jet Car Adventure
Try a jet car tour for a unique way to see Clearwater Beach and its coastline.+1
🏝️ Escape to Caladesi Island
Take a boat or walk to this undeveloped gem for a serene beach escape away from the crowds.
🍹 Happy Hour Hotspot
Enjoy happy hour at The Sandbar at Opal Sands Resort for beachside drinks and a pet-friendly vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Cruise Essential
Book a sunset cruise for stunning views! Many include open bars and buffets for a complete experience.
🚗 Jet Car Adventure
Try a jet car tour for a unique way to see Clearwater Beach and its coastline.+1
🏝️ Escape to Caladesi Island
Take a boat or walk to this undeveloped gem for a serene beach escape away from the crowds.
🍹 Happy Hour Hotspot
Enjoy happy hour at The Sandbar at Opal Sands Resort for beachside drinks and a pet-friendly vibe.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Launch Family Entertainment offers trampoline park fun, perfect for kids during summer breaks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clearwater Pass and its surrounding beaches are widely praised for their stunning natural beauty, especially the sunsets and access to Caladesi Island. Visitors enjoy a variety of activities, from relaxing on the sand to thrilling jet car rides and scenic boat tours. However, some find the beach can be overly crowded and parking challenging during peak times.
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clearwater Pass is best accessed by boat. Many tours depart from Clearwater Beach Marina, offering scenic routes and opportunities to see marine life.
Yes, the Jolley Trolley provides service along the beach and to surrounding areas, making it easy to get around without a car.
For a unique experience, consider a jet car tour to drive along the coast.+1 Boat tours are also highly recommended for enjoying the pass and nearby islands.
Parking is available at Clearwater Beach, but it can be limited and costly, especially during peak season. Arriving early or using ride-sharing services is advised.
Yes, Caladesi Island State Park can be reached by a scenic 2-mile walk from the northern end of Clearwater Beach, or by ferry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Clearwater Beach itself is a public beach and generally free to access. However, parking fees apply, and some activities or attractions may require tickets.
Sunset cruise prices vary, but some offer great value. For example, a cruise from Calypso Cruises can be around $52.90 and includes an open bar and buffet.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Caladesi Island State Park. Check the official Florida State Parks website for current pricing and operating hours.
Absolutely! Numerous vendors along Clearwater Beach offer rentals for chairs, umbrellas, and other beach equipment, making your day more comfortable.
Launch Family Entertainment typically operates daily, with extended hours during summer. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy sunset cruises, fishing charters, or simply admire the views. For a thrill, try a jet car tour.
Clearwater Beach can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Visiting on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons can offer a more relaxed experience.
Families will love Launch Family Entertainment for trampoline fun, or a visit to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (home of Winter the Dolphin). Beach days are also a hit!
While some areas of Clearwater Beach are pet-friendly, it's essential to check specific regulations as rules can vary. The Sandbar at Opal Sands Resort is noted as pet-friendly.
Keep an eye out for dolphins, various seabirds, and if you visit Caladesi Island, you might spot manatees or sea turtles in their natural habitat.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Clearwater Beach offers a wide range of dining options, from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants. Many offer fresh seafood with stunning water views.+1
Yes, The Sandbar at Opal Sands Resort is a popular spot for happy hour with beach views. Many other establishments also offer daily specials.
Picnics are generally allowed on Clearwater Beach, but be mindful of regulations regarding alcohol and waste disposal. Some food vendors offer convenient beachside options.
Consider Bar Tiki for island-style small plates and cocktails with marina views, or The Sandbar for a beachfront happy hour experience.
Many restaurants along Clearwater Beach cater to families, offering kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere. Casual eateries and pizza places are abundant.
📸 📸 Photography
Clearwater Pass and the beaches offer spectacular sunset views. Sunset cruises provide unique vantage points from the water.
Capture the thrill of a jet car tour or the serene beauty of Caladesi Island. The iconic Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge also makes for a great shot.
The 'golden hour' shortly after sunrise and before sunset provides the softest, most flattering light for beach photography.
Absolutely! Boat tours offer fantastic perspectives of the coastline, pass, and marine life, perfect for memorable photos.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations, especially near beaches and state parks. Always check local FAA and park rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your beach day, consider renting beach chairs and umbrellas for comfort, and look for restaurants with kid-friendly menus to make dining easier. While the main beach can be busy, exploring nearby areas or visiting during weekdays can offer a more relaxed experience. Don't forget to pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated!
💰 Budget Travelers
While some activities like jet car tours or premium sunset cruises can be pricey, there are budget-friendly alternatives. Enjoying a picnic on the beach
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 Opt for a cruise that includes an open bar and dinner for a truly special evening, watching the sky paint itself in vibrant colors over the Gulf of Mexico. Another romantic option is a leisurely stroll along the beach during the golden hour, capturing beautiful photos as the light softens.Consider a stay at a beachfront hotel like Opal Sands Resort, which offers stunning views and amenities like The Sandbar, a pet-friendly spot perfect for enjoying cocktails with your significant other.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Caladesi Island State Park
Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, shelling, and exploring nature trails. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities, allowing exploration of the island's calm waters and hidden coves. The park also features picnic areas and a small cafe. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a more secluded and natural beach experience, far from the crowds.
Remember to pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as amenities are limited. The journey to Caladesi Island itself is part of the adventure, offering stunning coastal views and a sense of discovery. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the untouched beauty of the Florida coastline.
Sunset Cruises: A Clearwater Must-Do
+1 These cruises are perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking to unwind and soak in the coastal beauty.Many sunset cruises, like those offered by Calypso Cruises, include amenities such as an open bar with select beers, wines, and rum punch, along with a buffet dinner.
This makes for a complete evening of entertainment and dining with unparalleled views. The golden hour light casts a magical glow over the water, creating unforgettable photo opportunities.+1Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. It's a fantastic way to see the coastline from a different perspective and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Clearwater Beach at dusk. The gentle rocking of the boat and the stunning natural spectacle make for a truly memorable experience.
Unique Adventures: Jet Cars and More
Companies like Wet Rentals and Tours offer these jet car experiences, providing a guided adventure that lets you feel the wind in your hair as you navigate the turquoise waters. It's a fantastic activity for thrill-seekers and anyone looking to add an element of excitement to their beach vacation.
Beyond jet cars, Clearwater offers other unique activities such as dolphin-watching tours and fishing charters, catering to a variety of interests. These excursions provide opportunities to engage with the marine environment and create lasting memories.
Social
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