8 Reasons Why Clearwater Beach Wins Awards

Wondering why year after year Clearwater Beach is among the top beaches in the country on everyone's list? Let's take a look!

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Stunning Clearwater Beach was named one of the best white sand beaches in the world!

Wonder what it takes to be named to Travel + Leisure's list of top white sand beaches in the world? Clearwater Beach was also named the #1 Beach in the South by USA Today in 2023, and it was TripAdvisor’s #1 Beach in the U.S. for 2016, 2018 and 2019. Sugar-white sand, warm Gulf waters and fiery sunsets are just a few ingredients that play into earning these beachy accolades. While the list is nearly endless, we’ve rounded up some of the top reasons Clearwater Beach is #1. 

1

Sugar-White Sand

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Ever dig your toes in the sand on Clearwater Beach? It feels like you’re walking on powdered sugar. The sparkling quartz crystals that cover the beach originally came from the Appalachian Mountains, washed down into rivers that led to the Gulf of Mexico, and were swept onto the shores of our pristine beach. And best of all, when you sink your toes into our sand, it’s cool to the touch! No shoes required! Dig your toes in the sugar-white sand on Clearwater Beach and see for yourself why this beach is everyone's favorite.

2

Warm Gulf Waters

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With our warm, Gulf waters, you can enjoy Clearwater Beach year-round! Summer water temperatures average a balmy 82 – 88 degrees and even in winter, water temperatures generally hover near 70 degrees. Make waves during your next vacation and dive into Florida’s Gulf Coast!

3

Dolphin Love

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Catch a dolphin cruise and say hi to some of the friendliest locals in town! Whether you take a chartered dolphin tour or just spend time at the beach, you’re sure to see dolphins leap and play in the wild.

See Boat Tours
4

Stellar Accommodations

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What’s better than waking up on America's Best Beaches?! From boutique hotels to luxury resorts, there’s no shortage of great places to rest your head. Memorable accommodations are just another reason Clearwater Beach is award-winning.

See Places to Stay in Clearwater Beach
5

World-Renowned Attractions

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Take a break from the sun and visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to many rescued and rehabilitated marine mammals, including manatees. While you’re there, get a sneak peek into the world of marine life rescue at the working animal hospital and meet some of the resident sea turtles.

See Clearwater Marine Aquarium Details
6

Beachside Dining

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Dinner and a view of a gorgeous, white-sand beach? Don’t mind if we do! Restaurants on Clearwater Beach dish out stunning views of the beach along with delicious meals featuring local, fresh-off-the-boat seafood, tropical cocktails and more scrumptious options!

See Dining in Clearwater Beach
7

Nonstop Fun

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The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down! Spend your days soaking in the sunshine on Clearwater Beach and your evenings at Pier 60’s nightly sunset celebration. Enjoy live entertainment and shop local vendors, all with a gorgeous sunset backdrop.

See Pier 60's Sunset Celebration
8

Awe-Inspiring Sunsets

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There’s no better way to end the day than by catching a fiery sunset. Pull up a beach chair and watch nature’s greatest show, every night on Clearwater Beach.

See the Best Places to Watch Sunset