Things To Do In Clearwater Beach, Florida
When vacation time comes and you are visiting Clearwater Beach Florida, many questions come up as to what to do, what attractions are near by and what is really worth seeing vs. what is a tourist trap. I have compiled this page and list from the eyes of a local to help you find what is worth seeing so you don’t waste your time or hard earned money doing things that aren’t worth it! Let’s get to the list!
Pier 60 - While this is a major attraction, it is worth seeing. Depending on the time of the year, seeing the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of America is always worth it! Pier 60 offers a small shop and fishing rod rental should you want to spend a little time fishing from the pier. While trophy catches are rare, you can still catch some smaller fish from the pier, or enjoy the world class sunsets we have here! Pier 60 is probably one of the top spots in the area for a killer sunset!
Top Restaurants in Clearwater Beach - While there are literally dozens to choose from I will give a short list here that will point you in the right direction.
Frenchys Grill - Best grouper sandwich around.
3 Daughters Brewery - Best local Beer (and fabulous views).
Best Steak - Blinkers On the Beach
Best Seafood - Salt Rock Grill - Located in Indian Rocks Beach, better get reservations ahead of time.
Best Hotel - Opal Sands - Best views, great rooms and wonderful food options on site.
Calidisi Island/ Honeymoon Island
There are many ways to get to both of these islands, however when it comes to best beaches in the United States, both of these are almost always in the top 5; while Calidisi has been named best beach in the United States many times. Accessible via ferry or it can be visited on one of our private tours; it’s worth the visit 1000 times over.
Dolphin Tours/ Shelling/ Sightseeing by Water - While there are many options Capt. Phil offers some of the best adventures around. With dolphin sightings virtually guaranteed and manatee sightings occurring regularly in the summer time, we have you covered! Should you want to hit the islands for some swimming and shelling time we have you covered there as well!
Downtown Dunedin - an “artsy” town with many craft breweries, small shops and a hometown feel you can’t get anywhere else - the 15 minute drive from Clearwater Beach is always worth it. Make sure to stop in at Lucky Lobster for a meal on the bike trail and enjoy live music there as well while you are visiting the spring training home to the Blue Jays! If you are looking for shopping - make the trip to Dunedin and you won’t be disappointed.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium - Please note, the marine aquarium is more of a rehabilitation facility for marine life than a true aquarium - if you want to see local marine life in an aquarium setting we recommend The Florida Aquarium located in Tampa. The Clearwater Aquarium is a great place to see how involvement in marine conservation can make a difference.
Sand Key State Park - With the largest and best beaches in the area, Sand Key State Park should be on everyone’s list of beaches to visit. Accessible parking and some of the clearest water in the area, Sand Key Sate Park is a top destination.
Belleair Bait & Tackle Best Local Bait and Tackle Shop - Head over to Belleair Bait and Tackle to get your fresh shrimp and rental rods for backcountry fishing and local knowledge. With helpful employees and the best selection of gear around, for any fisherman this is a key stop.