8 Reasons Why Clearwater Beach is #1
Wondering why year after year Clearwater Beach is among the top beaches in the country on everyone's list? Let us break it down for you.
Clearwater Beach's powdery white sand is part of what makes it one of America's Best Beaches. The sand actually comes from the Appalachian Mountains and is made of quartz rather than sea shells.
Wonder what it takes to be named the #1 Beach in the U.S.? Let us be the judge! Home to Clearwater Beach, TripAdvisor’s #1 Beach in the U.S. for 2016, 2018 and 2019, we know all about what separates the best beaches from the rest. Sugar-white sand, warm Gulf waters and fiery sunsets are just a few ingredients that play into earning a shot at that coveted top spot. While the list is nearly endless, we’ve rounded up some of the top reasons Clearwater Beach is #1. Check it out below!
Sugar-White Sand
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 it’s been named TripAdvisor’s #1 beach in the U.S.!
Warm Gulf Waters
With our warm, Gulf waters, you can enjoy the #1 Beach in the U.S. 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!
Dolphin Love
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.
Stellar Accommodations
What’s better than waking up on America’s #1 Beach?! 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 TripAdvisor’s #1 Beach in the U.S.
World-Renowned Attractions
Take a break from the sun and visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter and Hope, the stars of Dolphin Tale/Dolphin Tale 2! 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.
Beachside Dining
Dinner and a view of America’s #1 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!
Nonstop Fun
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.
Awe-Inspiring Sunsets
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.