Why Go to Clearwater Beach
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Clearwater Beach is one of Florida's favorite Gulf Coast escapes. It sits on a long, narrow barrier island within 25 miles of both Tampa and St. Petersburg, just a few minutes' drive from the mainland, yet it feels a world away from the city. The powdery white sand and calm, clear water regularly land it among the best beaches in the country.
Spend your days paddleboarding, jet skiing or parasailing, or simply relaxing on the sand. When you want a break from the beach, explore the area's theaters, parks, shops and casual waterfront restaurants. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, known for rescuing and caring for dolphins and sea turtles. Every evening, Pier 60 hosts a lively sunset celebration with street performers and artists. Baseball fans can catch the Philadelphia Phillies during spring training.
Clearwater Beach is an easy family vacation and pairs well with time in Tampa or Orlando. I'll find you the right beachfront resort or rental and plan your days in the sun.
BEST FOR
Beach lovers, families, couples and sunset seekers
BEST MONTHS
March to May and October to November
EXPLORE
Clearwater Beach is on a barrier island; Pier 60 anchors the central beach, while Sand Key offers a quieter coastal setting.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Clearwater Beach
North America › Southeast › USA › Florida
Sugar-white sand, calm Gulf water and a sunset celebration every single night.
Coastal & Harbor
Family
Swimming
Sunset
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Take the ferry from Honeymoon Island to Caladesi Island for a quieter, untouched beach day away from the crowds.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Arrive early in peak season to find parking and a good spot on the sand.
Clearwater Beach
A wide, powdery white-sand beach with calm, clear water, regularly ranked among the best in America.
Rent a rod at the bait house and try your luck at sunset.
Pier 60
Clearwater's iconic fishing pier partially reopened in September 2025 after hurricane repairs, from the bait house to the T at the end.
Watch a dolphin presentation and visit the sea turtle area.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
A working marine hospital that rescues and rehabilitates dolphins, sea turtles and other marine life.
Visit for sunset away from the crowds of Pier 60.
Sand Key Park
A beautiful park at the southern end of Clearwater Beach, with a quieter beach and nature trails.
Take the ferry from Honeymoon Island and plan for a full day.
Caladesi Island State Park
An undeveloped barrier island reached by ferry, often ranked among the best beaches in the U.S.
An upscale beachfront resort with a spa, pools and Gulf views.
Sandpearl Resort
Clearwater Beach
Beach · Family
A modern beachfront resort on South Clearwater Beach with stunning views.
Opal Sands Resort
South Clearwater Beach
Beach
A luxury resort with a spa and pools, across from the beach.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
Clearwater Beach
Beach · Family
A modern hotel next to Pier 60, steps from the beach and nightly festival.
Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach / Pier 60
Beach
A lively beachfront resort with pools, restaurants and nightlife.
Shephard’s Beach Resort
South Clearwater Beach
Beach · Value
A large beachfront resort near Pier 60, good for families.
Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Clearwater Beach
Beach · Family
A modern boutique hotel with a rooftop pool.
Edge Hotel Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach
Beach · Boutique
Bayfront suites near quiet Sand Key Beach.
Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key
Sand Key
Beach · Family
A marina hotel close to the beach and Pier 60.
Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel
Clearwater Beach
Beach
A good-value harbourside hotel near the beach.
Holiday Inn & Suites Clearwater Beach S-Harbourside
Clearwater Beach
Value · Family
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Clearwater Beach
High 77°F · Low 62°F · Rain 1.8 in
Mild weather and holiday events begin.
The best times to visit Clearwater Beach are March through May and October through November, when the weather is warm and pleasant. Summer is hot and humid with afternoon storms, and hurricane season runs June through November. Winter is mild and popular with snowbirds.
Best Times to Visit Clearwater Beach
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Clearwater's dining scene is all about fresh Gulf seafood and laid-back beachside spots.
- Seafood: Try a grouper sandwich, a Clearwater classic.
- Beach bars: Enjoy drinks with your toes in the sand at sunset.
- Must-try: Grouper sandwich, fresh shrimp, key lime pie and Greek food in Tarpon Springs.
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Walking & Biking
The beach area is very walkable, and the Pinellas Trail is great for biking.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares are widely available.
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Rental Cars
A car is helpful for exploring nearby beaches and towns, though parking at the beach can be limited.
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Clearwater Ferry
The Clearwater Ferry connects downtown Clearwater with the beach and offers dolphin-watching cruises.
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Jolley Trolley
The Jolley Trolley connects Clearwater Beach with downtown Clearwater and nearby beach towns.
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Flying In
St. Pete-Clearwater International (PIE) is about 20 minutes away, and Tampa International (TPA) is about 35 to 45 minutes away.
Most visitors fly into St. Pete-Clearwater or Tampa and drive or take a rideshare to the beach. Once you're here, the beach area is walkable, and the Jolley Trolley and Clearwater Ferry make it easy to get around without a car.
Getting Around Clearwater Beach
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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