Clearwater Beach

Powder-Soft Sand, Postcard-Ready Sunsets

If Clearwater Beach had a theme song, it would be “Walking on Sunshine.” This fun, friendly, casual beach town in the Tampa Bay area is always abuzz with activity and good vibes. It’s no wonder Clearwater Beach was named the #1 beach in Florida, the #2 beach in the U.S., and among the top 20 beaches in the world by Tripadvisor!

Clearwater Beach stretches along a barrier island on Florida's Gulf Coast. Known for its white quartz sand, calm shallow waters, and consistent rankings among the top beaches in the U.S., the area is anchored by Pier 60, where a nightly Sunset Celebration draws visitors with street performers and local vendors. Clearwater Beach offers easy access to water sports, fishing charters, and a walkable strip of hotels, restaurants, and shops. Its combination of family-friendly conditions and lively nightlife makes it one of the best beach destinations in the country.

Tripadvisor named Clearwater Beach the #1 Beach in Florida!

Plan Your Beach Day

The beach is the center of the community here, with sugary sands and emerald waters that are just steps from hotels and restaurants. It's no wonder why Clearwater Beach made Travel + Leisure's list of "The 15 Best White-Sand Beaches in the World" in 2025. Rent a shaded cabana for the day – all you need to do is settle in and an attendant will come by. For a low-key beach day, walk to the north, where the crowds thin out some. Just to the south, beyond Clearwater Pass, you'll find Sand Key Park – a stunning 95-acre oasis featuring pristine beaches and expansive parkland. No matter what spot you choose, you’ll always find plenty of amenities close by.

Help keep our paradise beautiful with these easy beach tips. Find more information on planning a sustainable trip in St. Pete-Clearwater or if you need accessibility information, check out our guide to accessible beaches.

Dive into America's Favorite Beaches

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One Perfect Day in Clearwater Beach

With its sugar-white sands and laid-back charm, Clearwater Beach is the kind of place that turns a simple day into a slice of paradise.

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Top Things to Do

While the beach is the big draw, there are literally hundreds of things to do here in the Tampa Bay area. Sightseeing and dolphin cruises set sail all day long. Kids will love seeing the sea turtles, dolphins and other rescued sea creatures being cared for at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Don't miss Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, a swashbuckling family adventure aboard a replica pirate ship. Adults can savor sunset with a cocktail or dinner cruise. You’ll also find parasailing as well as paddle board and kayak rentals.

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Savor views and foods

A Delicious Day in Clearwater

Be sure to spend some time tempting your taste buds here and nearby in Clearwater Beach, where salty air and Gulf views enhance your dining experience. Nearby, Safety Harbor has an outsized culinary scene. In fact, one of its restaurants – The Tides Market – was recently recommended by the MICHELIN Guide Florida.

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Top Clearwater Beach Restaurants

Some of our most iconic restaurants are found beachside (dinner is served with a side of sunset). No matter what you're in the mood for - whether fine dining or beachy casual - we've got you covered with these top restaurant recommendations.

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Clearwater Beach Airport Shuttle Service

Don’t want to hassle with a rental car? The Grouper Airport Express offers an affordable, stress-free way to travel between St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) and Clearwater Beach. With on-demand rides that can be booked the day of your flight or up to two months in advance, it’s a convenient and budget-friendly option. Plus, the shuttles are wheelchair accessible for added convenience.

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