17 Best Things to Do in
Clearwater, Florida

Consistently ranked one of America's best beaches. Bright white sand, calm Gulf water, and the famous Pier 60 sunset celebration. Arrive early in summer for parking.

Home to Winter the dolphin (of "Dolphin Tale" fame). A working marine animal rescue and rehabilitation facility with interactive experiences for all ages.

Every evening two hours before sunset, Pier 60 transforms into a street festival with artisans, performers, and food vendors against the backdrop of one of Florida's most photographed sunsets.

Accessible only by ferry or kayak, Caladesi is one of the few completely undeveloped Gulf barrier islands in Florida. Ranked among the top 10 beaches in the country multiple times.

A quieter alternative to Clearwater Beach just south of the main strip. County park with pristine beach, picnic areas, and excellent shelling along the shoreline.

Multiple outfitters rent kayaks and paddleboards along Clearwater's intracoastal waterway. Mangrove tunnels, dolphin sightings, and access to uninhabited islands.

A Clearwater Beach institution. Two-hour sunset and daytime pirate cruises aboard a tall ship in Clearwater Harbor. Popular with families and adults alike.

One of Tampa Bay's most scenic waterfront parks. Ancient Tocobaga Indian mound, Spanish-style pavilion, picnic areas, and sweeping bay views.

The ferry departure point for Caladesi Island. Also an outstanding destination in its own right with dog-friendly beach, osprey nesting areas, and nature trails.

15 minutes north of Clearwater. A charming Scottish-heritage coastal town with craft breweries, waterfront dining, boutique shops, and one of Florida's best walkable Main Streets.

30 minutes north. The largest Greek community in the US, with authentic Greek restaurants, sponge diving demonstrations, and bakeries that rival anything in Athens.

One of the Southeast's premier free jazz festivals held each October in Coachman Park. Four nights of national and international jazz, blues, and R&B acts.

Clearwater Beach's main pedestrian shopping strip with souvenir shops, local boutiques, T-shirt stores, and ice cream along the beachfront walk.

Multiple operators offer tandem and solo parasailing from the beach. Views stretch from the Sunshine Skyway to Caladesi Island on clear days.

Clearwater is one of Florida's top charter fishing ports. Full-day offshore trips targeting grouper, snapper, and amberjack. Half-day nearshore trips also available.

The Philadelphia Phillies' High-A affiliate plays spring and summer games at BayCare Ballpark. Affordable family entertainment in a beautiful outdoor stadium.

The quietest of Clearwater's beaches. A small, secluded strip on the southern end of the barrier island away from the main tourist corridor.