Things To Do In Clearwater

Located off of Florida’s west coast lies Clearwater, a vibrant city perfect for a vacation to forget the daily hustle and bustle of life and just relax. The city is known for its beaches, exciting tourist attractions and lively surroundings that will make you forget all your worries.

One of the most famous things about Clearwater is the Clearwater beach which has been ranked by the US News as one of Florida’s best beaches. This beach is everything! It has white soft sands and crystal clear water which is perfect for swimming and water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking and jet skiing.  

But, this city has more to offer! When you’re not enjoying thrilling water sports at the white sand beach, take some leisure time to explore Clearwater’s historical theatres, parks, shopping areas, and laid-back beachfront restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and meet their famous dolphin resident. Sports enthusiasts can catch a Philadelphia Phillies game at the BayCare Ballpark during MLB’s spring training season for the ultimate sports experience!

Tourist Attractions

Clearwater is the ultimate getaway with a little something for everyone and truly captures the essence of a beach vacation. There are several things for tourists to do here, and we have noted down all the top tourist attractions here in one place. 

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches that was recently crowned the No. 1 Beach in the South by USA Today. This lively, laid-back beach stretches along the Gulf, boasting 2.5 miles of pristine white sand and calm waters. Connected to Sand Key by a short bridge, it offers a marina, shopping, restaurants, and various activities like parasailing and dolphin-spotting boat tours. You can even hire and drive your own private boat or get a yatch with a captain if you don’t feel like sailing the boat yourself.

The beach, enhanced by the Beach Walk project, features amenities such as drinking fountains and shower nozzles. It’s the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate during your Clearwater trip! 

Bilheimer Capitol Theatre

The Nancy and David Billheimer Capitol Theatre is an iconic venue nestled in downtown Clearwater’s Cleveland Street District. Constructed in 1921, it’s a true Floridian gem with a rich history. In 2019, the theater underwent an impressive expansion, adding more seats, six private loge boxes, lobby spaces, an outdoor balcony with a view of Clearwater Causeway, a rooftop terrace, and a VIP lounge. The classic Hollywood charm is evident in the theatre due to its grand mezzanine and furnishings that transport you to the golden age of theaters. 

Originally a vaudeville and movie house, this venue witnessed legendary performances on its polished wood stage. Today, it stands as a perfect mix of historic allure and modern sophistication, making it a must-visit for entertainment lovers. 

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

CMA is a spectacular destination for marine enthusiasts where you can feel the rubbery back of a cownose stingray, embark on a virtual dive with enormous tiger sharks, and meet rescued sea creatures like sharks, otters, pelicans, and the beloved dolphins. You’ll also get the opportunity to enjoy unique experiences such as eco-boat tours and otter photos alongside CMA field scientists. 

During your visit to this Florida aquarium, make sure to stop by the dedicated Rescue Center, a working animal hospital focused on rescuing and rehabilitating marine life. Unlike traditional aquariums, CMA prioritizes the rescue of dolphins, sea turtles, and river otters, aiming to release them into their natural habitats. So, make sure to visit this interactive and must-see site in Clearwater.  

Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise

Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise is a must-visit in Clearwater, offering a fantastic experience for all. From family-friendly activities like face painting and treasure hunts to the thrill of water gun games, it’s a maritime adventure like no other. Complimentary sodas, beer, and wine served by lively pirate crew members add to the fun. With dolphins joining the excitement, Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise promises an unforgettable day at sea, making it a top tourist attraction in Clearwater. 

Sand Key Park

Sand Key Park is a sprawling 95-acre gem in Clearwater, featuring two distinct areas of beach and park. The white sandy beach boasts seasonal lifeguards and welcomes nesting sea turtles from April to October. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s trail and salt marsh, attracting diverse seabirds. From May to October, witness loggerhead sea turtles nesting and hatching. For dog lovers, an off-leash park adds to the attractions, complemented by the beautiful beach and picnic-friendly park

Overall, it’s a great way to spend the day exploring and discovering artificial reefs, water fountains, and playgrounds. 

Dolphin Watching Cruise

If you’re craving more marine wonders after the aquarium, one of the absolute highlights in Clearwater is observing pods of bottlenose dolphins gracefully breaking the surface in their natural habitat. Picture this – catamaran or tugboat tours allow you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. As you cruise along the Gulf of Mexico, you can choose from 1, 1.5, or 2 hour dolphin tours, with some tours even throwing in free ice cream on deck! 

Ruth Eckerd Hall

Ruth Eckerd Hall is located on the eastern side of Clearwater near Old Tampa Bay. It is a prominent performing arts venue which is famous for its live music events where big names have performed. Over the years, it has hosted performances by artists like Pink, Travis Tritt, and Jake Shimabukuro (to name a few). Many more big names are scheduled to perform here in the future. 

In addition to concerts, Ruth Eckerd Hall also hosts theatrical productions and dance performances, making it a versatile and lively hub for the arts.

Westfield Countryside Mall

Who says travelling and shopping don’t go hand in hand? The Westfield Countryside Mall is the largest shopping mall in the area and the perfect spot for shoppers to shop all that their hearts could want. The mall houses several stores from boutiques to big brand names providing buyers a huge variety. And once you are done shopping, skate around the on-site ice skating rink for some extra fun.

Florida Botanical Gardens

With its enchanting wedding garden, rare flora garden, and captivating floral pathways spread across more than 25 gardens and display areas, this 100-acre oasis of beauty stands as a true natural marvel. Besides being a great place to look at plants and explore the various flora, the Florida Botanical Gardens usually has one exhibition or the other going on.

For those with a serious passion for plants, private guided tours are on offer, allowing enthusiasts to explore the ever-changing floral wonders of the garden throughout the seasons. Among the must-visit spots are the Butterfly Garden, Tropical Fruit Garden, and Native Garden, not to mention the serene wetlands, walkway and overlook.

This tourist attraction welcomes visitors daily from 7 am to 5 pm, drawing in locals, tourists, and even some iconic wildlife, like the alligator! The best part is that the entry to this iconic location is free of cost.

Honeymoon Island State Park

Clearwater is famous for its stunning state parks, but Honeymoon Island stands out as the city’s most beloved spot. This is because it offers a refreshing escape from urban life. You can enjoy a variety of activities here that provide a break from the hustle and bustle such as a leisurely stroll along the Osprey Trail to see one of the few remaining South Florida virgin slash pine stands. This trail offers a 2.5-mile walk for visitors to enjoy. While at this beautiful tourist spot, you should also keep an eye out for armadillos, tortoises, raccoons, and owls that you might encounter along the way! You can also rent a kayak and go paddling or have a swim. 

Showtime Speedway

Whether you want to participate in a race yourself or enjoy watching people start their engines and race their hearts out, the Showtime Speedway is the perfect place. 

The main arena here can seat up to 4,000 people, and visitors can also bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the races. While you can’t bring food and drinks into this area for picnicking, you can park in the backstretch parking and use grills there. 

If you’re eager to race yourself rather than just watch, you can try racing with the Tampa Race Rentals available. After a safety briefing and some practice rounds, gear up with a helmet for the real competition! Zoom around the tracks, and winners from each round move on to the next, adding to the excitement and authenticity of the experience!

Congo River Golf

Located in downtown Clearwater, Congo River Golf is one of the best miniature golf courses you’ll come across. It is a multi-year award-winning miniature golf course with challenging holes. Along with enjoying mini golf, players can also feed live alligators. This charming mini golf course is a fantastic spot for family fun, especially after a long and tiring day at the beach.

Calypso Queen

Cruise the day away or evening away at the Calypso Queen which departs and docks from the Clearwater Beach Marina. The cruise is a great way to spend your time enjoying wine, beer or rum punch along with an all you can eat buffet and a great view of the sky blending with the water. 

You can enjoy these fun ocean parties for two hours during the day or at night. While cruising along the Clearwater coast, keep an eye out for friendly dolphins swimming nearby! Plus, the evening cruise comes with a DJ so that you can dance the night away and have lots of fun.

Beach Clubs

There are several beach clubs in Clearwater, each one different from the other in one way or another and ready to fulfill your needs.

If you’re vacationing with family, consider Carlouel Beach & Yacht Club as a top choice. It features a long white boardwalk leading right to the shoreline. Enjoy the day by its two pools, dine at the on-site restaurant and bar, play tennis on its courts, and engage in fun children’s activities.

Mandalay Beach Club offers a heated pool, spa, saunas, fitness center, and BBQ facilities for you to enjoy the whole thrilling experience.

For a beachfront dining experience, Shephard’s Tiki Beach Bar & Grill is a must-visit. Enjoy tasty cocktails, reggae music, and live performances at this location which is more of a beach restaurant than a beach club.

Pier 60 

Stretching an impressive 1,080 feet, Pier 60 isn’t just any fishing spot you will come across—it’s renowned worldwide for the once in a lifetime experience and beautiful sunsets it offers. At Pier 60, visitors will come across a fishing pier with pavilions, telescopes and a bait house with snacks to munch on. But, this tourist spot has more to offer so even if you do not want to reel in your dinner, you can visit this location for pelican watching or enjoying a picnic with your family. 

There are also a variety of street performers and plenty of restaurants close by, making it a vibrant spot for evening entertainment. Later in the day, visitors can wander along the Beach Walk promenade, specifically designed for pedestrians, skaters, and cyclists. The pier area offers various concessions and shopping opportunities nearby, along with outdoor activities like parasailing, aqua biking, jet skiing, and paddle boating adventures.

It’s no wonder that a visit to this lively pier, whether for fishing or simply taking in the sights, ranks among the top attractions in Clearwater.

Dinosaur World Florida

Get a chance to see your Jurassic Park fantasies come to life as you walk around and explore Dinosaur World Florida which is luckily under an hour’s drive from Clearwater. Here you will find over 200 life-sized dinosaurs including the Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus Rex making it an unforgettable adventure for everyone. Also, each dinosaur is positioned along the park’s pathways amidst tropical trees.

You can also try to crack open your own crystal geode at Geode Crack, unearth fossils at the Fossil Dig, explore skeleton replicas in the Boneyard, or visit the Florida Fossils Museum to marvel at real artifacts. Join a palaeontology-led Exploration Cave tour or test your dino-knowledge at the Triviasaurus Rex Game Show for added excitement! Whatever you decide to do here, you will surely have a great time.

Moccasin Lake Nature Park

The Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a testament of mother nature’s beauty and a great place to visit on your trip. It is a 51 acre nature preserve with ponds, trails, boardwalks and a variety of wildlife from gopher turtles to various birds. Some of the birds present here are in fact injured birds of prey and a unique find for many tourists. 

The entry to this beautiful location is free of cost. However, it is not open at all times and you will need to plan your itinerary in such a way that you can visit it during its regular timings. Currently, the park is open from Thursday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm, and on Sunday from noon to 4pm.

FlowRider

Clearwater offers plenty of surf opportunities, but if you’re new to surfing and want to practise before hitting the waves, indoor surfing is a great option! FlowRider, a well-known wave house brand now in Clearwater, uses modern technology to mimic real-time waves.

This artificial wave flows down a soft riding surface, making it ideal for beginners to learn without worrying about wipeouts. The winter season is perfect for surfing in Clearwater, but if you’re visiting in summer and craving more wave action, indoor surfing is a fun alternative to consider, and FlowRider is just the place for you.

BayCare Ballpark

BayCare Ballpark, constructed in 2004, stands as a stunning baseball stadium and doubles as the training hub for the Clearwater Threshers, a Minor League Baseball squad. Catching a game here is a steal, thanks to the affordable tickets and fantastic seating options. Simply hop onto the team’s website to snag tickets for upcoming matches and events.

Not only does BayCare Ballpark serve as the Threshers’ home turf, but it’s also been a training spot for the Philadelphia Phillies since 1947. While the Phillies primarily play elsewhere, this stadium acts as their base for Spring Training.

Moreover, the BayCare Ballpark is designed in such a way that it has a Floridian architectural style and a fun kids play area so that children do not get bored while their parents enjoy a game. The ballpark also features a 360-degree main concourse along with 7300 fixed seats and 1500 grass berm seating to accommodate as many people as possible. Visitors will also find a tiki-hut pavilion, party suites, and group picnic areas.

Foods To Try In Clearwater

The food and wine scene in Clearwater is spectacular and there’s something for everyone here. 

If you’re in the mood for delicious and healthy Vietnamese cuisine, Green Mint is the perfect choice. The atmosphere is vibrant and cozy, and they offer a diverse selection of tasty boba drinks. You can also enjoy steaming bowls of flavorful Pho, fresh lettuce wraps, and colourful salads here. One of their most popular dishes is the Green Mint Bun, which features vermicelli rice noodles, shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, cucumbers, lettuce, pickled carrots and daikons, fresh mint leaves, and crushed peanuts, all topped with a house sweet chilli sauce. It’s a mouthwatering and satisfying option for Vietnamese food enthusiasts!

A beloved spot among locals is the Clear Sky on Cleveland. It features a menu filled with creative bar food like avocado fries and PB&J Brussels sprouts. They also offer a diverse range of dishes from around the world, including schnitzel and ramen, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every craving!

For an amazing mouth watering brunch, visit the Wildflower Cafe which is open only for a short while. The cafe closes at 2:30 pm during weekdays and at 2 pm on Sundays. While the breakfast and brunch is just out of this world, Wildflower Cafe also serves delicious quiches and sandwiches. A dish that definitely stands out and is a must order here is the Wildflower Signature Crepe.

For some good old pizza, visit Cristino’s, where the authentic Italian experience comes to life. Here, you will find some piping hot coal-fired oven pizza along with some other famous Italian dishes such as pasta and ravioli. But if you are in the mood for a deep-dish pizza, then Paul’s the right place for you. Paul’s Stuffed Pizza is generously topped with sauce and loaded with cheese. While it may be a bit messy and runny, that doesn’t take away from its delicious flavour. If anything, it enhances the experience! And if anyone in your group is not up for a thick crust over-the-top pizza, they can have a super thin crust style pizza here which is equally delicious.

If you are in the mood for some all you can eat sushi, Saki is a great option with an amazing concept. Instead of the typical all-you-can-eat buffet where food can get cold and dishes may become stale, they offer an ‘endless’ dining experience. Here, you can order as many appetisers, sushi, entrees, or desserts as you like for a single price. Everything is freshly made to order, ensuring a delightful and satisfying dining experience.

Enjoy a Persian and Mediterranean buffet at Mirage. Various kinds of foods are served in the buffet including baba ganoush, dolmeh, hummus and beef kabobs.

The Tasty Thai Cafe is ideal when you’re craving gourmet Thai flavors without the expensive price tag. This family-owned cafe offers a light and inviting atmosphere, focusing on fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes that won’t break the bank and fulfill your cravings.

Manos Bakery Cafe is a European-style bakery with exceptional bakery items from Greek pastries to meat pies and danishes. There’s also some tasty cookies, and various types of breads available. All of the items available here are freshly baked. Besides bakery items, breakfast is also served here.

Looking for a great date idea or a fun outing with friends? Consider a wine tour at Aspirations Winery. During the one-hour tour, you’ll have the opportunity to taste five different wine varieties made right in their vineyards, and you’ll also get a quick tour of the fields. As you sip, enjoy food pairings like cheese, chocolate, fruit, or baguettes with seasoned dipping oils. Experiment with different pairings to discover which ones complement the wine flavors best. 

Scams To Avoid In Clearwater

The first and foremost scam to avoid before you even enter Clearwater is the rental scam, where people pretend to own a rental unit that they are willing to rent out online (usually on Craig’s list) for tourists. The tourists, not knowing that it is a scam, will not only book the rental unit but also pay in advance for their booking, only to come to Clearwater and visit the location to find out that either the rental unit does not exist or that someone is already living in it. Hence, to avoid this scam, you should book your rental unit or hotel room only from sites that can be trusted and, if possible, at a place where you know someone has stayed previously.

Another scam common in Florida is people taking advantage of innocent tourists and selling phoney tickets. Scammers often target eager visitors with enticing discounts or last-minute deals but when they reach the gates, they get disappointed. The best way to avoid this scam is to buy your tickets either directly on the spot or from the tourist attraction’s official website. 

Another thing to keep your eyes out for is pickpockets who will take advantage of you as you take in the beauty of the tourist attractions around you. Always stay vigilant regarding your belongings, and keep your precious items in your hotel room locked away in your bag.

Things To Do If You Are In Clearwater For One Day 

Get ready for a day in Clearwater that’ll recharge your spirit and give you the best of the US Atlantic coast! To kick things off, follow our fantastic itinerary – it’s a game-changer!

Start your day in the sun-soaked paradise of Clearwater Beach. With its vast stretch of fine white sand and inviting waters, it’s hard to resist. Grab a beach chair, umbrella, or even a cabana for a hassle-free and enjoyable beach experience. 

As tempting as it may be to stay at the beach, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a must-visit nearby attraction. It’s a place where dolphins, stingrays, and even Winter (the star of “Dolphin Tale”) call home. Trust us, it’s worth leaving your beach haven for.

When hunger strikes, hit up one of the stellar seafood joints by the beach – because good food is a must.

After your tummy is full, head over to our next stop: Moccasin Lake Nature Park. This expansive green space teems with wildlife, including turtles, peacocks, and even bald eagles. You can also explore numerous hiking trails, making it a fantastic, family-friendly spot for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

Cap off your day at the lively Pier 60 which is especially vibrant in the evening. With performers, lively environment, and an overall connected feeling, it gives off the perfect vacation vibes. And when its time for dinner, the Pier 60 also has several spectacular eateries. 

Things To Do If You Are In Clearwater For Three Days

Get ready for a three-day journey in Clearwater, where each sunrise unveils a brand-new adventure. Dive into the wonders of the sea, have a dance with dolphins, and take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful sandy shores! 

Day 1 

Start your first day in Clearwater by diving into the wonders of marine life at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Here, you can get up close with marine creatures, hop on a kayak or eco-boat for a fun tour, and discover the inspiring world of animal rescue efforts. 

As the day unfolds, head over to the Dolphin Watching Cruise to spot some cute dolphins while enjoying a fun sailing experience on a catamaran or tugboat tour. 

Follow this up with a visit to Sand Key Park. Take a leisurely stroll along the inviting white sandy beach, catch a glimpse of the captivating sea turtle nesting (if it’s the right season), and wander through the enchanting nature trail.

After a fun day of coastal adventures, it’s time to party! Clearwater is full of spectacular evening Beach Clubs like Carlouel Beach & Yacht Club or Mandalay Beach Club that are perfect for letting loose and relaxing, 

Day 2

For a perfect Florida experience, you have to enjoy a sunny morning at Clearwater Beach. It’s the perfect place to start your second day in Clearwater. Apart from relaxing and tanning at the beach, you can even hire a private boat or charter a yacht and explore the crystal-clear waters or opt for a variety of water sports available.

If shopping is your thing, you’ll love Westfield Countryside Mall. It’s a massive shopping hub with fantastic brands, offering not just shopping but also a chance to catch a movie at the Cobb Theater and enjoy some fun at the on-site ice-skating rink.

Once you’ve satisfied your shopping cravings, make your way to the Ruth Eckerd Hall. At this iconic performing arts venue, you can enjoy live music or catch a theatrical performance. After all, there s never a dull moment in Clearwater.

To cap off the day, swing by the FlowRider and experience indoor surfing. It’s a thrilling and enjoyable twist to traditional beach activities. 

Day 3

On our last day in Clearwater, let’s savor every moment. Begin your day at the vibrant Moccasin Lake Nature Park. Take a guided tour through the nature preserve, wander along oak-lined paths, and immerse yourself in fascinating educational experiences.

Then, cruise over to Pier 60 – a fishing paradise with its huge pier. Grab those stunning sunset views, do some laid-back pelican-watching, or just kick it with a relaxed picnic.

Now, one of our favorite things to do in Clearwater, FL, is to join a Wine Tour at Aspirations Winery. This tour treats you to tastings of five varieties paired with delectable food, and you get to take home two commemorative wine glasses.

And lastly, for the ultimate partying finale, head to Calypso Queen. Step aboard the renowned party boat for an all-you-can-eat buffet, bottomless drinks, and some ocean dancing.

Things To Do If You Are In Clearwater For Five Days

Get ready for five awesome days in Clearwater – where beach vibes, sea adventures, and stunning sunsets steal the show. Here’s the perfect five-day itinerary to make the most out of your trip and enjoy the laid-back charm and excitement this coastal gem has to offer. 

Day 1

Begin your Clearwater adventure by soaking up the sun at the picturesque beach, the Clearwater Beach. Dive into the refreshing turquoise waters, bask in the warmth of the sandy shores, or opt for a leisurely boat ride—it’s your call! 

After your beachside adventure, take a casual stroll to the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre. This place isn’t just a theater; it’s a glimpse into Hollywood’s golden days. You’ll get to enjoy vaudeville performances and historic movie screenings echoing through its classic halls.

Then, for lunch, treat your taste buds to a seafood feast at one of the beachside restaurants.

Next up is a visit to Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the ideal family outing. Here, you can get up close with marine life, learn about their rescue efforts, and witness the dedication to rehabilitation.

Finally, wrap up your evening at Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, a family-friendly maritime adventure that turns your night into a lively beach party.

Day 2

Day 2 in Clearwater kicks off with the chill vibes of Sand Key Park – think white sandy beaches blending seamlessly with lush greenery. It’s like stepping into a nature-filled oasis, perfect for an easy-breezy morning hangout.

After soaking in the serene scenes, hop aboard a Dolphin Watching Cruise for some thrilling moments with dolphin sightings. Dolphins in their natural playground is a must-see experience that’ll leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Now, let’s dial up the fun at Congo River Golf, where mini-golf meets adventure. Take on the challenging course, and don’t forget to say hi to the live alligators that make your trip even more exciting! 

Feeling the shopping bug? Westfield Countryside Mall is up next, ready to satisfy all your retail cravings. Explore the nooks and crannies of this shopping haven, and you might stumble upon some hidden gems.

As the sun starts to set, head over to Ruth Eckerd Hall. Here, you’ll be swept away by beautiful tunes and enjoy a wonderful, serene end to your night. 

Day 3 

Start your third day in Clearwater by exploring the nature trails of Honeymoon Island State Park – a sanctuary of greenery and refreshing outdoor vibes.

Then head for a spectacular T-Rex adventure to Dinosaur World Florida, where prehistoric wonders come to life.

After watching life-size dinosaurs, it’s time for Showtime Speedway, a wonderful place where high-octane racing steals the spotlight. After the adrenaline rush, ease into the evening at BayCare Ballpark, catching the local baseball scene and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere with the entire family.

Day 4

Kick things off with a private boat adventure or chartering a yacht. Then, embrace the tranquility of the Florida Botanical Gardens, where nature’s beauty will blow you away. 

After a little exploration, you can satisfy your taste buds with a Wine Tour at Aspirations Winery. Here, you’ll get to savor exquisite pairings and discover the flavors of local wines. 

Keep the party going by heading to one of Clearwater’s iconic evening beach parties at popular clubs like Carlouel Beach & Yacht Club! 

Day 5

Day 5 starts off nice and easy with a chill morning at Moccasin Lake Nature Park. You can join a guided tour and soak in some cool educational experiences surrounded by nature’s vibes. And hey, if you’re up for it, let’s spice things up with a bit of indoor surfing at FlowRider – because why not add a dash of thrill to your Clearwater adventure?

As the day winds down gracefully, head over to the famous Pier 60 for a kicking sunset experience. You’ll get to enjoy lively street performances and a laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect place to spend your last evening in Clearwater at. 

But wait, we’re not done just yet! For the ultimate grand finale, hop aboard the Calypso Queen. Feast on an all-you-can-eat buffet, sip on bottomless drinks, and let loose. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your Clearwater adventure with a bang.