By John, a Florida-based beach nerd who’s visited Clearwater six times and counting
Planning your first Clearwater Beach trip? I’ve been six times, and I’m here to help you skip the tourist traps and make the most of this Gulf Coast gem. The sand feels like powdered sugar, the sunsets are unreal, and the vibe is way chiller than Miami. Just 25 miles from Tampa, Clearwater Beach is perfect for families, couples, or anyone craving sun and seafood. Here’s my personal guide to doing it right—based on real visits, real meals, and real moments that stuck with me.
Why Clearwater Beach Feels Special
Clearwater’s not just another beach—it’s got this relaxed, almost small-town feel that’s hard to find in Florida. The sand’s so soft it squeaks, the water’s calm and clear, and Pier 60 turns into a free party every sunset. Travel + Leisure ranked it #15 worldwide in 2025, and I get why. My first visit, I expected a crowded tourist trap like St. Pete Beach, but Clearwater’s cleaner, quieter, and perfect for kicking back. Families love it, couples get romantic vibes, and solo travelers like me can just chill without the chaos.
My Top 6 Things to Do
These are my must-dos, based on what’s made every trip memorable. I’ve included some pro tips from trial and error.
1. Lounge on the Beach
Show up before 10 a.m. to claim a good spot—by noon, it’s a sea of towels. The sand’s so fine it feels like walking on flour, and the shallow Gulf water is perfect for floating. I once spent a whole afternoon building sandcastles with my niece—lifeguards keep things safe, and the beach is spotless. Pro tip: Rent a chair from a vendor near Pier 60, but bring your own sunscreen. I got roasted my first visit.
2. Catch a Sunset at Pier 60
Pier 60’s nightly sunset festival is pure magic. A fire-juggler stealing the show, kids eating ice cream, and artisans selling handmade jewelry while the sky turns pink. My favorite memory? Sipping a cold drink while a guitarist played Jimmy Buffett covers as the sun dipped below the Gulf. Get there early for a good view—it’s free and unforgettable.
3. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
This isn’t a flashy theme park—it’s a rescue center with soul. My niece lost it over a sea turtle named Mo, who’d been rehabbed after a boat injury. The dolphin encounters are heartwarming, and the staff’s passion shines through. It’s a short walk from the beach, and I always leave feeling good. Book tickets online to skip lines—learned that the hard way.
4. Spot Dolphins on a Boat Tour
I booked a 2-hour trip with The Tropics Boat Tours out of Clearwater Marina, and dolphins literally chased our boat for 15 minutes. The captain pointed out their names like they were old friends. Even if you don’t see dolphins (rare), the Gulf views are stunning. Bring a hat—the sun’s brutal on the water.
5. Eat Fresh Seafood
Clearwater’s food scene is next-level. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is my obsession—their grouper sandwich is crispy perfection, though the fries were cold both times I went. For sunset vibes, Palm Pavilion serves seafood platters with live music. I still dream about their crab legs.
6. Ride the Jolley Trolley
The Jolley Trolley is a cheap, fun way to explore Clearwater and nearby Dunedin. My last ride, the driver cracked dad jokes that had everyone laughing. It hits shops, restaurants, and beaches, so you can skip the car. Hop on near Pier 60—cash or card works.
Nearby Adventures Worth the Trip
Here are some spots I’ve explored nearby, each with its own flavor.
- Florida Botanical Gardens (12 miles away): Free, flower-filled, and peaceful. I go when I need a break from salty air and screaming kids.
- Honeymoon Island State Park (11 miles north): Quiet beaches and trails where I once spotted an eagle mid-hike—way cooler than I expected. It’s $8 per car and perfect for a low-key day.
- Caladesi Island State Park (ferry from Honeymoon, $16): Feels like a secret hideout. I kayaked through mangroves and saw a heron up close. Pack snacks—the ferry ride’s short but hungry work.
- Sand Key Park (just south): Great for toddlers with a playground and calm waves. Honestly, I’d skip it for Honeymoon if time’s tight—it’s less special.
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (30 miles away): My nephew screamed his lungs out on the Cheetah Hunt coaster. It’s a haul, but a blast for thrill-seekers.
Getting There
Clearwater Beach sits on a barrier island, 25 miles west of Tampa. Fly into Tampa International (TPA, 21 miles) or St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE, 12 miles). From Tampa, it’s a 30-minute drive via Highway 60 or 90 minutes from Orlando on I-4. The PSTA Suncoast Beach Trolley is great for getting around without a car. Parking near Pier 60 or the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center runs $20-$30 a day—book early or you’re circling forever.
Weather and When to Go
Clearwater’s got 361 sunny days a year, but timing matters. I love September or October: hotels are cheaper, crowds are gone, and the weather’s warm (80s) without the summer’s sticky vibe. Quick 3 p.m. showers are common, so pack a light poncho. Winters (November to April) hit the 70s to mid-80s—perfect but busier. Summers (June to August) are low 90s and humid; I got drenched in sweat last July. Check forecasts during hurricane season (June to November). Pro tip: I burned to a crisp my first trip—pack SPF 50.
Where to Stay: My Top Picks
1. Sandpearl Resort
I booked Sandpearl’s cheapest room and still had a Gulf-view balcony—totally worth it. The zero-entry pool is a hit with kids, and Caretta on the Gulf serves a mean lobster dinner. It feels upscale but not stuffy.
2. Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
Steps from Pier 60 with a rooftop pool that’s pure Instagram gold. The suites are massive—I’d pick this for a family trip.
3. Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Two pools (one infinity) and super kid-friendly. The Beach Walk access makes beach days easy. I loved their sunset cocktail hour.
4. Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
Vibrant with oceanfront rooms and a lively poolside bar. It’s right by Pier 60, so you’re in the heart of the action.
5. Sheraton Sand Key Resort
Private beach, no resort fees, and a huge pool. Rusty’s Bistro feels like a hidden gem for dinner.
Where to Unwind: Top Spas
1. Spa at Sandpearl
Their seaweed wrap left me feeling like a new person, and the Gulf views during my massage were unreal. Book a couples session if you’re feeling romantic.
2. Hibiscus Spa at Hilton
Cozy with ocean views. The hot stone massage was so good I almost fell asleep—pool access made it a full-day treat.
3. Spa Oceanea at Wyndham Grand
The deep tissue massage saved my back after a long beach day. Aromatherapy’s a nice touch, but the ocean breeze steals the show.
4. Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
A 20-minute drive, but the mineral springs and hydrotherapy are worth it. Their tiki bar’s Mai Tais are my guilty pleasure.
5. Spa at Hyatt Regency
Rooftop views and a reflexology session that melted my stress. Perfect for a post-beach reset.
Where to Eat: My Favorite Spots
1. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
(7 Rockaway St.) That grouper sandwich is crispy, flaky perfection—best I’ve had in Florida. The fries? Skip ’em; they were cold both visits. The beachfront vibe and live music make up for it.
2. Caretta on the Gulf
(Sandpearl Resort, 500 Mandalay Ave.) Fancy sushi and seafood for a date night. Their ceviche reminded me of a trip to Miami—fresh and zesty. Pricey but worth it.
3. Columbia Restaurant
(1241 Gulf Blvd., Sand Key) Spanish since 1905. The 1905 salad, tossed tableside, is a show and a half. Waterfront views make it special.
4. Sharky’s Beach Bar
(391 Mandalay Ave.) My go-to for a quick burger and cold beer after the beach. It’s nothing gourmet, but the laid-back vibe hits right.
5. Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber
(447 Mandalay Ave.) Their crab cakes are rich and buttery, like my grandma’s Sunday dinners. Save room for the key lime pie—it’s a hug on a plate.
Craving more Florida foodie spots? Check out my guide to The 16 Best Restaurants in Tampa Bay
Why Families Love It
Clearwater’s a slam dunk for kids. The water’s shallow and calm—my nephew swam for hours without a worry. Pier 60’s playground and nightly festivals keep things fun, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium had my niece glued to the dolphin tanks. Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise turned my nephew into a pirate for a week—he still talks about “sword fighting.” Resorts like Sandpearl have kids’ clubs, and Sand Key Park’s picnic spots are great for a family chill day.
Is It Open at Night?
The beach is open 24/7, so you can stargaze or take a midnight walk. Pier 60’s sunset festivals run two hours before and after sundown—think live music and glowing skies. Bars like Frenchy’s keep the party going with drinks and tunes late into the night.
Final Thoughts
Clearwater Beach is my happy place. From dolphins flipping near my boat to sunsets that make me forget my phone, every trip feels like a reset. The hotels pamper you, the seafood’s fresh, and the sand’s unlike anywhere else. I’m already planning my next visit. If you want sun, good food, and zero stress, Clearwater’s calling.
Want more Florida beach ideas? Check out my guide to the Best Florida Beaches.
Need local travel tips? Plan your trip with the Clearwater Beach Official Site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Clearwater Beach have pink sand?
Nope—not like the Bahamas. But the white sand glows rosy at sunset, and it’s the softest I’ve ever walked on.
What’s the closest airport?
St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE) is 10 miles away, but Tampa International (TPA, 20 miles) has more flight options.
Is the beach private?
Mostly public with free access. Resorts like Sandpearl have private sections, but there’s tons of space for everyone.
