About This Beach
Clearwater Beach, Florida, is the sparkling jewel of the Gulf Coast — a sun-soaked paradise where sugar-white sands meet calm turquoise waters. Consistently ranked among “America’s Best Beaches” by TripAdvisor and USA Today, Clearwater offers everything from beachside relaxation to vibrant entertainment, family fun, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
Located just west of Tampa and St. Petersburg, Clearwater Beach blends small-town charm with resort-style excitement. Visitors love Pier 60’s nightly sunset celebration, the walkable Beach Walk promenade, and an endless lineup of water activities like parasailing, dolphin cruises, and paddleboarding.
📜 History & Unique Features
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Clearwater Beach’s name originates from its clear Gulf waters, first settled in the 1800s.
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The island developed rapidly after the Memorial Causeway Bridge opened in 1926.
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Pier 60 has become the centerpiece of the beach, hosting nightly festivals and street performers.
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Clearwater Marine Aquarium is famous for rescuing marine life, including “Winter,” the dolphin from Dolphin Tale.
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The beach routinely ranks in the Top 10 Beaches in the U.S., celebrated for its clean sand, accessibility, and year-round sunshine.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak season with events and festivals.
Fall (Sep–Nov): Fewer crowds, great sunsets, and mild temperatures.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Sunshine and warmth while the rest of the U.S. cools down.
Things To Do
- Swimming & Sunbathing
- Pier 60 Sunset Festival
- Dolphin-watching cruises
- Jet skiing & Parasailing
- Paddleboarding & Kayaking
- Beach Volleyball
- Fishing Charters
- Exploring Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Plan Your Visit
Plan Your Beach Trip
Turn your beach search into a complete trip — book stays, discover experiences, and prepare like a pro.
Amenities
- Lifeguards year-round
- Public restrooms and outdoor showers
- Dozens of oceanfront resorts and restaurants
- Paid parking lots and garages near the beach
- Beach chair and umbrella rentals
- Accessible boardwalk and beach wheelchairs
- Family playgrounds and shaded pavilions
- Water taxi and trolley transportation
Beach Hours
Beach Hours
Open 24/7
Where to Stay
Opal Sands Resort: Sleek, modern resort with infinity pool and spa.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach: Family-friendly with rooftop pool and cabanas.
Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel: Mid-range stay with unbeatable views.
Hampton Inn & Suites: Budget-friendly comfort near Beach Walk.
Events & Festivals
Clearwater Jazz Holiday (October): Nationally acclaimed music festival.
Clearwater Super Boat National Championship (September): High-speed marine racing.
Sunsets at Pier 60 Daily Festival: Year-round evening celebration.
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade (December): Festive coastal tradition.
Hours/Lifeguards
Pier 60: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunset Celebration: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM daily (weather permitting)
Pricing
Parking: $2–$3/hour ($20/day typical)
Pier 60 Fishing: $10 (adults) | $8 (kids/seniors)
Dolphin Cruise: $25–$35/person
Jet Ski Rental: $90/hour
Beach Chair + Umbrella: $35/day
Nearby Attractions
Caladesi Island State Park: Unspoiled paradise accessible by ferry.
Honeymoon Island State Park: Great for shelling and nature walks.
Downtown Clearwater: Shops, restaurants, and live music at Coachman Park.
Tampa Bay Area: Busch Gardens, Florida Aquarium, and professional sports nearby.
Food & Drinks
Top Picks:
Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill: Local legend for grouper sandwiches and beach views.
Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar: Laid-back classic with live music.
Island Way Grill: Upscale seafood and sushi near the marina.
Caretta on the Gulf: Elegant fine dining at Sandpearl Resort.
Crabby’s Dockside: Family favorite with rooftop bar and Gulf views.
Jimmy’s Crows Nest: Rooftop bar for panoramic sunsets.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
Alcohol is prohibited on the beach (except in resort zones).
The sunsets at Pier 60 are world-famous — bring your camera.
Visit midweek for fewer crowds.
Stay hydrated — Gulf Coast heat can be intense, especially in summer.
Dolphins are frequently spotted near the pier and Sand Key Bridge.
Safety & Rules
Dogs not allowed on Clearwater Beach (use Sand Key Dog Park).
Swim in designated lifeguard zones.
Avoid feeding wildlife (especially seagulls!).
Observe red/yellow/green flags for water safety.
FAQs
Can you swim year-round?
Absolutely — Gulf waters stay warm even in winter.
Is alcohol allowed?
Only at licensed beachfront bars or private resorts.
Are there dolphins nearby?
Yes — daily sightings from the pier and boat tours.
Contact Information
Location
Pier 60 / Clearwater Beach
1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA
Getting There:
From Tampa: 40 minutes via FL-60 W / Courtney Campbell Causeway
From St. Petersburg: 35 minutes via US-19 N
Nearest Airport: Tampa International Airport (TPA), 22 miles away
Parking: Metered lots and garages ($2–$3/hour or $20/day)
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