Clearwater Beach is known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or playing beach volleyball. There are also various water activities available such as parasailing and jet skiing. Don't miss the sunset celebration at Pier 60 for live music and street performers.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is not your typical aquarium. It's a rescue center for marine animals, and you can learn about their stories while visiting. Meet Winter, the dolphin from the movie "Dolphin Tale," and watch a live presentation about animal care.
Caladesi Island State Park is a natural oasis and one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Florida. Take a ferry ride to the island and enjoy activities such as kayaking, hiking, and shell hunting. The island's pristine beach is perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an African-themed adventure park with thrilling roller coasters, shows, and animal encounters. Take a safari ride to see giraffes, zebras, and other exotic animals up close, or ride the Cheetah Hunt coaster for a rush of adrenaline.
Great Explorations Children's Museum is an interactive museum for kids to learn through play. They can pretend to be a firefighter, a vet, or a chef, among many other roles. The museum also has a toddler area and an outdoor playground.
Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks is a historic district with a Greek heritage. You can take a boat tour to see how sponge diving is done or visit the sponge market to buy natural sponges. The area also has many shops and restaurants to explore.
Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a peaceful retreat within the city. You can hike the trails to see birds, turtles, and other wildlife, or visit the education center to learn about environmental conservation. The park also has a boardwalk and a butterfly garden.
Clearwater is easily accessible by car or public transportation, but a car is recommended for flexibility and convenience. Expect to pay around $25-30 per day for rental cars. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. Parking may be challenging at busy destinations such as Clearwater Beach and Busch Gardens, so plan accordingly.
If you have more time, add a day trip to St. Petersburg to explore the arts and culture scene. If you have less time, prioritize Clearwater Beach, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Busch Gardens. Avoid traveling during peak season (March to July) to save on costs and avoid crowds.
The nearest airport to Clearwater is St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), located 11 miles away from the city center. PIE mainly serves domestic flights from airlines such as Allegiant, Sun Country, and United. Tampa International Airport (TPA) is another option, located 19 miles away from Clearwater. TPA serves both domestic and international flights from various major airlines.