Best Places to Visit in Clearwater, Florida
Clearwater is one of Florida’s most remarkable vacation places. Its fine sands, stunning beaches, and crystal clear water (thus the name) welcome visitors all year round. It is a perfect getaway for people coming from the busy neighboring cities like Tampa and St. Petersburg. Whether the girls just wanna have sun or the guys need some vitamin sea, Clearwater is the place to be.
Being surrounded by a beautiful body of water, this sunny beach town offers plenty of activities and attractions. In fact, it is very common to see people swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, and doing water sports like kitesurfing, parasailing, or jet skiing all day long. Others also opt for more mellow activities like sunbathing, sightseeing, watching the sunset, or cruising.
While rich in water-related recreations, Clearwater is not just about sand, sun, and sea. It has other attention-worthy things to offer. So, in case you’re wondering what to do or where to go when in Clearwater, we are here to help. We have listed below the top 5 attractions in Clearwater, Florida for your next family trip.
While rich in water-related recreations, Clearwater is not just about sand, sun, and sea. It has other attention-worthy things to offer. So, in case you’re wondering what to do or where to go when in Clearwater, we are here to help. We have listed below the top 5 attractions in Clearwater, Florida for your next family trip.
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1. Clearwater BeachFirst on the list is of course Clearwater Beach. Voted as one of Florida’s best beaches, the 3-mile long coastline continues to receive awards and accolades for its soft sands and picturesque waters. This wide beach area indulges families, couples, and friends in various activities like strolling, playing volleyball, building sandcastles, etc. You’ve never been to Clearwater if you haven’t stepped foot in this beautiful place
2. Pier 60While you are at Clearwater Beach, you might as well check out Pier 60. Just a walking distance from the beach, Pier 60 is a popular hangout spot for families. It also serves as a fishing pier that stretches 1,080 feet long. Fishing aficionados will be delighted to know that the port offers year-round fishing with popular species of fish present in Clearwater’s diverse marine system. These include Grouper, Whiting, Bluefish, Seatrout, Sheepshead, Tarpon, Redfish, Black Drum, Snook, and Spanish Mackerel. Moreover, the pier transforms into a festive site in the evening with magicians, jugglers, musicians, and all sorts of entertainment available.
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3. Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Established in 1972, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is an excellent place to go especially for family trips. It is not just another marine exhibit or attraction. Rather, it is a renowned organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals. The aquarium is devoted to providing public education, research, and animal-assisted human therapy. Some of the marine animals found in the center are the following:
- Dolphins
- Sharks
- Turtles
- Stingrays
- Pelicans
- Otters
- Crabs
4. Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise
Want to complete the Clearwater voyage? Set sail on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise. Being part of Tampa Bay’s institution for over four decades, this pirate-themed ship gives families two hours of unique and fun amusements. Aboard, friendly pirate crews serve complimentary drinks for kids, as well as beverages for adults. There are also exciting activities like face painting, treasure hunting, water gun games, water-themed battles, and more.
5. Ruth Eckerd Hall
After all the strenuous activities on the beach, the cruising, and sightseeing, wouldn’t you just want a relaxing time to end your day? If that’s exactly what you have in mind, then visit Ruth Eckerd Hall. It is Clearwater’s central entertainment hub and premier performing arts center. Spanning 73,000 square feet, it hosts a variety of different programs, as well as famous personalities and performers. You can watch broadway shows, theatrical pieces, dance recitals, cabarets, comedies, and a lot more. Cozy amenities, drinks and snacks, fine dining, and terrace lounges are also offered to make your visit even more pleasurable.
Aside from the top 5 wonders we’ve listed above, we are also including these other highly-recommended spots to check out in Clearwater.
- Sand Key Park
- Clearwater Ferry
- StarLite Cruises
- Beach Walk
- Sky Surfing Aviation
- Cliff Stephens Park
- Celebration Station
- Splash Harbour Water Park
- Philippe Park
- Caladesi Island State Park
- Moccasin Lake Nature Park
- Clearwater Threshers at BayCare Ballpark
- Big Storm Brewing Co.
- The District
- Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
- Tampa Bay Grand Prix
- Honeymoon Island State Park
- Clearwater Historical Society Museum and Cultural Center
- Museum of Science and Industry
- Cleveland Street District
- Sky Surfing Aviation
- Bright House Field
- Clearwater Farmers Market
There are a lot of ways to explore Clearwater. Others prefer to walk around and enjoy the sand below their feet. Some also find cruising and boating a better way to get to know the town. There are also those who are extreme and wish to see the place in birds' eyes through a helicopter tour. Whatever your way is, Clearwater welcomes you. If you are a tourist visiting on your own vessel, the Clearwater Beach Marina can accommodate your needs. Whether it’s for docking, storing, or detailing your boat when in Clearwater, you can find whatever you require.
