Mention Florida, and images of pristine beaches and greenery rush to the mind. Clearwater in Florida is a 100-year-old city blessed with natural beauty and abundant marine life.
It is home to two of Florida’s most popular state parks and close to the Gulf of Mexico. The city gives you unmatched shopping and dining experiences and lets you connect with nature while creating memories with your loved ones.
Visit one of the best beaches in the country and explore the city with our guide of top attractions and things to do in Clearwater.
Clearwater Beach
Wondering what to do in Clearwater? Well, there are plenty of options. Visit Clearwater Beach, the main beach in the area, known for its beautiful shoreline and turquoise waters.
It has been voted as one of the best beaches in Florida several times by travel industry leaders. You can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities here, including snorkeling, parasailing, jet-skiing, boat tours, and fishing.
You may also choose to simply stroll around the pedestrian-friendly Beach Walk and take in the beauty and calm of this place. The area also has a mini-market with shops, restaurants, hotels, and other attractions.
You can head to Pier 60 to view the gorgeous sunset and enjoy the number of entertaining events and amenities there.
By Stepheneric9, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/izPTAeagcfxaFFqg6
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Visiting this aquarium is among the important ‘Clearwater things to do’. It is mainly dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of injured, sick, and endangered marine animals.
It also strives for public education, conservation, and research. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a convenient place to get close to these animals due to its small size and intimate setting.
The staff at the aquarium is knowledgeable and passionate about their work. You can find turtles, dolphins, sharks, pelicans, stingrays, and many others.
The aquarium’s shark exhibit is very popular, as is its dolphin exhibit, which houses “Winter” and “Hope” who starred in the movie “Dolphin Tales”. The aquarium also has a Rescue Store where you can shop for apparel, toys, and much more.
By qwesy qwesy, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA | Timing: Monday to Sunday : 10:00 am – 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/cmaquarium?share | Phone Number: +1 727-441-1790
Sand Key Park
The beautiful Sand Key Park has two areas – a beach and a park. This 95-acre landmark is extremely popular and makes it to the list of things to do in Clearwater.
It also has a salt marsh with benches where you can sit, relax and observe the herons, great horned owls, and roseate spoonbills. You may also spot sea turtles there.
The picnic area has shades, cabanas, grills, picnic tables, restrooms, and a kids’ playground, making it an ideal place to spend a day. It also has a dog park.
You can enjoy fishing and surfing, too. Sand Key is also a perfect venue for beach weddings, receptions, and parties.
By Dlohcierekim, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 1060 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/jK7y2CjofjTPG5tLA | Phone Number: +1 727-588-4852
Pier 60
Stop thinking about what to do in Clearwater and head straight to Pier 60. It has a 1,080-feet fishing pier with a bait house, telescopes, and six covered pavilions.
If you are interested in fishing, you must definitely visit this pier, as the bait house offers a complete line of fishing tackle, rental equipment, a full line of bait, and staff who are eager to assist.
It is lit at night, so you can even enjoy night fishing. The bait house also has T-shirts, souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. The pier has a recreational park and a well-equipped playground, which is one of the largest beach playgrounds on the Gulf.
Pier 60 is also known for its spectacular sunsets. The pier comes alive with various events, activities, musicians, and jugglers in the evening.
Address: Clearwater, FL 33767, USA | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/CQjvg5FRwNDFRLst8
Encounters with Dolphins
Encounters with Dolphins is a sightseeing tour on a 40-feet excursion boat. They offer multiple rides from the Clearwater Beach Marina every day and have various tour options.
You can opt for daily tours with the general public or reserve a private tour. They also take special event bookings such as birthday celebrations, corporate parties, weddings, rehearsal dinner socials, and more.
On tour, you can also view dolphins in their natural habitat. All the trips take a half-an-hour break at the Compass Islands where you get an opportunity to collect shells, swim, and snorkel. The kids also get a chance to hunt for treasure.
By Ste Elmore, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 25 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 09:00 am – 09:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/3Nobumwi3p5RkMpv9 | Phone Number: +1 727-466-0375
Beach Walk
The Beach Walk is a long pedestrian-friendly path lined with palm trees at the Clearwater Beach. It lets you enjoy a quiet stroll while taking in the ambiance around.
It will lead you to the local market with boutiques, craft shops, and ice cream parlors, where you can browse through souvenirs and collectibles while savoring some yummy ice cream.
You can enjoy most of the city’s action here.
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By Michel Rathwell, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/3SJ4eYKeiuj2kj7a8
Moccasin Lake Nature Park
If you would like to take a break from the busy beaches, then surely visit this Clearwater attraction. The Moccasin Lake Nature Park, situated at the heart of the city, provides you with an otherworldly experience with its tranquility and serenity.
It is spread over almost 51 acres and has a number of ponds and creeks in addition to the main lake. You can go for hikes and take your kids on educational hiking tours.
The wildlife at Moccasin Lake Nature Park consists of turtles and an array of birds. You can also visit the bird sanctuary, which houses bald eagles, hawks, and other injured birds. The kids will also love and enjoy the butterfly garden here.
Address: 2750 Park Trail Ln, Clearwater, FL 33759, USA | Timing: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qdHgbpJni6oQkQGdA | Phone Number: +1 727-562-4315
Ruth Eckerd Hall
The Ruth Eckerd Hall is a premium performing arts venue spread over 73,000 square feet and can seat almost 2,000 spectators. It is considered one of the top-performing venues in the country.
The hall features continental seating and showcases performances of different genres, including world-renowned classical artists and dance companies to dance recitals, Broadway, theatrical pieces, and children’s performances.
By Zhyar Merlin, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 1111 McMullen Booth Rd, Clearwater, FL 33759, USA | Timing: Visit https://www.rutheckerdhall.com/ for more information | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/UuaN43xkfQHPCDR7A | Phone Number: +1 727-791-7400
Honeymoon Island State Park
As the name suggests, Honeymoon Island is a major attraction for newlyweds. The most protected area of the island, the Honeymoon Island State Park, is one of the most visited state parks in Florida.
Apart from its blue waters and clean shoreline, the park also features several nature trails, where you can spot ospreys, bald eagles, herons, egrets, and great horned owls. You can also have fun while fishing, watching dolphins and manatees, biking, paddling, hiking, or simply sunbathing.
The place also has picnic pavilions, bathhouses, bird observation areas, and a ferry ride to the Caladesi Island State Park.
Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698, USA | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to Sunset | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AnqqWXfAYrCRXCag9 | Phone Number: +1 727-241-6106
Pinellas Trail
The Pinellas Trail, also known as the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail, covers about 47 miles. In the north, it stretches up to Tarpon Springsand in the south, it stretches up to St. Petersburg. It passes through Clearwater, among many other cities.
The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is named after a former Pinellas County Administrator, Fred Marquis, and provides a unique green space for jogging, skating, and cycling. Many people commute to work using the trail. It is well marked with lights and signals and offers safe passing on major roads. You can take a stroll here and observe the city through another lens.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/LJR9YhHbxmaCYqZ47
Caladesi Island State Park
The Caladesi Island State Park is situated to the south of Honeymoon Island State Park and is accessible by a ferry or private boat from there.
It is a totally natural island, and in fact, is one of the few such in the Gulf Coast of Florida. It was rated America’s Best Beach in 2008. This island is secluded, and so, you get a perfect blend of peace and fun here.
The Caladesi Island State Park has many fun activities to offer, such as fishing, hiking, boating, paddling, canoeing, swimming, and snorkeling. It also has picnic pavilions, which can be reserved and has various camping options and a marina.
Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698, USA | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to Sunset | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/p5Ejxqi2ooGKqNds8 | Phone Number: +1 727-469-5918
Clearwater Threshers
If you are a sports fanatic, you will surely enjoy the game of Clearwater Threshers, which is a minor league baseball team. The team has been competing in the North Division since 2009 and plays almost 70 home games during the season. So, you can surely catch one.
The home ground for the Threshers is the BayCare Ballpark, which was earlier known as the Spectrum Field. It can seat almost 8,500 people and gives you a good view from everywhere. It is also the spring training home of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Address: 601 Old Coachman Rd., Clearwater, FL 33765, USA | Timing: Visit https://www.milb.com/clearwater for more information | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/NR6TdyjGJTihz83H7 | Phone Number: +1 727-712-4300
Cleveland Street District
A visit to Cleveland Street District is a must on the list of things to do in Clearwater. The District provides a spectacular view of the Clearwater Harbor and Marina and is known for its stunning backdrops for concerts and events.
The palm-tree-lined road here has benches to sit and relax, and the district also offers a number of shopping and dining opportunities. It hosts a popular farmers’ market and various exhibitions and festivals throughout the year.
If you are a foodie, you will love the array of food options available here. Cleveland Street District is also home to the quaint Capitol Theater since 1921.
By Sam Bobko, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: 501 Cleveland St, Clearwater, FL 33755, USA | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/uqK36n9nzLC6fnvb7
Cliff Stephens Park
If you are looking for things to do in Clearwater this weekend, then make sure to visit Cliff Stephens Park in Pinellas County. It is an important Clearwater attraction covering an area of 44 acres.
This lush green oasis has a number of trails for biking, hiking, and inline skating. You can also enjoy boating and fishing from any of the four docks here.
That’s not all; the park has a 19-station exercise course and a frisbee golf course. It also has a picnic area with tables for you to enjoy a nice day out with your family.
Address: 901 Fairwood Ave, Clearwater, FL 33759, USA | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 06:00 am – 10:00 pm| Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ovYSmUYYytYECfrU9 | Phone Number: +1 727-562-4800
Down South Kite and Paddle
If you are looking for fun things to do in Clearwater, Down South Kite and Paddle will be your answer. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy water activities and the beauty of the local waterways.
You can have the time of your life while riding the kiteboard, which combines sailing, surfing, and wakeboarding. You can also learn paddleboarding here. You can take a guided eco-tour of the mangroves and waterways or just take off on your own adventure of observing the pelicans and fishes. Whatever you choose to do, it will surely be a day to remember while visiting this place at Pinellas County.
Address: 1616 Clark St, Clearwater, FL 33755, USA | Timing: Visit http://ds-kp.com/ for more information | Phone Number: +1 727-422-2736
Columbia Restaurant
Columbia Restaurant is a branch of a long-standing Cuban restaurant, which was first established in 1905 by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez Sr. in Tampa.
It has since been owned by the same family and is the world’s largest Spanish restaurant. They serve authentic Cuban meals such as black bean soup and tapas, and their Cuban desserts like churros and tres leches are not to be missed.
The restaurant overlooks the waterways and provides a perfect place for lunches and celebratory dinners. The deck here is also a lovely place to enjoy wines and cocktails with your loved ones. Surely visit this place to get a taste of history and authenticity.
Address: 1241 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA | Timing: Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 09:00 pm; Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am-10:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/columbia-restaurant-sand-key?share | Phone Number: +1 727-596-8400
Florida Botanical Gardens
Located in Largo, this garden covers an area of 182 acres and has native flora, fauna, and natural resources in abundance. It also has a formal wedding garden and areas, which showcase some of the rarest natural habitats.
There are unique demonstration gardens that enable visitors to admire the beauty and learn about various plants. Visitors also get to enjoy a closer look at the region’s plants and animals at The Wetlands Walkway and Wildlife Overlook.
The garden will soon have a Children’s Discovery Garden with an outdoor classroom, potting area, and play equipment. The garden hosts a number of educational classes and programs and also has docent-led private tours.
Address: 12520 Ulmerton Rd, Largo, FL 33774, USA | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 07:00 am – 05:00 pm, 05:30 pm – 09:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xMJGy5Z2QHCRFJZH6 | Phone Number: +1 727-582-2100
Gulf Coast Kayak
This facility has been operating in Matlacha since 1992 and has made it to the list of things to do in Clearwater due to its reputation of providing a fun experience to visitors. You can discover the beauty of the peaceful waters of the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve with a variety of stable and easy paddle kayaks.
They provide guided eco-tours of the mangroves, which were paddled by the Calusa Indians over a thousand years ago. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the area on your own.
The Pine Island Sound and Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve are home to hundreds of birds and marine life. You may encounter dolphins, manatees, stingrays, sea turtles, and many more while exploring the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. If you love fishing, then this place will be your paradise.
Address: 4120 Pine Island Rd, Matlacha, FL 33993, USA | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 08:30 am – 05:00pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/GulfCoastKayak?share | Phone Number: +1 239-283-1125
Clearwater spoils you with a number of beautiful options. The beaches, mangroves, and waterways are such that visiting them once will leave you wanting more.
It not only provides you with serenity but also lets you have fun. We hope this guide will let you plan your trip accordingly and enjoy it to the fullest.