Sun-kissed beaches, vibrant sunsets, and a treasure trove of activities – Clearwater, Florida, beckons travelers with its irresistible charm. Whether you seek an adrenaline rush, a tranquil escape, or a dive into fascinating history, this coastal city is a gem.
Indulge in the iconic Clearwater Beach, renowned for its soft sand, turquoise waters, and endless possibilities. Try parasailing for breathtaking aerial views, or connect with rescued dolphins at the aquarium.
Visit The Clearwater Marine Aquarium
One of the most popular Clearwater Florida attractions, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and more.
Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, galleries, and interactive displays showcasing marine life and conservation efforts. Highlights include Dolphin Terrace, Winter's Dolphin Tale Adventure, Touch Tanks, and rescue centers. You can even take a behind-the-scenes tour or watch a dolphin show.
Relax On Clearwater Beach
The crown jewel of Clearwater Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in Florida, is undoubtedly its namesake stretch, a 2.5-mile crescent of impossibly fine, sugar-white sand that feels like velvet underfoot.
The calm, clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico lap gently at the shore, inviting you to swim, splash, or simply wade in and soak up the warmth. Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids, reading a book under an umbrella, or chasing sandpipers along the water's edge, there are tons of things to do Clearwater Beach.
Take A Dolphin-watching Tour
There are many dolphin-watching tours available in Clearwater, and you're almost guaranteed to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. These tours typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours.
Several tour operators in Clearwater offer dolphin-watching excursions, ranging from large-group boat tours to smaller, more intimate experiences on smaller vessels or even kayaks. Some popular operators include Clearwater Beach Dolphin Tours, The Tropics Boat Tours, and Little Toot Dolphin Adventures.
Visit Pier 60
Stretching 1,080 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, Pier 60 is more than just a fishing pier; it's a vibrant hub of activity and a Clearwater Beach landmark. This iconic destination offers stunning panoramic views, a lively atmosphere, hotels, and a variety of fun stuff to do in Clearwater Florida for all ages.
Take a leisurely stroll along the pier, soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the coastline and the vibrant energy of the beach. Kids will love exploring Pier 60 Park, featuring a large playground, picnic areas, and plenty of space to run around.
Go Stargazing On The Beach
With clear skies and no light pollution, Clearwater Beach is a great place in Florida to go stargazing. You can even see the Milky Way galaxy on a clear night.
Pier 60 is an ideal spot for stargazing when it has minimal light pollution, Look out for constellations and shooting stars. Pack essentials such as a blanket or beach chair for comfort, insect repellent, snacks, water, and a red flashlight to preserve night vision.
Visit The Sponge Docks
The Sponge Docks are a historic area of Clearwater that's home to working sponge boats and shops. It is a popular tourist destination, offering a unique blend of Greek heritage, a working waterfront, and delightful shops and restaurants.
Savor delicious gyros, souvlaki, and other traditional dishes at waterfront restaurants overlooking the working sponge boats. Many restaurants offer live Greek music, creating a festive atmosphere.
Take A Day Trip To Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Start your adventure by exploring the thrilling rides and attractions that Busch Gardens is famous for. Be sure to experience roller coasters like SheiKra, Montu, and Cheetah Hunt for adrenaline-pumping excitement.
Take a break from the thrills to explore the park's animal exhibits and encounters. Don't miss attractions like Serengeti Safari, where you can embark on a guided tour to see giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife up close. Also, Enjoy some of Busch Gardens' world-class shows and entertainment offerings.
Visit The Sunsets At Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival
The Sunsets at Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival is not just your typical beach festival; it's a celebration of artistry, imagination, and of course, the world-famous sugar-soft sand of Clearwater Beach.
The heart of the festival lies in the incredible sand sculptures that line the Pier 60 area. Live music fills the air ands treet performers showcase their talents, from acrobats and jugglers to magicians and musicians. Local artisans and vendors set up booths, offering unique souvenirs, handcrafted gifts, and delicious treats.
Go Shopping At The Countryside Mall
Countryside Mall boasts a wide array of stores catering to various tastes and preferences. Anchor stores like Macy's, Dillard's, and JCPenney offer a broad range of products, from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics.
Discover the latest trends and styles at fashion boutiques such as H&M, Forever 21, and Zara. Enjoy a variety of fast-food options and casual dining choices at the mall's food court, featuring eateries like Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, and Subway.
Take A Cooking Class
There are several cooking classes offered in Clearwater, where you can learn how to make traditional Florida dishes. Patchworks - Nature's Food Patch is a local community center that offers free monthly cooking classes covering various topics, from healthy meal prep to international cuisines.
For the hands-on learner, Palate Culinary Services, AJ's Kitchen Drawer offers a variety of classes, from knife skills and pasta making to ethnic cuisines and baking. For the specific interest, The Spice Station and Sunsets & Scones are best.
Go Parasailing
Parasailing is a great way to get a bird's-eye view of Clearwater Beach. You can even go tandem parasailing with a friend or family member. As you ascend into the sky, you'll experience a sense of weightlessness and freedom, with panoramic views.
From your vantage point high above the water, you'll have the opportunity to take in breathtaking views of Clearwater Beach, with its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant coastal scenery. You may even spot marine life such as dolphins, sea turtles, and rays swimming below.
Play Miniature Golf
Clearwater is a haven for miniature golf enthusiasts, offering a variety of courses that cater to all ages and skill levels. So, grab your putter, channel your inner mini-golf pro, and get ready for some putt-tacular fun!
Embark on an adventure through the jungles of Africa at Congo River Golf. This 18-hole course features waterfalls, caves, exotic animal encounters (including a chance to feed gators!), and challenging obstacles. It's a great choice for families and groups looking for a fun and interactive experience.
Visit The Imagine Museum
The Imagine Museum is a unique cultural institution dedicated to showcasing the art, history, and technology of contemporary glass sculpture. The museum boasts a diverse collection of over 500 glass sculptures created by renowned artists from around the world.
These pieces span various styles, techniques, and themes, showcasing the versatility and beauty of glass as an artistic medium. Visitors can expect to encounter works ranging from delicate vessels and intricate sculptures to large-scale installations that push the boundaries of traditional glass art.
Go Horseback Riding On The Beach
Imagine the gentle rhythm of hooves on the sand, the cool Gulf breeze caressing your face, and the vast turquoise expanse of the ocean stretching before you. Horseback riding on the beach in Clearwater is an experience that combines the thrill of horseback riding with the serenity of the beach, creating an unforgettable memory.
Several stables in the Clearwater area offer beach horseback riding adventures. Some popular options include Cypress Breeze Farm, Florida Beach Horses, and Ruxton's Ranch Rides.
See A Show At The Ruth Eckerd Hall
Ruth Eckerd Hall is a renowned performing arts venue known for its diverse array of live performances, concerts, and cultural events. The programming is incredibly diverse, featuring a variety of genres including classical, jazz, rock, pop, Broadway, comedy, and more.
Whether it's a chart-topping artist, a celebrated orchestra, or an up-and-coming band, it showcases top-tier talent from around the globe. Families can enjoy a variety of family-friendly performances and events including children's theater productions and interactive shows.
Explore The Shops And Restaurants On Beach Avenue
Beach Avenue is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. You can find everything from souvenirs to swimwear to seafood. Aloha On the Beach sells beach gear, swimwear, and souvenirs. Beach Bazaar sells beach supplies, souvenirs, and gifts.
Frenchy's South Beach Cafe and The Salty Crab Bar & Grill North Beach have delicious burgers and pizza. Crabby's Bar & Grill Clearwater, Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar, Sandbar serves drool-worthy seafood.
Go Kayaking Or Paddleboarding
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular water activities in Clearwater Florida. Kayaking opportunities abound in Clearwater, with options to explore the Gulf of Mexico, Intracoastal Waterway, and nearby mangrove estuaries. Popular launch points include Clearwater Beach, Sand Key Park, and Moccasin Lake Nature Park.
One of the most popular paddleboarding experiences in Clearwater is embarking on a sunset paddle, where participants can witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sun sinking below the horizon while gliding across the water.
Take A Walk Or Bike Ride On The Pinellas Trail
The Pinellas Trail is a 47-mile paved trail that goes from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, a refreshing bike ride, or a scenic jog, offering stunning views, diverse landscapes, and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.
The entire trail is pedestrian-friendly, with a smooth, paved surface that's easy on the feet. If you're looking for a more active adventure, cycling the Pinellas Trail is a fantastic option. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for riders of all levels.
Go Deep-sea Fishing
If you're looking for an adventure and things to see and do in Clearwater Florida, try deep-sea fishing off the coast of Clearwater. Charter fishing boats are readily available, offering half-day, full-day, and even multi-day excursions for deep-sea fishing adventures.
You could catch grouper, snapper, mackerel, or even a marlin. Most charter boats provide all the necessary fishing tackle and gear, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. However, anglers are welcome to bring their equipment if they prefer.
Visit The Florida Holocaust Museum
Things to see in Clearwater Florida include the Florida Holocaust Museum. It stands as a powerful testament to the memory of those who perished during the Holocaust and a beacon of education against future atrocities.
The FHM's mission is to "teach the lessons of the Holocaust to inspire action against bigotry, hatred, and violence." Through its permanent and temporary exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives, the museum strives to honor the memory of the victims of the Holocaust and other genocides.
