Clearwater Beach is one of Florida’s best vacation spots.
It has soft white sand, warm Gulf waters, and stunning sunsets.
Whether you love relaxing, adventure, or great food, this beach has it all.
Spend your day soaking up the sun or diving into thrilling water activities.
Explore nature, take a boat tour, or visit the famous Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
When the sun sets, enjoy live music, fresh seafood, and vibrant nightlife.
This guide covers the best things to do, from beach fun to top attractions.
No matter your travel style, you’ll find something unforgettable in Clearwater Beach!
1. Relax on Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is a top-rated destination, known for its sugar-white sand and crystal-clear waters.
The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.
Visitors can rent umbrellas and beach tents for shade, making long beach days more comfortable.
The water here is shallow and calm, perfect for wading, swimming, or simply cooling off.
Nearby bars and ice cream parlors provide easy access to refreshments, so you don’t have to go far to grab a cold drink or snack.
Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends, as the beach gets crowded.
If you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere, head toward Pier 60, where a lively community vibe brings the beach to life.
2. Explore Clearwater Beach by Bike
Biking is one of the best ways to explore Clearwater Beach and beyond.
The city’s flat terrain makes it an easy and enjoyable ride for all ages.
Rent a bicycle and cruise along the Beach Walk promenade, take in the ocean views, and stop at local shops or restaurants along the way.
For a longer ride, cycle toward downtown Clearwater or even make a trip to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
There are plenty of great photo opportunities along the way, with scenic coastal views and colorful street art.
Bike rentals are widely available, and many shops allow online bookings for convenience.
3. Stroll Along Pier 60
Pier 60 is one of Clearwater Beach’s most iconic spots.
This 1,080-foot fishing pier is a prime place to take in the best views of the beach and the Gulf of Mexico.
Dolphins are often spotted swimming nearby, and artful dolphin statues add a unique touch to the walkway.
In the evening, Pier 60 transforms into a hub of activity with its famous Sunset Celebration.
Street performers, crafters, and live musicians create a lively atmosphere as visitors gather to watch the sun sink below the horizon.
The pier is also popular for fishing, with rental gear available for those who want to cast a line and try their luck at catching seasonal fish.
4. Check Out Sand Key Park
For a quieter alternative to Clearwater Beach, Sand Key Park offers a relaxing escape.
This 95-acre island is perfect for those looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying a beautiful beach.
The park features soft sand, picnic areas, and nature trails, making it a great spot for a laid-back day outdoors.
Unlike the busier main beach, Sand Key provides a more peaceful setting with fewer tourists.
Visitors can rent cabanas, use bathhouses, and take advantage of beach wheelchairs for accessibility.
A dog park is also available for those traveling with pets.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, rentals for kayaks and bikes are available, adding more ways to explore the area.
Parking is easy, with plenty of spaces available, making it a convenient option for a hassle-free beach day.
Wildlife lovers will also appreciate the chance to spot turtles and herons, which are often seen in the park’s natural areas.
5. Soak Up the Views from Sand Key Bridge
One of Clearwater Beach’s hidden gems is the stunning view from Sand Key Bridge.
While the bridge itself is a simple concrete structure, the scenery from the walking path is breathtaking.
Walking along the bridge offers panoramic views of Clearwater Beach, Sand Key Park, and the shimmering Gulf waters.
On one side, you’ll see the city skyline and crystal-clear waters swirling with sand.
On the other, you’ll take in the peaceful coastline of Sand Key and the vast stretch of beach leading to St. Petersburg.
For the best experience, walk both sides of the bridge to take in the different perspectives.
While traffic noise can be a downside, the view more than makes up for it.
Few visitors take advantage of this scenic walk, making it one of the most underrated spots in the area.
6. Walk the Trails at Moccasin Lake Nature Park
Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a peaceful retreat from the busy beach scene.
Spanning 40 acres, this hidden gem offers miles of walking trails that wind through a beautiful hardwood hammock.
Towering oak trees provide shade along the paths, making it a comfortable spot for a nature walk.
The park’s main attraction is its scenic 5-acre lake, where visitors can enjoy birdwatching and spot local wildlife.
The most popular trail is short but offers plenty of opportunities to see native birds and other animals.
The paths are well-marked, so there’s no need to worry about getting lost.
For those interested in learning more about the local environment, the nature center provides educational exhibits on Florida’s wildlife and ecosystems.
Families and nature lovers will also enjoy the butterfly garden, which is home to species like monarchs, zebra longwings, and giant swallowtails.
7. Go Parasailing
Parasailing is an unforgettable way to take in Clearwater Beach from above.
Floating hundreds of feet in the air, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Gulf’s crystal-clear waters, white sandy shores, and even the occasional dolphin swimming below.
Two popular providers, BouYah Watersports and Chute ‘Em Up Parasail, offer parasailing experiences near Pier 60.
The experience typically costs around $80-85 per person, but you can often find discounts in local hotel coupon books.
8. Rent a Paddleboard or Kayak
For a slower-paced adventure, rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the calm waters of Clearwater Beach.
Divine Sunshine Kayak and Paddle offers guided eco-tours and sunset excursions, transporting you to scenic launch spots.
If you prefer to go at your own pace, they also provide rental deliveries straight to your location.
Makin’ Waves, located behind Shephard’s, rents paddleboards and kayaks for one to three hours, giving you the freedom to explore the Gulf.
For a more secluded experience, Paddle Out Adventures takes guests by pontoon boat to hidden paddling spots.
If you’re new to the sport, Clearwater Paddle Board & Rental Company provides beginner-friendly options, including short instructional sessions before you hit the water.
Paddleboarding is accessible to all skill levels, making it a fun and relaxing way to explore.
9. Kayak Through Mangrove Forests in Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi Island State Park is one of Clearwater’s hidden gems, only accessible by boat.
This untouched barrier island offers a quieter beach experience, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
One of the best ways to explore Caladesi Island is by kayak.
Paddle through mangrove forests, winding along peaceful trails where you might spot turtles, ospreys, herons, and even eagles.
The island features a 3-mile loop trail through salt marshes and mangroves, leading straight to the beach.
Despite its secluded feel, Caladesi Island has amenities, including restrooms, picnic pavilions, shower stations, and a small restaurant.
For those interested in fishing, the waters around the Honeymoon Island Causeway, just 15 minutes from Caladesi, are great for catching redfish, tarpon, grouper, snook, and more.
10. Go Scuba Diving
Clearwater Beach is a fantastic place for both beginner and experienced scuba divers.
If you’ve never tried scuba before, introductory dive courses provide everything you need to experience the underwater world for the first time.
A qualified instructor will guide you through the basics before taking you into the water.
For certified divers, 2 Shea Charters is a top-rated company offering scuba diving excursions to offshore dive sites.
They also run combined scuba diving and fishing trips for those looking to explore both activities in one day.
Most dive shops are located near the beach, so it’s easy to stop in, ask questions, and find the perfect trip for your skill level.
11. Take a Motorbike Tour of Clearwater Bay
A motorbike tour is an exciting way to explore Clearwater Bay without the hassle of navigating on your own.
This guided experience takes you through some of the most scenic areas, giving you a fresh perspective on the city’s coastline.
Your driver will pick you up from your hotel or Pier 60 and take you on a customized ride along the bay.
To make the trip even more unique, you get to choose the soundtrack for your journey.
Whether it’s classic rock, upbeat pop, or something more laid-back, the music adds to the adventure.
Unlike traditional tours, this one combines sightseeing with a bit of thrill.
The wind in your face, the open road, and the stunning water views make for a truly memorable experience.
12. Go on a Segway Tour of Clearwater Beach
For a fun and effortless way to explore Clearwater Beach, a Segway tour is a great choice.
It’s easy to learn, beginner-friendly, and allows you to cover more ground than walking.
This 8-mile guided tour takes you across some of Clearwater’s best sights.
You’ll roll along the Causeway Bridge, take in the historic charm of Old Clearwater, and make your way to the lively Pier 60 area.
The route is filled with scenic spots, from waterfront views to city landmarks.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you don’t have to worry about getting lost.
Instead, you can focus on enjoying the ride and soaking in the surroundings.
13. Hire a Fishing Charter in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater is more than just a pastime—it’s a classic Florida experience.
A fishing charter is the perfect way to get out on the water and try your luck at reeling in local catches.
These guided trips take you through the Gulf of Mexico and even past Caladesi Island, offering prime fishing spots along the way.
The boats come with experienced guides who know the waters well, helping you find the best locations and techniques to catch fish.
14. Go on a Dolphin-Watching Cruise
Clearwater Beach is one of the best places in the U.S. to see dolphins in the wild.
The Gulf of Mexico is full of them, and a dolphin-watching cruise offers the perfect way to get an up-close view.
One of the most popular options is the Little Toot Tugboat Dolphin Cruise.
This boat creates big wakes that dolphins love to jump and play in, making it one of the best ways to see these incredible animals in action.
The 1-hour and 15-minute tour departs from Clearwater Marina and takes you to prime dolphin-spotting locations.
Throughout the cruise, the captain shares interesting stories about the dolphins and Clearwater Beach.
You’ll also spot other marine life, such as pelicans, egrets, and ospreys.
The boat features open netting to maximize your view, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.
Soft drinks, water, beer, and wine are available for purchase (cash only).
Best of all, this is an affordable and family-friendly activity, making it a great choice for visitors of all ages.
15. Take a Sunset Cruise Celebration
A sunset cruise is one of the best ways to experience Clearwater Beach’s famous golden-hour views.
Instead of watching from Pier 60, you can take in the breathtaking colors of the Gulf of Mexico from the water.
This 1-hour and 45-minute sunset cruise departs at 5 PM, offering a relaxing ride as the sun dips below the horizon.
You’ll sail along Clearwater’s coast on a comfortable double-decker catamaran, enjoying panoramic views of the sky and sea.
During the cruise, the captain shares interesting facts about the Gulf and its wildlife.
Champagne is included, and additional alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on board.
The cruise is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, making it a great option for everyone.
16. Enjoy a Tropical-Themed Calypso Queen Cruise
For a livelier on-the-water experience, hop aboard the Calypso Queen, a tropical-themed party cruise that sails through Clearwater’s waters.
This 2-hour cruise is all about fun, with DJ music, dancing, and unlimited drinks to keep the energy high.
Departing from Clearwater Marina, the cruise instantly immerses you in a Caribbean-style atmosphere.
You’ll be greeted with island beats, bright decor, and stunning water views.
The all-inclusive ticket includes unlimited rum punch, wine, and beer, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind.
A buffet-style lunch or dinner is also available, with options to satisfy a variety of tastes.
The Calypso Queen Cruise is suitable for all ages and is fully wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
17. Go on a Tiki Boat Cruise
For a one-of-a-kind experience, the Tiki Boat Cruise combines Clearwater Beach’s stunning views with a floating bar atmosphere.
These thatched-roof tiki boats provide a laid-back way to cruise the Gulf while making your own cocktails on board.
The tour departs from 25 Causeway Boulevard, taking you on a relaxing ride around Clearwater Beach and the Gulf of Mexico.
While the tiki bar doesn’t serve drinks, it provides coolers, ice, and a blender, allowing you to bring your own ingredients and mix up custom cocktails.
The trip isn’t just about the drinks.
Your captain will guide the boat to areas where you can spot dolphins and even manatees, adding an exciting wildlife element to the experience.
18. Go Jet Skiing
For those looking for an adrenaline rush, BouYah Watersports offers high-speed jet ski rentals that let you explore Clearwater Beach from a whole new perspective.
These top-of-the-line jet skis allow you to cruise along the coastline, feeling the thrill of the waves beneath you.
Before heading out, the staff provides all the necessary safety gear and a quick tutorial on operating the jet ski.
If jet skiing feels too intense, BouYah Watersports also offers kayak rentals, paddleboarding, banana boat rides, and parasailing.
19. Take a Clear Kayak Tour of Clearwater Beach
For a unique paddling experience, book a clear kayak tour and see Tampa Bay’s marine life from a whole new angle.
Unlike traditional kayaks, these transparent kayaks allow you to look straight down into the water, offering an up-close view of the fish and other sea creatures swimming below.
Guided tours take you to prime wildlife-spotting locations, where you can observe the vibrant ecosystem beneath the surface.
The calm waters of Clearwater Beach make this an enjoyable and family-friendly experience.
20. Go on a Sailing Cruise
For a more relaxing way to enjoy the Gulf, a sailing cruise is a perfect choice.
These two-hour excursions depart from Clearwater Marina, offering a peaceful way to explore the coastline.
During the trip, you’ll sail past Sand Key Park, admire the untouched beauty of Caladesi Island, and take in the stunning views of the open water.
The experience is both scenic and refreshing, making it an excellent way to unwind.
The captain is known for being friendly and knowledgeable, adding interesting insights to the journey.
21. Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium (Meet Winter the Dolphin)
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a must-visit for marine lovers and fans of the Dolphin Tale movie.
This unique aquarium focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured marine animals, making it more of a conservation center than a traditional aquarium.
One of its most famous residents was Winter the dolphin, known for her prosthetic tail and inspiring story.
Although Winter has since passed, her legacy lives on, and visitors can still meet Hope, another star from Dolphin Tale. The aquarium also houses sea turtles, otters, and stingrays.
Interactive experiences make the visit even more engaging.
Scuba divers inside the tanks answer visitor questions using underwater writing boards, and guests can also touch stingrays during special presentations.
On clear days, the Sea Life Safari Boat Tour offers a 90-minute excursion, allowing visitors to see local marine life up close.
Admission is $29.95, with an additional $10 parking fee.
To save money, consider the Tampa Bay City Pass, which includes several other major attractions in the area.
22. Do a Pirate Escape Room
For a fun and immersive challenge, try the Pirate Ship Escape Room near Pier 60.
This interactive game lets you step into a pirate-themed adventure, inspired by Clearwater and Tampa Bay’s real pirate history.
The objective? Work as a team to solve clues and escape within one hour.
The game is set inside a realistic pirate shipwreck, making it feel like a true swashbuckling experience.
Whether you’re new to escape rooms or a seasoned pro, this game offers a unique and entertaining way to test your problem-solving skills.
The escape room can accommodate up to 8 people, making it great for families, friends, or even a fun date night.
It’s also an ideal indoor activity for escaping the Florida heat or filling an evening before heading out for drinks.
23. Watch a Minor League Baseball Game or Spring Training at BayCare Ballpark
Baseball fans will love catching a game at BayCare Ballpark, home to the Clearwater Threshers, the minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies.
This stadium also hosts the Phillies’ spring training games, giving fans a chance to see major league players up close before the regular season begins.
With 8,000 seats, the stadium offers an intimate viewing experience, where every seat provides a great view of the field.
A standout feature is Frenchy’s Tiki Pavilion, an open-air bar with panoramic stadium views.
It’s a great spot to enjoy a drink while watching the game.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly night out, Wednesday games are the best time to visit.
The stadium offers happy hour specials, including free drinks for ladies, $1 beers, and $3 cocktails before the game starts.
24. Explore The Collection on Palmetto’s Museum of Antique Automobiles
For car enthusiasts, The Collection on Palmetto is a hidden gem.
This museum houses nearly 100 antique and classic cars, ranging from the early 1900s to modern-day supercars.
Walking through the exhibits feels like traveling through time, showcasing the evolution of automotive design and engineering.
Some of the standout vehicles on display include a 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, and a 2017 Ford GT.
Each car is beautifully maintained and displayed, making it an incredible experience for anyone who appreciates automotive history.
What makes this museum even more special? Visitors can drive select vintage and modern cars, offering a hands-on way to connect with these historic vehicles.
The venue is also popular for wedding photoshoots and events, adding to its charm.
25. Spend the Day on Roller Coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
If you’re craving adrenaline, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay delivers.
This massive theme park combines thrilling roller coasters, animal encounters, and live entertainment, making it an action-packed day trip from Clearwater Beach.
The park boasts 10 extreme roller coasters, catering to different thrill levels.
If you’re looking for maximum excitement, try Iron Gwazi, featuring a 200-foot drop at a 90-degree angle, or Cheetah Hunt, North America’s tallest triple-launch coaster.
For those who prefer a more balanced ride, Montu offers a mix of loops and twists with seven inversions.
If you’re new to roller coasters, Level 1 rides provide a smoother, beginner-friendly experience.
Beyond the coasters, Busch Gardens is also home to over 200 animal species, including tigers, cheetahs, and elephants. A walk-through aviary lets visitors get up close with exotic birds.
When it’s time to refuel, the park offers 11 different cafes and restaurants, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
26. Do a Scavenger Hunt in Clearwater
A scavenger hunt is a fun and interactive way to explore Clearwater Beach.
It’s perfect for both families and groups of friends who enjoy a little competition.
To start, you’ll need to book the hunt and download an app that provides a list of objects to find around the area.
Each item is worth a certain number of points, and as you check them off, your score updates in real time.
If you get stuck, the host can provide hints to keep the game moving.
This self-guided activity is an affordable and flexible way to discover Clearwater Beach’s hidden gems.
You can play at your own pace, making it ideal for those who want to mix fun with sightseeing.
27. Go Mini-Golfing at Captain Bligh’s Landing
For a family-friendly activity, Captain Bligh’s Landing Mini-Golf is a great choice.
This 18-hole course is filled with exciting features, including caves, waterfalls, and a giant pirate ship.
The pirate theme adds an extra layer of adventure, making it fun for both kids and adults.
After finishing your game, you can head inside to enjoy the arcade and game room for more entertainment.
Open seven days a week, this spot is a fun break from the beach while still keeping the relaxed Clearwater vibe.
28. Take a Helicopter Tour of Clearwater Beaches and Sand Key Park
If you want to see Clearwater Beach from a completely different perspective, a helicopter tour is the way to go.
The breathtaking aerial views make this an unforgettable experience.
From above, you’ll see why Clearwater Beach is ranked among the top beaches in the U.S. The white sands, turquoise waters, and surrounding islands look even more stunning from the sky.
The tour also takes you over Sand Key Park, the Gulf of Mexico, and parts of Tampa Bay, offering a panoramic view of Florida’s coastline.
Besides the incredible scenery, simply being in a helicopter is a thrill in itself.
29. Eat at Frenchy’s Restaurant
A trip to Clearwater Beach wouldn’t be complete without a meal at Frenchy’s Restaurant.
This iconic seafood spot, open since 1981, is known for serving some of the freshest seafood in town.
It’s casual, laid-back, and just steps from the ocean, making it a great place to relax after a day at the beach.
The must-try dish? Frenchy’s famous grouper sandwich.
This local favorite features a generous portion of freshly grilled grouper, served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and their special house sauce.
Other seafood highlights include buffalo shrimp, oysters, and grilled octopus dishes.
Frenchy’s Saltwater Café offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with an open-air design that keeps the beachy vibe alive.
The bright, colorful exterior is easy to spot, and the smell of fresh seafood on the grill will draw you in.
30. Have Breakfast at Salty Crab Bar & Grill
Start your day with a waterfront breakfast at Salty Crab Bar & Grill.
Located right on Clearwater Beach, this relaxed restaurant offers outdoor patio seating with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back morning meal.
The breakfast menu has plenty of delicious options, from classic pancakes and Belgian waffles to breakfast tacos and burritos.
One of the most popular dishes is the Crabby Benedict, which features two poached eggs and a crab cake on an English muffin, topped with hollandaise sauce.
If you like a morning cocktail, Salty Crab has you covered.
Their Ultimate Bloody Mary and Electric Mimosa are great choices to kickstart your day in paradise.
31. Enjoy a Smoothie Bowl at Kaia Bowls
For a healthy and refreshing breakfast or snack, head to Kaia Bowls in downtown Clearwater.
This trendy café serves nutrient-packed smoothie bowls made with fresh fruits, superfoods, and wholesome ingredients.
Kaia Bowls specializes in Acai Bowls, blending frozen acai berries with granola, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, Nutella, coconut flakes, almonds, peanut butter, and more.
If acai isn’t your thing, you can try a pitaya (dragon fruit) bowl, green bowl, oatmeal bowl, or chia bowl.
The café’s bright and cheerful atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a quick bite before hitting the beach.
32. Eat at Columbia Restaurant on Sand Key
For an elevated dining experience with a waterfront view, Columbia Restaurant on Sand Key is the perfect choice.
This historic restaurant has been serving authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine since 1905, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating, with a beautiful patio overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
Inside, the warm and elegant atmosphere captures the essence of Spanish culture.
Keep in mind that there is a dress code for indoor dining, while the outdoor deck offers a more relaxed vibe.
The menu is filled with century-old recipes and traditional Spanish dishes.
Signature options include Paella a la Valenciana, a rich Spanish rice dish loaded with seafood and chicken, and Roast Pork a la Cubana, a slow-roasted Cuban classic.
To complement the meal, the restaurant offers an impressive selection of Spanish wines.
33. Enjoy a Craft Beer at Big Storm Brewing
Beer lovers will enjoy a visit to Big Storm Brewing, an award-winning brewery known for its wide selection of craft beers.
The brewery has a cozy taproom, where guests can sample 20 craft beers on tap, all brewed on-site.
The beer lineup includes fan favorites like Wavemaker Amber Ale and Tropic Pressure Florida Ale, as well as seasonal and limited-edition brews.
If you’re looking for something a bit stronger, Big Storm Distillery also produces premium spirits, inspired by Florida’s laid-back lifestyle.
The taproom’s rustic, industrial décor creates a welcoming space to relax with a cold beer.
34. Have a Beachside Drink at Tate Island Grill
After a long day in the sun, nothing beats a refreshing drink by the beach.
Tate Island Grill, located at Sandpearl Resort, is the perfect spot to relax with oceanfront views and a laid-back atmosphere.
This beachside restaurant and bar sits just steps from the Gulf of Mexico, offering stunning scenery alongside its drink menu.
The food menu is just as impressive, featuring fresh seafood, burgers, and salads.
Jumbo shrimp, grouper tacos, and mahi-mahi tacos are local favorites.
35. Visit Jimmy’s on the Edge for a Rooftop Drink
For breathtaking views and craft cocktails, head to Jimmy’s on the Edge, located on the 10th floor of the Edge Hotel.
This rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and Clearwater Beach, making it one of the most scenic places for a drink in town.
The menu includes a mix of beer, wine, and signature cocktails, along with large seafood platters and buckets that are perfect for sharing.
If you’re looking for a fun and lively atmosphere, this is a great spot for a date night, celebration, or casual drinks with friends.
One of the highlights of Jimmy’s on the Edge is the Fire Bar, where every night at 9 p.m., guests can enjoy a free Fireball shot.
36. Dance at Shephard’s Beach Resort
If you’re looking for a place to drink, dance, and party, Shephard’s Beach Resort is the ultimate nightlife spot in Clearwater Beach.
This beachfront venue features a large outdoor terrace, a private beach, and a lively bar scene.
During the day, it’s a great place to enjoy drinks and food by the water, but at night, it transforms into one of Clearwater’s top party destinations.
Shephard’s is known for hosting world-famous DJs, including Robin Schulz and Paul Oakenfold.
Music plays throughout the day, and by the evening, the headlining act takes over to close the night in style.
For the best experience, arrive before sunset, grab a cocktail, and enjoy the view before the party begins.
