Just 19 miles (30.5 kilometers) from Tampa International Airport, Clearwater Beach is a popular destination for those seeking sun, beautiful beaches and plenty of entertainment options for the whole family. The resort area is situated on a narrow barrier island that’s about 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) long, which makes it easy to navigate on foot or by bike.
Most activity centers on the white sand of Clearwater Beach. Enjoy sunbathing, stand-up paddleboarding and beach volleyball. Browse the nearby Beach Walk, a palm tree-lined promenade that winds along the beachfront and is home to many cafés and shops.
For a break from the sun, head to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Here, sea turtles, stingrays and sharks share the complex with Winter, the famous bottlenose dolphin with a prosthetic tail. Winter was the inspiration behind and star of the family film Dolphin Tale.
As the evening draws in, make your way back to Pier 60, where beach-goers flock once the sun goes down. Every night, there is entertainment and local artisans selling a variety of goods against a backdrop of music and street performers.
Catch a boat, or walk, from the north end of the island to quiet Caladesi Island. Caladesi is home to 3 miles (5 kilometers) of unspoiled Florida wilderness, with a white-sand beach and hiking trails. Kayakers can paddle through 3 miles (5 kilometers) of water that winds through mangroves.
Sand Key Park, located off the south end of Clearwater Beach, is home to another impeccable beach. Here, nature enthusiasts can catch a glimpse of some of the marine birds and animals that are native to Clearwater, including sea turtles, herons, roseate spoonbills and great horned owls. This public park is only open during the day.
Clearwater Beach
Where to stay in Clearwater Beach
Sand Key
While visiting Sand Key, you might make a stop by sights like Belleair Beach and Sand Key Park.
Island Estate
While there might not be top attractions in Island Estate, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Clearwater Beach and Clearwater Beach Municipal Marina.
Carlouel
While Carlouel might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Clearwater Beach and Sunsets at Pier 60.
Clearwater Point
Clearwater Point might not have many top sights, but Sand Key Park and Clearwater Beach Municipal Marina are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Diamond Isle
Diamond Isle might not have many top sights, but Clearwater Beach and Clearwater Beach Municipal Marina are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
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Popular places to visit
John's Pass Village & Boardwalk
When you visit John's Pass Village & Boardwalk, a popular shopping spot in Madeira Beach, you can browse for souvenirs. Stroll along the marina in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Tropicana Field
Catch an event at Tropicana Field during your trip to St. Petersburg. Attend a baseball game or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.
Fort De Soto Park
Admire the vestiges of the fortress, bring your kids to the pirate ship playground and relax on the beaches of this archipelago.
Sand Key Park
Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Sand Key Park, a lovely green space in Clearwater Beach. Stroll along the clear-water beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Salvador Dali Museum
Browse the surrealistic masterpieces of a world-famous Spanish painter in a remarkable building that perfectly suits the style of the art exhibits.
Vinoy Park
While area beaches are abundant, it’s convenient to have this lovely spot right in the city. Lounge under a palm tree and enjoy the frequent entertainment.
