City Guide: Clearwater, Florida
Clearwater, Florida is located just outside of Tampa Bay on Florida’s east coast, putting the region in perfect proximity to beaches, dining, shopping, nightlife, and other fun Florida attractions.
Clearwater is known for its year-round summer weather and award-winning beaches. Beautiful white sand and clear, shallow water make this beach an ideal playground for families
Aside from its beach scene, Clearwater’s revitalized downtown area has to offer. The Cleveland Street District, overlooking the beautiful Clearwater Harbor and Marina, provides a stunning backdrop for a variety of concerts, festivals, and exhibits that delight throughout the year.
To help you plan a trip to gorgeous Clearwater, I’ve partnered with Hotels.com to compile this guide of the top places to stay, eat, and play in Clearwater, Florida.
STAY
Clearwater, Florida is home to a variety of different lodging options from boutique bed and breakfasts to luxury beachfront resorts.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
The Hyatt Regency Clearwater is the epitome of coastal luxury. The property is a residential-like escape, located steps from the Gulf and famous Pier 60. They have 287 over-sized rooms, a spa, onsite fine dining, and a pool deck on the eighth floor that’s perfect for catching the sunset.
Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach
Voted one of the top resorts in all of Florida, Sandpearl Clearwater Beach is a stunning lodging option for those who want to experience the best of what Clearwater Beach has to offer. The resort blends the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast with premium comforts and warm, personalized service. From the coastal-inspired décor in their guest rooms and suites to Clearwater Beach’s only Four-Diamond restaurant (Caretta on the Gulf), you’ll find signature amenities around every corner and relaxation reflected in every detail.
Stay in comfort with all of the amenities needed to enjoy home away from home in Clearwater Beach! Located in the heart of Clearwater, Hotel Cabanas is now offering of full-kitchen vacation rentals. These vacation rentals have been fully renovated and feature refined, yet relaxed beach-casual décor and the convenience of a full kitchen.
EAT
Touted as the “best poke in Clearwater Beach”, Poke Havana is a must when visiting Florida’s east coast. They have endless poke bowl options and plenty of customization choices, so you can create the perfect poke bowl for yourself. Aside from poke, they also offer a variety of Cuban-inspired sandwiches.
Big Storm Brewing Co. is one of the fastest-growing independent craft breweries in Florida. Big Storm’s innovative craft beers have received critical acclaim for the past five consecutive years, winning 2016’s Best Florida Beer Championship with their Oktoberfest Marzen Lager. Today, Big Storm is a true pioneer using local ingredients like citrus and wildflower honey, brewing more than 20 different beers, including their popular Arcus Southern Pale Ale, Wavemaker® Amber Ale, Oats in Hose Oatmeal Stout, Tropic Pressure Florida Ale®, and Palm Bender Gulf Coast IPA.
Frenchy’s is an institution in Florida. They have 5 locations across the state and the one in Clearwater is a favourite among tourists and locals alike. Their beachside, Clearwater spot serves up famous super grouper sandwich and other fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood. If you’re looking for the perfect spot for Florida seafood in Clearwater, this is it!
PLAY
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is the home of the “Dolphin Tale” movies. The aquarium also offers animal interaction programs, dolphin photo opportunities and stingray feedings. Guests can visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to learn about the centre’s efforts to rehabilitate injured dolphins and sea turtles and protect the gorgeous waters of coastal Florida.
Pier 60 is one of the most iconic sites to visit in Clearwater. Pier 60 features a 1,080-foot fishing pier and recreational park, with a bait house, telescopes and six covered pavilions. The Pier 60 bait house offers a complete line of fishing tackle, T-shirts, souvenirs, drinks and snacks, as well as rental equipment, a full line of bait and a staff that is knowledgeable and eager to assist.
When you’re in one of the most gorgeous beach towns in the country, a day at the beach is necessary. Caladesi Island, off the north end of Clearwater Beach, offers one of the few untouched pristine beaches in Florida, which is why it’s regularly recognized as one of the world’s best. It’s a short ferry ride from Honeymoon Island State Park or accessible by kayak or personal boat. Pack a bag, don’t forgot your sunscreen, and find a spot on the gorgeous white-sand shores for the day. It’s the perfect cap to a beautiful stay in Clearwater Beach!
As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. If you are comfortable with traveling, please travel responsibly and within regulation as any travel is at your own risk.
