What makes Tampa’s Pink Sand Clearwater Beach — [Things to do, Timing, Hotel, Spa, Restaurants]

Clearwater Beach, near Tampa, Florida, has beautiful shores, but there’s no true pink sand beach here. Many confuse it with Pink Sands Beach on Harbour Island, Bahamas, which has pink sand from crushed coral shells. Clearwater Beach has soft white sand and clear water, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Clearwater Beach has sunny vibes, gentle waves, and fun activities like swimming, jet skiing, and sunset cruises. It’s a top spot for families and vacationers, with lively Pier 60 hosting nightly sunset celebrations. The beach is clean, and lifeguards are on duty.

Fly into Tampa International Airport (almost 21 miles away) or St. Pete-Clearwater Airport (almost 12 miles away). For a scenic route, drive via Highway 60 from Tampa. Ferries from Fort De Soto Park are another option.

6 Things to Do in Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach, Florida, is a sunny paradise with white sand and blue water. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for fun. Here are 6 simple and fun things to do when you visit this beach town, along with some nearby attractions to explore.

1. Relax on Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is famous for its soft sand and calm waves. Spend the day swimming, building sandcastles, or just lying under an umbrella. The beach is clean, and lifeguards are on duty. You can rent chairs or cabanas for comfort. It’s a great place to enjoy the sun and sea.

2. Watch Sunsets at Pier 60

Pier 60 is the heart of Clearwater Beach. Every evening, it hosts a free sunset celebration. You’ll see street performers, musicians, and craft vendors. Grab an ice cream and watch the sun dip into the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to end your day.

3. Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a must-see. It’s a rescue center for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine animals, not a typical aquarium. You can meet the rescued animals and hear their stories. Kids love the interactive tours, and it’s just a short walk from the beach.

4. Take a Dolphin-Watching Cruise

Dolphins love Clearwater’s waters! Take a boat tour from the Clearwater Marina for a dolphin-watching adventure. Boats like The Tropics Boat Tours offer 2-hour tours where you’ll see dolphins jumping near the boat. It’s fun for all ages and a great way to see the Gulf.

5. Fresh Seafood

Clearwater Beach has great seafood restaurants. Try Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill for their famous grouper sandwich right by the beach. Or visit Palm Pavilion for casual dining with live music and sunset views. The food is fresh, and the atmosphere is laid back.

6. Jolley Trolley

The Jolley Trolley is a fun way to see Clearwater Beach and nearby towns like Dunedin. This colorful trolley runs along the coast, stopping at shops, restaurants, and beaches. It’s affordable, and the drivers share local tips. Perfect if you don’t want to rent a car.

Nearby Attractions

Honeymoon Island State Park is 11 miles north of Clearwater Beach. It is a beautiful park with quiet beaches, nature trails, and birdwatching. While hiking, you might see dolphins or eagles. Admission is $8 per vehicle, making it a budget-friendly day trip.

Caladesi Island State Park is another gem, accessible by a $16 ferry from Honeymoon Island. It has picturesque beaches for a peaceful escape. You can kayak, fish, or walk trails to spot wildlife. It is great for nature lovers looking for calm.

Sand Key Park, right south of Clearwater Beach, is a 95-acre park with a playground and lifeguards. It is perfect for families. For thrill-seekers, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 30 miles away, has roller coasters and a zoo.

Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo, 12 miles away, is free and full of flowers. For more family-friendly beach ideas, check out Best Beaches Near Tampa for Families.

How to Get to Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is in Pinellas County, Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico. It is 25 miles west of downtown Tampa and south of St. Petersburg in the Tampa Bay area. The beach is on a barrier island, with Pier 60 as the central hub.

You can fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA), 21 miles away, or St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), 12 miles away. The drive from Tampa is 30 minutes on Highway 60 and 90 minutes from Orlando on Interstate 4. The Grouper Airport Express shuttle or the PSTA Suncoast Beach Trolley is public transportation.

Parking is available at the Pier 60 lot or Clearwater Beach Recreation Center, but it can cost $20-$30 per day. The beach is open 365 days a year with lifeguards on duty daily so you can visit anytime. For parking tips, see Long-Term Parking at Tampa Airport.

Clearwater Beach Weather

Clearwater Beach has warm, sunny weather year-round, with 361 days of sunshine. Winters (November to April) are mild, with temperatures in the low 70s to mid-80s. This peak tourist season is perfect for beach days without extreme heat. Summers (June to August) are hot, with highs in the low 90s and high humidity. Afternoon showers are common but usually short.

Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are great shoulder seasons with nice weather and fewer crowds. Hurricane season is from June to November, so check the forecasts if you are traveling during this time. Always pack sunscreen, as the Florida sun is strong. For the latest beach conditions, visit Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.

Best Time to Visit

April or October for the best weather and fewer crowds. There are Warm days, cool evenings, and lower hotel rates. If you like the party vibe, visit during spring break in March or April but book early as it gets busy.

Top 5 Hotels in Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach has many hotels, from luxury to budget-friendly. Here are five top picks, all within walking distance of the beach.

1. Sandpearl Resort

Sandpearl Resort is a beachfront gem with a zero-entry pool and a kids’ club called Camp Ridley. Rooms have private balconies with Gulf views, and the resort’s restaurant, Caretta on the Gulf, is a fine dining favorite. It is perfect for families or romantic getaways. Book early for the best rates.

2. Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa

The Hyatt Regency stands out with its pink exterior and spacious suites. Steps from Pier 60 and has a rooftop pool with views. Spa and on-site dining make it great for relaxation. Guests love the easy beach access and modern amenities.

3. Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

Located right on the beach, the Hilton is great for families. There are two pools, including an infinity pool, close to the Beach Walk. Rooms have beach or harbor views, and the resort hosts sunset celebrations. Short walk to restaurants and shops.

4. Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach

The Wyndham Grand has a prime location near Pier 60 and the entertainment scene. Oceanfront rooms, spa, and poolside bar are big pluses. Guests love the modern design and easy access to water sports. A stylish choice for a fun vacation.

5. Sheraton Sand Key Resort

Sheraton Sand Key has a private beach with no resort fees, which is rare. Large pool, tennis courts, and dining options like Rusty’s Bistro for fresh seafood. The resort is near Sand Key Park, which is perfect for nature lovers. For parking tips, see Long-Term Parking at Tampa Airport.

Top 5 Spas in Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is a relaxation haven with world-class spas offering massages and facials. Here are five top spas to unwind.

1. Spa at Sandpearl

The Spa at Sandpearl is a luxurious retreat with Gulf-inspired treatments. Try the signature massage or seaweed body wrap. The peaceful setting and staff make it a top choice for couples. Book a couples massage for a special treat.

2. Hibiscus Spa at Hilton Clearwater Beach

Hibiscus Spa offers beachside relaxation with ocean views. Their hot stone massages and facials are popular, and the spa’s cozy vibe is great for de-stressing. Packages include pool access for a full day of pampering.

3. Spa Oceanea at Wyndham Grand

Spa Oceanea combines modern techniques with a serene atmosphere. Its deep tissue massages and aromatherapy sessions are great for tired muscles, and the spa’s location near the beach adds to the calming experience.

4. Safety Harbor Resort & Spa

Twenty minutes from Clearwater Beach, the Safety Harbor Resort & Spa overlooks Tampa Bay. It’s known for its natural mineral springs and offers hydrotherapy, wraps, and scrubs. The waterfront tiki bar is a bonus after your treatment.

5. Spa at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach

This spa offers a range of treatments, from reflexology to body scrubs. The rooftop setting has Gulf views, making it a peaceful escape. Guests love the staff and vibe.

Top 5 Restaurants in Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach has a great food scene, from beach bars to fine dining. Here are five must-visit restaurants, with three keywords bolded for each.

1. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill

Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is a beachfront favorite for fresh seafood, a casual vibe, and sunset views. Try the grouper sandwich or she-crab soup. It’s perfect for a laid-back meal with live music. 7 Rockaway St.At Sandpearl Resort Caretta on the Gulf offers fine dining, ocean views, and Asian-inspired dishes. The sushi and seafood are top-notch and perfect for a special night out. 500 Mandalay Ave.

3. Columbia Restaurant

Just off the beach in Sand Key, Columbia Restaurant, 1241 Gulf Blvd, offers Spanish cuisine, 1905 salad, and waterfront dining. This historic spot has existed since 1905 and is great for families or date nights.

4. Sharky’s Beach Bar

Sharky’s Beach Bar is a new spot with cold drinks, beach views, and good burgers. It’s a great place to grab a beer after a day in the sun. 391 Mandalay Ave.

5. Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber

Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber is a classic for fine dining, steak dishes, and a cozy atmosphere. Their crab cakes and desserts are a hit. It’s perfect for a fancy meal near the beach at 447 Mandalay Ave. For more dining ideas, explore Restaurants on the Tampa Riverwalk.

What’s special about Clearwater Beach?

Powdery white sand, emerald waters, ranked #15 globally by Travel + Leisure 2025, vibrant Pier 60 sunset festivals with artisans, musicians, and family-friendly activities.
Source: Visit St. Petersburg-Clearwater

Why is Clearwater famous?

Top U.S. beach by Tripadvisor (2016, 2018, 2019), Clearwater Marine Aquarium with Winter the Dolphin, family-friendly vibe, and nightly Pier 60 sunset celebrations.
Source: Visit St. Petersburg-Clearwater

What state is Clearwater Beach in?

Clearwater Beach is in Florida, on the Gulf Coast, a barrier island west of downtown Clearwater, near Tampa.

What is Clearwater good for families?

Yes, it’s ideal for family fun, with calm waters, a Pier 60 playground, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, and resort kids’ clubs.

What is Clearwater Beach open at night?

Yes, accessible 24/7, with Pier 60 sunset festivals two hours before and after sunset, plus nearby restaurants and nightlife options.
Source: Visit St. Petersburg-Clearwater

What airport is for Clearwater Beach?

St. Pete-Clearwater International (PIE), 10 miles away, or Tampa International (TPA), 20 miles away, with more flight options.

What is Clearwater Beach private?

Mostly public with free access, though some resort areas like Sandpearl Resort have private sections for guests.

Final Thoughts

Clearwater Beach is often called a “pink sand” beach because of its soft, rosy sand. It’s a must-see in Tampa Bay. The sand is sugary, the water is warm, and endless activities exist. From dolphin cruises to sunset festivals, there’s something for everyone. The hotels and spas are luxurious, and the restaurants serve fresh food. Go in the spring or fall for the best weather, and don’t forget to catch a sunset at Pier 60. Clearwater Beach is a piece of heaven waiting for you.