Clearwater Beach
1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater Beach, Orlando, FL, 33767
With expansive white-sand beaches and warm, turquoise waters, Florida's Clearwater Beach, a waterfront community on the Gulf of Mexico, is an ideal launching pad for kayaking, parasailing, boating, and biking. It's known as being more low-key than its southern neighbor, the bustling St. Pete Beach, and many consider Clearwater Beach to be among the best beaches in the United States.
The basics
There's an activity for every age and interest at Clearwater Beach, from relaxing on the sand with beach chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas to jet-skiing, speedboating, and fishing. Families with kids enjoy the gentle surf, prime for swimming and water sports. Visitors often steal away from nearby theme parks to spend time on the water, sometimes on day trips from Orlando and St. Petersburg.
Things to know before you go
At 3 miles long, Clearwater Beach is easy to navigate by car, bike, or foot.
Mandalay Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach, is a mile-long stretch of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
To get an overview of the area, jump on the Jolley Trolley (fees apply), which travels around Clearwater Beach and up to Sand Key Park.
Be sure to bring sun-protection gear and beachwear. Restroom and shower facilities are offered at most area beaches.
Beach wheelchairs are available at the Main Beach Lifeguard Station, south of Pier 60.
How to get there
Clearwater Beach is about 22 miles north of St. Pete Beach and 2 miles west of downtown Clearwater. The road south is South Gulfview Boulevard, and north is Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach's main drag. The nearest airports are in Tampa, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, and St. Petersburg-Clearwater, 12 miles (19 kilometers) away. The beach is about a 2-hour drive from Orlando.
When to get there
Clearwater Beach is warm year-round, with peak temperatures from April to October. Summer temperatures often hit upwards of 90°F (32°C), when the humid, subtropical region often also sees short thunderstorms. The mild winters attract the largest crowds.
More than just a beach
Visitors can do more than just lounge by the famously clear water. Plan ahead and book a Clearwater Beach tour, from deep-sea fishing to dolphin-watching, or check out the Sea Screamer, a speedboat that zooms along the coast. Don't miss the 1,080-foot (329-meter) Pier 60, with its bait shop, playground, and evening sunset festival, or beautiful Sand Key Park, which sees smaller crowds.
What is the best month to go to Clearwater Beach?
Clearwater Beach is warm year-round, with peak temperatures from April to October. The mild winters attract large crowds, while June, July, and August draw families thanks to school vacations. If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists and score lower hotel rates, visit Clearwater Beach in September, October, or November before the December holidays hit.
How do you spend a day in Clearwater Beach?
Head to the beach early to snag a good spot; you do not need Clearwater Beach tickets to access the waterfront. In addition to sunbathing, you can participate in activities including jet skiing, parasailing, dolphin sightseeing, and more. Plus, shopping and dining options can be found along nearby Mandalay Avenue. Then, catch the sunset and spend the evening at Pier 60, with nightly celebrations featuring artisans, crafters, and street performers.
What type of tours can you do to Clearwater Beach?
Day trips from Orlando to Clearwater Beach are a popular option. They often include additional Clearwater Bay activities such as deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, bottlenose dolphin watching, sunset cruises, or an excursion to the aquarium. Tours sometimes also include a lunch voucher for a full-day experience. You can even hop aboard a replica pirate ship and sail around the Gulf of Mexico.
What are the best tours to do in Clearwater Beach with kids?
Known as a family-friendly vacation destination, Clearwater Beach boasts many things to do for family fun. At Pier 60, you’ll find street performers, musicians, artisans, a large playground, and free movies in the park. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to see rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and Winter, the dolphin from the Dolphin Tale movie. Or hike along the trails in Moccasin Lake Nature Park.
Where can I park to go to Clearwater Beach?
There are public and private parking garages and lots along Mandalay Avenue and on-street parking. Get there early to secure a spot. Most rates are $3 per hour, while on-street parking is $3.50 per hour with a 5-hour limit. During spring break, the city offers its Park & Ride program that allows visitors to park in a free designated lot and catch a trolley to the beach for free.
Is a trip to Clearwater Beach worth it?
Yes. Considered one of the best beach towns along the Gulf Coast, Clearwater Beach, Florida, boasts plenty of shops, dining options, and family-friendly activities. The powdery white sand and calm, shallow waters make it a popular vacation destination. Also, the beaches are known for being pristine and well-maintained.
Ways to explore
No matter your age or interest, there's an activity at Clearwater Beach for you, from relaxing on the sand with beach chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas to pursuing activities such as jet-skiing, speedboating, and fishing. Families with kids can make the most of the gentle surf, ideal for swimming and water sports.
You can steal away from nearby theme parks to spend time on the water here—try taking a day trip from Orlando or St. Petersburg. If you're looking to spend the evening in style, you can book a sunset cruise—or a lively party-boat experience.
Accessibility
Clearwater Beach provides beach wheelchairs and accessibility mats so visitors with mobility challenges can reach the shoreline.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Sunscreen, towel, bathing suit, food and drinks
What to wear
Wear light and breezy layers, and bring dry clothes to change into after your swim.
Not allowed
Pets, smoking, alcohol, surfing
Amenities
Playgrounds, volleyball nets, bathrooms, food concessions
Address
Clearwater Beach is located on a barrier island just off mainland Clearwater, on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Driving, including taking taxis and rideshare services, is the fastest way to get there, though some public transit options are available.
Driving
Take FL-60 W to Clearwater Beach from the mainland; it’s just a 3-mile (5-kilometer) drive. If you want to avoid parking, taxis and rideshare services are an option.
Public transportation
While slower than driving, some public transportation routes serve the beach, including the Suncoast Beach Trolley.
Best times to visit
Visit Clearwater Beach early in the day for cooler weather and fewer crowds, or time your visit for Florida's postcard-worthy sunset views.
Best days to visit
Weekends are likely to be especially busy at Clearwater Beach; aim for a weekday instead.
Best months to visit
Owing to increased chance of rain, summer is the low season—instead, aim for the winter or early spring for ideal conditions.
Special events
Held in the spring, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival features sand sculptors at work on Clearwater Beach.
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