- Clearwater's Climate
- A Tour of Clearwater Beach
- Top Attractions in Clearwater Beach
- Water Activities in Clearwater Beach
- The Unmissable Experience: Frenchy's Clearwater
- Restaurants in Clearwater
- Places to Stay: Clearwater Beach, Florida Hotels
- Costs and Budgeting for Your Clearwater Beach Visit
- Planning Your Itinerary: Things to Do in Clearwater Beach, Florida
- Where is Clearwater Beach, Florida?
- Getting to Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, Florida: Sun, Sea, and So Much More
Clearwater Beach is an award-winning paradise with immense white sands and a warm atmosphere. Thanks to Wyndham Grand’s live webcam, you wake up to the soothing sound of the waves and become part of this tranquil world. Seaside entertainment and shimmering waters combine to create unforgettable moments.
When planning your next vacation, Clearwater Beach is the perfect choice with luxury hotels and resorts for every taste and budget. What’s more, with parking lots close to the beach, you can start relaxing in comfort.
Clearwater’s Climate
If you’re thinking of traveling to Clearwater Beach, you’ll want to pack your flip-flops and sunscreen. Like most of Florida, it has a subtropical climate, meaning it’s sunny and warm almost all year round.
During the colder months of the year (December-February) the average temperature is around 60°F (about 15°C), while in the warmer months (June-August) it rises to around 90°F (about 32°C). But even the cold months are milder than in many places.
Florida’s title as the ‘Sunshine State’ is not for nothing, with an average of 361 days of sunshine a year. During the summer months you may see brief afternoon thunderstorms, but they usually pass quickly.
A Tour of Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, with its clear waters and fine white sand, has won awards such as ‘America’s Best Beach’. When you step onto the beach, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of nature. Nearby luxury resorts such as Wyndham Grand, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Sandpearl Resort on the shore offer ideal accommodations for those who want to stay close to this clean beach.
Clearwater’s public beach is one of the best places to enjoy the Florida sun. The beach stretches almost three miles along the Gulf of Mexico, with plenty of room to spread out your umbrella and lay out your towel. If you’re looking for a more private experience, consider staying at the Marriott Suites on Sand Key or Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites, which offer private beaches and luxury amenities.
Along the Beach Walk, you can stroll along the meandering palm tree-lined coastal walkway or visit Pier 60, which offers spectacular views, especially at sunset. In addition to the pier, a daily sunset festival features street artists, artisans and craft vendors. Palm Pavilion Inn and Shephard’s Beach Resort offer easy access to these attractions, making your stay even more enjoyable. Clearwater Beach’s waters are generally calm, making it ideal for swimming.
Top Attractions in Clearwater Beach
If you’re in Clearwater Beach, there are plenty of places to have fun after soaking up the sun. Your first stop should be Pier 60. This is a great place not only for fishing but also for fun activities. You can watch street performers, musicians and see the handicrafts of local artisans at the Pier 60 Festival held every day. On top of that, the breathtaking sunset over the Gulf is amazing to watch from here.
Next, head to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, especially if you’re traveling with kids. This is a rescue center that houses sea creatures such as dolphins, sea turtles and sea otters. You might even get the chance to meet Winter, the star of the movie ‘Dolphin Tale’!
Only accessible by ferry, Caladesi Island State Park offers unspoiled beaches, hiking trails and plenty of bird-watching opportunities. It’s the perfect place for a stroll in a natural environment. And don’t miss the Clearwater Beach Marina, a bustling area with boats, restaurants and shops. You can organize sailing trips, pirate ship adventures or fishing trips.
Water Activities in Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is a paradise for water sports lovers. If you want to take a dip in the sea, here are some activities you can try:
- Parasailing is very popular. You can soar high above the Gulf and take in the spectacular coastal scenery. Several companies offer this exciting experience.
- If you want to come face to face with the local marine life, go snorkeling or scuba diving. The warm, clear waters of the bay are teeming with a variety of fish and corals.
- Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun way to explore the calm waters of Clearwater Beach. It’s also good exercise!
- If you want to enjoy the waves, try jet-skiing or wave-running. Many rental shops along the beach can help you.
- If you are looking for a quieter adventure, consider kayaking or canoeing around Caladesi Island or the Intracoastal Waterway.
- For an unforgettable evening, organize a dinner cruise or join Captain Memo’s pirate ship, enjoying the luxury of the yacht while enjoying beach fun and views of the shimmering waters.
- And don’t forget the fishing, Clearwater is known for its excellent deep sea fishing. Rent a boat and spend the day trying to catch a big one!
The Unmissable Experience: Frenchy’s Clearwater
If you’re in Clearwater, there’s a name you see on every corner: Frenchy’s. Opened in 1981, Frenchy’s has four different locations, each with its own unique atmosphere. Frenchy’s has great seafood, but their real claim to fame is the Original Grouper Sandwich.
Made with fresh, local grouper fish, this sandwich will leave you with a taste of Clearwater. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is especially popular with visitors for its tropical vibe and seaside location. With live music, a cozy atmosphere and unparalleled sunset views, it combines great food and beach fun.
Restaurants in Clearwater
The food scene in Clearwater is as vibrant as its beaches. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a meat lover or a vegetarian foodie, Clearwater has a restaurant to satisfy you. You can stop by Salt Cracker Fish Camp for sea delicacies. This cozy South American-inspired place offers an impressive raw bar.
Another option is Island Way Grill for Asian-inspired seafood. Caretta on the Gulf at Sand Pearl Resort is Clearwater’s only AAA Four Diamond restaurant. Here you can dine with seasonal menus and stunning views of the Gulf. For vegetarians and vegans, The Wildflower Cafe is known for its plant-based options and lovely atmosphere.
Places to Stay: Clearwater Beach, Florida Hotels
Clearwater Beach offers accommodation options for every budget and taste. As well as the luxurious Sand Pearl Resort, you have many options, such as the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach. This family-friendly resort combines luxury and comfort with well-appointed suites and hostel-style rooms. It also offers amenities such as poolside service to make your stay more enjoyable.
Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa is another popular choice. It boasts a beachfront location, two outdoor pools and a full-service spa. If you’re looking for a boutique hotel experience, Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel offers cozy rooms and a rooftop bar with impressive views of the Gulf and marina.
If you are looking for a budget option, Clearwater Beach Hotel offers simple accommodation a short walk from the beach. For those looking for the comforts of home, there are a variety of vacation rentals and apartments along Clearwater Beach. Wyndham Grand can also help guests find parking in the busy area.
Costs and Budgeting for Your Clearwater Beach Visit
It is important to plan expenses properly. It is important to remember that the overall costs may vary depending on the style of travel. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Accommodation can start at around $100 per night for a budget-friendly hotel or vacation rental and go up to several hundred dollars for a luxury resort. Food and drink costs can also vary widely, from affordable seafood delis to mid-range bistros and upscale restaurants with meals costing $50 or more per person.
Admission to places like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium or the cost of water activities can add up. You can expect to pay anywhere from $20 for a simple beach chair rental to more than $100 for activities like parasailing or deep-sea fishing.
Think about travel costs, too. If you’re driving, factor in gas and parking fees. If you’re flying into the area, think about airport transfers and possible car rental fees.
Planning Your Itinerary: Things to Do in Clearwater Beach, Florida
There is so much to see in Clearwater Beach and a well-planned itinerary can help you get the most out of your visit.
- Spend the first day enjoying the white sands: Swim, sunbathe, play beach volleyball or just relax and watch the world go by. Finish the day at the sunset festival at Pier 60. See the beauty of Clearwater Beach and discover for yourself why it is so famous.
- On day two, visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in the morning, followed by a dolphin-watching tour in the afternoon.
- Day three can be all about the water. Try parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding or jet-skiing. For a quieter day, take a ferry to Caladesi Island State Park to hike and birdwatch. Discover the area’s diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
In the evenings, Clearwater Beach has plenty to offer: Dine at one of the great hotels, listen to live music or stroll along the beautiful Beach Walk, steps from the Gulf.
Where is Clearwater Beach, Florida?
Clearwater Beach is a sun-filled destination on the Pinellas Peninsula, separating Tampa Bay from the Gulf of Mexico. It is located in Pinellas County, Florida. As part of the Tampa Bay area, it is a popular vacation spot for both locals and tourists from around the world.
If you are planning your trip, Clearwater Beach is located about 22 miles west of Tampa, Florida’s third largest city. For Florida’s leisure enthusiasts coming from Miami, a trip to Clearwater Beach will take about 280 miles northwestward, crossing the island.
Getting to Clearwater Beach
Getting to Clearwater Beach may be easier than you think, with several convenient options to suit travel preferences.
By Road:
- From Tampa or St. Petersburg: A scenic drive of about 25 miles, taking about 40-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
- From Orlando: A 107-mile adventure via I-4 W and I-275 S. This road connects to FL-60 W towards Clearwater Beach. A journey that takes about 2 hours.
- From Kissimmee: Similarly, it will be about a 2-hour drive. Head south on N John Young Pkwy, exit to FL-417 Toll N and follow I-4 W towards Tampa. There, follow I-275 S and FL-60 W to reach Clearwater Beach.
By Air:
- St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE): Located just 13 miles southeast of Clearwater Beach, PIE serves many of Allegiant Air’s intra-American routes.
- Tampa International Airport (TPA): For those who want more airline options, TPA is located 21 miles east of Clearwater Beach and is home to many major airlines.
If you’re wondering “How far is Clearwater Beach from me?”, there’s an easy way to find out. Type “Clearwater Beach” into your preferred online map or GPS device and it will give you a distance and estimated travel time based on your current location.