Clearwater Beach is a perfect getaway near Tampa, offering a variety of fun activities and great dining options for foodies. It’s also a hot spot for beachgoers and weekend travelers alike.
Everyone who has been supporting my blog site knows that Florida is one of my favorite beach destinations. However, this was my first visit to this part of Florida, and it took me by surprise. Why didn’t I come here sooner?
Before my visit, I learned that Clearwater Beach is renowned for its powdery white sand beaches, pristine aqua-blue waters, and vibrant beachside vibe and is said to be consistently ranked among America’s greatest beaches.
I can confirm that it’s all true. I honestly prefer its beaches to those in South Beach and Fort Lauderdale.
Whether you want to relax on the beach, discover fresh seafood restaurants, or enjoy a stunning sunset at Pier 60, this lovely coastal retreat provides the ideal balance of relaxation and water activities.
In this blog, I will walk you through my well-deserved trip to Clearwater Beach, from breathtaking views and fun activities to delicious eateries you do not want to miss!
Also, check out a few YouTube video clips I have put together at the end of the blog.
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Where is Clearwater Beach?
Clearwater Beach is a barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast, approximately 25 miles west of Tampa.
It spans along the Gulf of Mexico and is connected to the mainland city of Clearwater via the Clearwater Memorial Causeway.
The beach, located in Pinellas County, is known for its beautiful white sand and tranquil, mild waves. It is between the Intracoastal Waterway and the open gulf, providing stunning waterfront views on both sides.
Its accessible location makes it a popular day trip and holiday destination for both locals and visitors to the Tampa Bay area.
Fun Things To Do In Clearwater Beach Florida
1.
Pier 60
Clearwater beach
Pier 60 is centrally located in Clearwater Beach. It is more than just a landmark; it’s a cultural experience, a family destination, and a natural wonder all in one.
It offers everything travelers adore about the beach lifestyle: its laid-back appeal, friendly atmosphere, fun activities, breathtaking views, and unforgettable memories.
Pier 60 Clearwater Beach
The pier stretches over 1000 feet into the ocean and was once a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts. Unfortunately, the end section of the pier where fishing took place was observed to be closed off.
Locals shared that this part of the pier got damaged from the hurricanes that hit Florida over the last few years. However, the first half of the pier, as shown in the video at the end, allows visitors to stroll and to take in the beautiful panoramic views of the ocean.
You may be lucky to capture a few dolphins in the distance or the pelicans and laughing gulls gliding over the aqua-blue waters.
Be Careful of the Food Thieves!
As a side note, secure your food from the laughing gull birds. They are all over Clearwater Beach, watching and waiting for every opportunity to steal your food when you go for a swim or fall asleep.
White Sand Beach and Clear Water.
I was amazed at how powdery and white the sand was at Clearwater Beach. The first section of the beach has a life of its own.
The water is super crystal clear, and parents took advantage by letting their young children play in the shallow, clear water. I guess this is the reason why the beach is given the name “Clearwater.”
Entering the water at the beach was surprisingly very warm and calm. You can walk several feet out without getting submerged by water. However, if you are not a swimmer, please do not go out too far.
Parasailing and jet skiing appear to be the two most popular water sports activities in the area. If you want to experience an adrenaline rush, Clearwater Beach has you covered.
Beach Chair and Umbrella Rental
Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rental. It will cost $40 for the day. You can pay by credit card or a tap-and-go app. I left the beach before 5 pm, the cut-off time, and gifted the remaining 2 hours to a couple who I thought would benefit; they were very grateful.
Family Fun and Entertainment
Traveling with children? Pier 60 has lots to keep kids busy! Pier 60 Park, which is close to the pier, has a covered beachside playground with a waterslide that is ideal for cooling off in between sandcastle-building sessions.
During the warmer months, families may watch free outdoor movies beneath the stars on select weekends. What a great way to cap off a beach day!
Sunset Celebration
Some evenings, Pier 60 comes alive for the legendary Sunset Celebration, a weekly event featuring local artists, street performers, musicians, and craftspeople.
It is said that it’s one of the most wonderful moments one can have at Clearwater Beach.
From fire dancers and live concerts to handcrafted jewelry and coastal comical presentations, the atmosphere is brimming with creative energy.
And, of course, the sunsets are breathtaking, painting the sky with flaming orange and golden hues over the ocean.
Tijon Fragrance Lab is a Black-owned business located in the Hyde Park Village area of Tampa, Florida. If you are looking for a unique experience in Tampa, this is the place to be. Make your reservation and join the fun.
Tijon reminds me of my Organic Chemistry class, but a lot more fun. With hundreds of oils to choose from, you can create your unique fragrance or scent locked into a 2-ounce bottle.
The lovely Jamaican lady who conducted the class did an excellent job demonstrating and guiding the class through the step-by-step process for mixing our own signature scents using the oils provided to create three unique formulations.
What Is The Cost For The Tijon Lab Class?
For $100, you get to take home a 2-ounce bottle of one of three customized fragrances you created, as well as 2 free gifts of your choice.
Your formulation will be saved in their database, in case you want to order another bottle of your customized fragrance.
I highly recommend this place. The instructor was warm and welcoming. It was a fun experience. I was quite happy with the scent I developed; it smells so good. I get a lot of compliments whenever I wear it.
The Tropics Boat Tours boat excursion was about a 7 to 10-minute walk from my hotel.
A two-hour dolphin exploration cruise costs $31.99 per adult. However, children pay a lower rate. Fortunately, I received an email with a Groupon deal, allowing me to book this tour for only $20.
The company also provides a 2-hour Celebration Boat excursion, which allows customers to see the sunset on the Gulf in the evening.
The boat is double-decked. Riding on the second-level open-air top deck provided a better view of the ocean, well, at least in my opinion.
The boat departs from the harbor and makes its way through Clearwater Bay into the Gulf waters. Sailing on the Gulf waters, gazing out onto Clearwater Beach, provided a new perspective and visuals of the area. I capture some of these on video; see the video presentation at the end of the blog.
It was a perfect day for the boat tour. Warm and sunny weather was the order of the day. However, the Gulf’s sea breeze provided some relief from the heat.
The shaded area on the top deck provided some protection from the sun’s rays. Make sure you research the weather before booking the tour.
Our tour guide gave a wonderful tour of the area and included interesting facts about dolphins and their habitat.
There were a few dolphin actions throughout the tour, but nothing that wows the crowd. Some of the guests on the lower deck appeared to be having more fun drinking at the bar than anything else.
Overall, it was a very relaxing and educational tour. This tour is perfect for children or anyone who loves marine life or nature.
If you enjoy exploring nature, this is the excursion for you. I was looking forward to traveling to Egmont Key Island via ferry. Unfortunately, it was not possible on this trip.
However, I would like to share a few things with my readers so that they may plan their vacation if they decide to embark on this excursion in Tampa Bay.
From my understanding, the ferry leaves Fort De Soto Park for Egmont Key. It is a protected area; therefore, littering and other activities that threaten the wildlife in the area are prohibited.
The tour lasts roughly 5 hours and includes 2 to 3 hours of fun beach activities and explorations of the historic landmarks.
If you decide to visit Clearwater Beach and book this tour, keep in mind that the drive from Clearwater to the harbor takes 45 minutes.
For more information, see the link below. Save this blog for future reference.
St Pete Pier is definitely my favorite place I have visited in Tampa. It is a picturesque waterfront attraction in the downtown St. Petersburg area.
There are so many activities in the area. Foodies will enjoy the number of restaurants and bars in the area.
The marina across from the pier, houses boat tours that you can book for a Dolphin watching tour.
St Petersburg offers a variety of attractions, including the St Pete Museum of History on the pier and a cinema theater within walking distance of the pier.
The pier’s greenery and family playgrounds make it appealing to families. It’s an ideal location for family picnics and playdates.
St. Pete Pier Restaurants for Foodies.
There are a number of restaurants and bars on the pier. Teak on the 4th floor serves mainly a seafood-inspired menu.
Pier Teaki, a rooftop bar on the 5th floor, is a great place to relax and enjoy a few drinks with friends. These are my two favorite foodie spots that I have visited.
The cool sea breeze creates the most relaxing atmosphere. It’s an experience to drink and dine while looking out at the bay from nearly every angle.
The cocktails and drinks were refreshingly on point. If you go, try the cassava cheese balls and chicken wings as appetizers. You’re going to thank me later.
I had no idea sunset watching was a thing until I visited Clearwater Beach.
Hundreds of people flock to the beach in the late afternoon to take in the beautiful sunset that gets swallowed by the ocean’s horizon.
Make sure you bring your camera or phone to capture these breathtaking visuals.
All of the photographs and videos in this blog, including these stunning sunsets, were captured by my Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
There is no other cellphone on the market that can be compared to the Samsung that can produce the level of excellent picture quality and sharpness.
To learn more about this phone, visit HERE.
Restaurants in Clearwater Beach & Tampa, Florida.
Clearwater Beach is not only known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear gulf water, but there are also many eateries for foodies.
Whether you are looking for fresh seafood, tropical drinks by the beach, or casual eats with live music and sunset views, Clearwater Beach has a vibrant scene that combines laid-back beach vibes with memorable cuisine.
From legendary beachfront grills to cozy cafés and fancy seafood restaurants, there’s something for everyone’s taste and budget.
If you are visiting on a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo foodie adventure, the local restaurants will transport you to the heart of coastal Florida culture, where every meal seems like a celebration.
Get ready to eat well, sip slowly, and soak in the sights and tastes of Clearwater paradise.
Despite the gloomy and rainy day, the restaurant was almost full to capacity. Due to the rainy weather, beachside dining was unfortunately not an option.
Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill appears to be a popular spot in Clearwater Beach. Therefore, I recommend that you arrive extra early if you want to dine on the beach. I can only imagine the beautiful sunset while having dinner in the late evening.
The ambiance is warm and welcoming with an airy, beachy vibe. If you just want to have drinks, the bar area is perfect for trying out some of their signature drinks, such as “Not Your Father’s Mule” or “Summer Smash.”
Menu at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
The menu leans strongly into Floribbean seafood classics such as their famous grouper sandwiches, fish tacos, scallops, “Frenchy’s She Crab Soup,” and seafood pot pie. However, I ordered their Jerk Chicken Sandwich with French Fries.
Even though the burger did not make the mark of authentic jerk flavors, it was still enjoyable. I must add that the prices were fairly reasonable.
Directly across from Pier 60 is Crabby’s Dockside Restaurant, which offers both indoor and outdoor dining with live music between 5 pm and 8 pm in the outdoor dining area.
My desire was to sit upstairs facing Pier 60 and enjoy the seaside views and sunset, but the wait was too long. So I settled on eating outside.
I enjoyed the local artist, who performed a few songs I had never heard before. Nonetheless, it was a pleasant evening; the temperature was warm but not humid.
What’s the menu like at Crabby’s Dockside Clearwater?
Crabby’s, as the name suggests, serves exclusively seafood. If you are a lover of seafood, you will probably enjoy the menu here. I ordered their Island Mahi Mahi fish topped with a mango salsa.
I chose coconut rice and salad with vinaigrette as the side dishes. The Food Explora in me could not resist trying the Berry Mojito and Key Lime Pie.
Crabby’s Dockside Clearwater Meal Review
The meal was ok, although there were pros and cons. First and foremost, I did not like the small portion.
This is my personal bias, but the fish lacked a lot of flavor. I am accustomed to highly seasoned fish. However, despite the fact that the menu stated that the Mahi Mahi would be seasoned with Cajun seasoning, it tasted unseasoned. Fortunately, the mango salsa added a bit of flavor.
The Berry Mojito took the cake. It was the worst-tasting mojito I have ever tried; it was like sipping on berry-flavored sparkling water.
The waiter offered to get another one made, but I politely declined.
The vinaigrette for the salad was very good. Even though the portion was stingy, the coconut rice was bursting with coconut essence.
I do not indulge in this often, but the Key Lime Pie was creamy, sweet, and had the right amount of tangy lime flavor.
Crabby’s Bar and Grill
On my way from spending a few hours at the beach, I stumbled upon Crabby’s Bar and Grill, located directly across from Clearwater Beach.
The eatery had a bar seating area at the entrance as well as what appeared to be second-floor dining with views of the ocean.
I assume this is one of the sister restaurants of the Crabby’s franchise, so if you are in the area, it won’t hurt to pay a visit.
Despite the few cons, I still recommend Crabby’s Dockside because of the location, the ambiance, and the great service provided by the waiter.
Coco’s Crush Bar and Grill is located right next to the hotel where I stayed. I was drawn to this restaurant because of the live musical performance I heard every time I stepped outside my hotel.
The restaurant offers only outdoor dining. The ambiance with the umbrellas, palm trees, and the vibrant colors of the open-air dining area all give a beachy, laid-back feel. The live music adds to the festive atmosphere.
Coco’s Crush Beach Bar is the ideal stop for lunch or a post-beach lunch stop to enjoy a few drinks and grab a bite.
I ordered their Chicken Quesadilla, but did not like the texture and flavor. Therefore, it was exchanged for a Beef Burger.
Their “Crush Coctails,” I was told, are a popular item on the menu, but instead I tried one of their flavored beers.
Maru Rooftop Nikkei is a high-end rooftop bar lounge located on the 7th floor of Bayshore Garden in Tampa. One of the best features of the lounge is the beautiful panoramic views of Tampa Bay and Bayshore Boulevard.
Maru offers both indoor and open-air seating. The ambiance, for sure, is stylish, sophisticated, and trendy. If you are planning on dining here, you may want to make a reservation to avoid waiting for a long period.
Their menu is limited to small plate items such as ceviche and caviar. However, Maru is perfect for date night, hanging with friends by the bar, having cocktails while watching the sunset, socializing, and meeting new friends.
After a few drinks and wanting to indulge in some real food, you can head over to the Barcelona Wine Bar or Counter Culture. Both of these restaurants are just within 2 minutes of Maru.
When you walk into WingHouse, you will think you are at Hooters based on how the “Winghouse Girls” waitresses were skimpily dressed.
As a side note, there are a number of Hooters Restaurants here in Clearwater Beach. In fact, there is one within a few minutes walk from the hotel where I stayed.
Winghouse is a sports-bar-style restaurant and grill. The atmosphere is casual. It’s the ideal place for sports fans to hang out with friends and enjoy a few drinks and a good bite.
TV screens are conveniently located around the bar and dining area. I went during off-peak hours, and it was quiet. However, I can only imagine the high energy of the bar during football and basketball season.
What Is The WingHouse Menu Like?
The name suggests that the menu would be similar to Buffalo Wild Wings Restaurant. I rarely go online to check the menu of restaurants before visiting because I like to eat out spontaneously.
Winghouse surprisingly offers a fairly diverse menu. I tried their BBQ and sweet chili-flavored chicken wings. They were so good, I ordered enough to take with me. The burger sliders with curly fries were perfection. They were well-seasoned, and the pickles they used added a unique flavor and texture.
WingHouse is a must-visit when you are in Clearwater Beach if you like sports bar vibes, hanging with friends, or just grabbing a quick lunch.
EXPEDIA is a global leader in online travel booking. For many years, Expedia has been my go-to travel agent for all my travel needs. The group has you covered for everything from resorts to hotels, car rentals, and excursions.
Through my partnership with Expedia, you will find some excellent bargains for your family trip or baecation. Explore their bundle deals by visiting HERE.
Why should I choose the Marriott?
The Resident Inn by Marriott in Clearwater Beach was booked through Expedia. It is a very family-friendly resort. Although it’s not a beachfront property, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the bayfront and take advantage of the sunrise and sunset.
Easy Walk to Beach and Restaurants
The hotel is conveniently located within a 2- to 3-minute walk from the beach and Pier 60, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes.
If you’re a coffee lover, Starbucks is conveniently located right next to the hotel. To save you a few dollars, the Marriott serves coffee at breakfast.
Full Kitchen and Balcony
I chose one of their suites, which included a full kitchen, sofa bed, and balcony facing the marina. The stunning sunsets are worth getting a room with a balcony.
There are grocery stores nearby (one directly across the street from the hotel). The kitchen in my room was equipped with cooking utensils. Therefore, I could have cooked some of my meals.
Free Continental Breakfast
Free continental breakfast was provided. I am not a great fan of continental breakfast, but it spared many of the guests from going out to eat breakfast, which can be costly, especially if there are many mouths to feed.
I can honestly say that the hotel did an excellent job of providing a diverse range of meal options, including a vegan dish.
The lobby houses the dining area next to the bar. In the evening, guests can enjoy a few cocktails and a meal from the hotel’s restaurant.
No Free Street Parking Available in Clearwater Beach or Tampa
If you rent or drive a car, you will have to pay for parking. The Marriott has valet parking for $38 per day, plus taxes and tips. Street parking costs roughly $3 per hour. Don’t want to drive? The cost of taking a UBER taxi is significantly cheaper in Clearwater/Tampa than in New York City.
I usually recommend beachgoers to cover their feet with these Beach Shoes I ordered on Amazon. They provide foot protection while also being lightweight. and comfortable.
More importantly, please apply sunscreen on your face and body. I learned the hard way and got burned on my face. I recommend the Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 70 lotion and Keihl’s SPF 30 sun protection face cream.
A waterproof and sandproof Beach Blanket and polarized UV400 protection Sunglasses are essential on a beach day.
Hydration is key when you spend a long time on the beach. Make sure you carry a thermal water bottle like this 64-ounce stainless steel thermal water bottle from Amazon.
To protect your phone while in the water and to make sure you capture memorable moments, you must get this waterproof phone pouch like this one HERE.
The nearest airport to Clearwater Beach is St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), located only 7-10 miles away. It is said to be approximately a 15-20 minute trip, depending on traffic.
For travelers seeking more airline alternatives, Tampa International Airport (TPA) is around 18-20 miles away, usually a 30-45 minute drive to Clearwater Beach.
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Video Clips: Clearwater Beach and Tampa
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Clearwater looks amazing! Nice to know you have the same problems with gulls as we do in Ireland :)
Elizabeth, the gulls are cool, but they can be a nuisance. Thank you for reading my blog.
I was at clear water many years ago with my parents absolutely beautiful. And very different from here in scotland thanks for the guide
I agree, Eileen. Clearwater Beach is most definitely beautiful. I hope you get to revisit Florida soon. Thank you for visiting.
Really informative post Kevin! I enjoyed it, especially the parts about the places to eat nice food! I’m a big foodie myself! My family thinks I’m a big eater actually! Lol. But I don’t think so. A lot of times I don’t finish the food I’m given in restaurants! I often ask to take the rest with me! Thankyou for this fun post! Perfect timing, as it’s summer right now! I don’t really go to the beach, but this post makes me want to!
I am happy you found my blog helpful and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I hope you get to go to the beach soon.
Very helpful! I’m bookmarking this post for when I visit Tampa, thanks!
Thank you for visiting, Lainey. I am happy my Clearwater Beach travel guide was helpful.
Wow, great informative post! I’d love to explore Clearwater, Florida. Looks amazing! And the restaurants look sublime too! Thanks for sharing your guide!
You are welcome, Lauren. Glad you found my Clearwater Beach guide helpful.
Such a fun and detailed guide! I might not get to visit, but I enjoyed discovering Clearwater Beach through your photos and tips. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill sounds like a must-try, again thanks for the virtual tour
JM…. happy you found value in my Clearwater Beach post. Thanks for visiting.
Clearwater and Clearwater Beach are fabulous! I love it when I visit. Thanks for sharing all this information. I have been there a number of times and missed a few of these spots. Need to check them out next time.
Thanks for visiting, Mary Ann. Clearwater Beach is a great beach weekend get away. Also love it there.