Clearwater, Florida, is a sun-kissed coastal city famous for its white sand beaches, Gulf waters, and laid-back vibe. Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater combines natural beauty with culture, making it a great destination for families, solo travelers, and couples.
1. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Home to Winter the dolphin (who sadly passed away in 2021), Clearwater Marine Aquarium is more than a tourist attraction – it’s a marine life rescue and rehabilitation center. Get up close with rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and otters while learning about marine conservation. Fun for all ages.
2. Family-Friendly Options
Clearwater is a family vacation paradise. Kids love Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, the interactive exhibits at the aquarium, and mini-golf scattered throughout the city. The beach is calm for young swimmers, and local playgrounds and splash pads add even more fun.
3. Fun Events and Festivals
Clearwater has plenty of events throughout the year. The Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival combines seafood with soulful music, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival turns the beach into a gallery of sand sculptures. Street performers and local vendors add to the party.
4. Water Activities
Water is at the heart of Clearwater. Try jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, or simply swim in the Gulf waters. Fishing charters are popular too – from deep sea to family-friendly coastal trips.
5. Boat Tours
A boat tour is one of the best ways to see Clearwater. Choose from dolphin-watching, sunset sails, or even glass-bottom boat rides. Many tours depart from the Clearwater Marina and offer stunning views of the coast and wildlife.
6. Events of Pier 60
Pier 60 is Clearwater Beach’s social hub. Every evening, it comes alive with the Sunset Celebration, a free nightly festival featuring local artisans, live music, and street performers. During the day, it’s great for fishing or just taking in the ocean views.
7. Festivals and Parades
In addition to the Sugar Sand and Sea-Blues Festivals, Clearwater hosts Fourth of July fireworks, holiday boat parades, and outdoor concerts. Check the city’s event calendar to time your trip with seasonal events for an extra bonus.
8. Nature Reserves and Parks
Escape the beach crowds with a visit to Caladesi Island State Park or Moccasin Lake Nature Park. These spots offer hiking trails, bird-watching, and wildlife spotting. A peaceful retreat into Florida’s natural world.
9. Dining and Shopping
Clearwater has a lively food scene – from fresh Gulf seafood at beachfront grills to upscale dining. Don’t miss grouper sandwiches or Cuban-inspired dishes. For shopping, hit the local boutiques, surf shops, and souvenir stalls along Beach Walk and downtown.
Planning Your Trip
The best time to visit Clearwater is October to April, when the weather is warm but not hot. Clearwater is accessible by car or Tampa International Airport, 20 miles away. Renting a car is convenient, but local trolleys and shuttles make getting around easy.
Conservation Efforts
Clearwater is committed to protecting its coastal environment. Organizations like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium lead local conservation initiatives. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife, reduce plastic use, and support eco-friendly businesses during their stay.
Educational Programs
In addition to aquarium programs, local parks and marine centers offer educational experiences for kids and adults. From guided nature walks to hands-on science exhibits, Clearwater makes learning fun and accessible.
Travel Tips
- Book popular tours and accommodations in advance, especially during spring break.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
- Don’t forget flip-flops, water shoes, and reusable water bottles.* Follow posted signs for sea turtle nesting and protected areas.
- Get a beach trolley pass for easy transport between Clearwater Beach and other attractions.
Endnotes
Whether you’re chasing dolphins on a boat tour or catching a Gulf sunset at Pier 60, there’s no shortage of experiences. It is full of attractions for every interest. From world-famous aquariums to beachside piers, the city has it all.
