Consistently ranked among the best beaches not only in Florida, but in the U.S., and even the world, Clearwater Beach provides the perfect blend of family-friendly fun with lively nightlife. Imagine picture-perfect white quartz sand, emerald waters, and a casual vibe just a short drive from the urban atmosphere of Tampa or St. Petersburg.
Linked to the mainland by the Clearwater Memorial Causeway, Clearwater Beach rests on a barrier island in Pinellas County just off Florida’s Gulf Coast. Additionally, a short bridge to the south connects it to Sand Key. With numerous public access points along the beach, year-round lifeguards, and a very walkable beach walk, Clearwater Beach is an ideal vacation spot for groups of all sizes.
People come to Clearwater Beach for the soft sand and calm, shallow water that suits kids and swimmers alike. In 2025, Travel + Leisure ranked this premier beach destination as home to one of the 15 best white sand beaches in the world! In the spirit of accolades, each evening, the Sunset Celebration at Pier 60 brings out street performers, live music, and local artisans.
From paddleboarding across the calm water to scenic dinner cruises departing from the Marina, and from jetskis to golf times on the Clearwater mainland, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Dolphin cruises leave the marina all day. At Clearwater Marine Aquarium, once home to Winter the dolphin from Dolphin Tale, families can see rescued sea turtles and dolphins up close.
On the water, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or take a jet ski for a spin. For a slower pace, spend the day at 95-acre Sand Key Park. Little ones love Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise, while thrill seekers go parasailing or book a fishing charter.
For getting around Clearwater Beach, hop on the Jolley Trolley, which started carrying riders up and down the beach in 1982. In 2008, the Beach Walk opened a wide, curving promenade south of Pier 60, and by 2019, TripAdvisor named Clearwater Beach the best beach in the United States. Clearwater Beach continues to consistently gain recognition on top state, national, and international levels.
Sink your toes into one of the country’s most pristine beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Whether looking for awe from sea turtle nesting throughout the summer, taking in the annual Sugar Sand Festival in spring, or simply picking a night on Pier 60 to join the sunset festivities, Clearwater Beach awaits.
