Introduction
Looking for fun things to do in Clearwater? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of the top activities and attractions that Clearwater has to offer. From relaxing on the beach to exploring local wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful coastal city.
- Experience the Thrill of Jet Skiing in Clearwater Beach
Are you looking for a fun and adventurous activity to do while in Clearwater Beach? Look no further than Jet Ski rentals! With crystal clear waters and plenty of open space to ride, Clearwater Beach is the perfect place to experience the thrill of jet skiing.
Jet ski rentals in Clearwater Beach are easy to find and offer a variety of rental options. You can choose from guided tours, rentals by the hour, or even full-day rentals. No matter your level of experience, there is a rental option that will fit your needs
- Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to Winter the dolphin, the star of the hit movie Dolphin Tale. In addition to Winter, visitors can see a variety of marine animals including sharks, sea turtles, and otters. The aquarium also offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
- Take a Dolphin-Watching Cruise
Take a dolphin-watching cruise and experience these friendly and intelligent creatures up close. Watch as they play and swim alongside the boat in their natural habitat. Many of the cruises also offer sunset and dinner cruises, making for a perfect evening out.
- Hit the Beach
Clearwater Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. With its sugar-white sand and crystal-clear water, it’s no wonder that Clearwater Beach has been named the best beach in America by TripAdvisor. Soak up the sun, take a swim in the warm Gulf of Mexico waters, or rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline.
- Explore Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi Island State Park is a pristine and undeveloped island just a short ferry ride from Clearwater Beach. Enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the island’s beaches, hiking trails, and mangrove forests. The park is also a popular spot for bird watching and fishing.
- Visit the Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival
Every night, the Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival takes place on Clearwater Beach. Enjoy live music, street performers, and local artisans selling their wares as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico. The festival is free and open to the public.
- Discover the Clearwater Beach Marina
The Clearwater Beach Marina is a hub of activity for boaters and water sports enthusiasts. Rent a boat or jet ski and explore the Gulf of Mexico, or take a fishing charter and try your luck at catching grouper, snapper, or even a sailfish. The marina also offers dolphin-watching tours, sunset cruises, and paddleboard rentals.
- Visit the Clearwater Beach Jetty
The Clearwater Beach Jetty is a popular spot for fishing and watching the boats pass by. The jetty offers panoramic views of the coastline, as well as a chance to see local wildlife like dolphins and pelicans. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day at this scenic location.
- Take a Segway Tour
See the sights of Clearwater in a unique way by taking a Segway tour. Glide along the beach, through local parks, and past historic landmarks on this fun and informative tour. The tours are suitable for all ages and experience levels.
- Explore the Clearwater Beach Walk
The Clearwater Beach Walk is a scenic promenade that connects Clearwater Beach to the mainland. Stroll along the walkway and enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, as well as access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The walkway also features interactive art installations and sculptures.
- Visit the Sand Key Park
Sand Key Park is a beautiful beach park located just south of Clearwater Beach. The park features a wide, sandy beach, as well as picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails. The park is also a popular spot for watching sea turtles and other marine wildlife.
- Take a Sunset Sail
Experience the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico at sunset on a sailboat. Take a private charter or join a group tour and watch as the sky turns from blue to pink to orange. Enjoy a glass of champagne and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the water at dusk.
- Explore the Moccasin Lake Nature Park
The Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a hidden gem in Clearwater. The park features hiking trails through natural Florida habitats, as well as a wildlife rehabilitation center and a butterfly garden. Visitors can see native animals like alligators, snakes, and owls up close.
- Visit the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
The Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks are a historic landmark and a unique attraction in the Clearwater area. The docks are home to Greek sponge divers, who harvest natural sponges from the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can take a boat tour, watch sponge diving demonstrations, and enjoy traditional Greek cuisine.
- Go on a Brewery Tour
Clearwater has a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries located in the area. Take a brewery tour and sample local beers, learn about the brewing process, and meet the brewers behind the beer. Some breweries also offer food trucks and live music on weekends.
- Attend a Festival or Event
Clearwater is home to several annual festivals and events that celebrate the local culture and community. From the Clearwater Jazz Holiday to the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival, there’s always something happening in Clearwater. Check the local events calendar to plan your visit around one of these exciting events.
- Experience the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals. Visitors can see animals like sea turtles, dolphins, and otters up close, and learn about their journey to recovery. The aquarium is also home to Winter the Dolphin, the star of the hit movie Dolphin Tale.
- Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour
Clearwater is known for its abundance of dolphins, and there’s no better way to see them than on a dolphin-watching tour. Board a boat and cruise the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, keeping an eye out for playful dolphins swimming alongside the boat.
- Visit the Clearwater Library
The Clearwater Library is a beautiful and historic building located in downtown Clearwater. The library offers a vast collection of books and multimedia resources, as well as programs and events for all ages. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning architecture of the building, which was originally built in 1915.
- Explore the Ruth Eckerd Hall
The Ruth Eckerd Hall is a premier performing arts venue located in Clearwater. The hall hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year, featuring both national and local talent. Check the schedule and book tickets for a memorable evening of entertainment.
- Go on a Kayaking Tour
Experience the beauty of Clearwater’s waterways on a kayaking tour. Paddle through mangrove forests, past stunning wildlife, and along the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Tours are available for all experience levels, from beginners to advanced paddlers.
- Visit the Florida Botanical Gardens
The Florida Botanical Gardens is a beautiful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Clearwater. The gardens feature a variety of native Florida plants, as well as a butterfly garden and a tropical fruit garden. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens, or take a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna.
- Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Get a bird’s eye view of Clearwater from a hot air balloon. Float high above the city and enjoy stunning views of the coastline, the Gulf of Mexico, and the surrounding countryside. Hot air balloon rides are available year-round, weather permitting.
- Visit the Dunedin Historical Museum
The Dunedin Historical Museum is a must-visit destination for history buffs. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the rich history of the Clearwater area, including Native American culture, early settlers, and the growth of the city.
- Go on a Snorkeling Tour
Explore the underwater world of Clearwater on a snorkeling tour. Swim among colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life, and discover the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico from a different perspective. Tours are available for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Take a Day Trip to St. Petersburg
Just a short drive from Clearwater is the vibrant city of St. Petersburg. Spend a day exploring the museums, galleries, and shops of this bustling city, or enjoy a stroll along the scenic waterfront. Don’t miss the chance to visit the stunning Salvador Dali Museum, which features the largest collection of Dali’s works outside of Spain.
- Discover the World of Speed at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum
Located just a short drive from Clearwater, the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts. The museum features an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars, showcasing the evolution of automotive design and technology over the years.
- Take a Sunset Sail
There’s no better way to enjoy the stunning sunsets of Clearwater than on a sunset sail. Board a sailboat and set off into the Gulf of Mexico, watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink as the sun sets over the horizon. It’s a magical experience you won’t soon forget.
- Explore the Brooker Creek Preserve
The Brooker Creek Preserve is an 8,700-acre wilderness area located just a short drive from Clearwater. The preserve features a variety of ecosystems, including pine forests, wetlands, and hardwood hammocks. Visitors can hike through the trails, go birdwatching, or take a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna.
- Visit the Clearwater Farmers Market
The Clearwater Farmers Market is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine of Clearwater. The market features a variety of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local specialties. Visitors can sample delicious treats and shop for unique souvenirs to take home.
- Take a Fishing Charter
Clearwater is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts, with a variety of fish species found in the local waters. Take a fishing charter and experience the thrill of reeling in a big catch, whether it’s a grouper, snapper, or even a shark. Charters are available for all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned anglers.
- Relax at the Sand Key Park
Sand Key Park is a beautiful and tranquil beach located just south of Clearwater Beach. The park features a wide expanse of white sand, clear blue waters, and plenty of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic areas. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.
- Visit the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
The Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks is a historic and cultural district located just a short drive from Clearwater. The docks were once a hub for the sponge industry, and today they offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich Greek heritage. Explore the shops, restaurants, and museums, or take a boat tour to learn more about the history of sponge diving.
- Go on a Scenic Drive on the Gulf Boulevard
The Gulf Boulevard is a scenic coastal road that runs from Clearwater Beach to St. Pete Beach, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico along the way. Take a leisurely drive, stopping to admire the views and explore the charming beach towns along the route.
- Take a Segway Tour
Experience the beauty of Clearwater on a Segway tour. Glide through the streets and parks, taking in the sights and sounds of the city in a unique and fun way. Tours are available for all experience levels, from beginners to advanced.
- Visit the Safety Harbor Spa
The Safety Harbor Spa is a luxurious resort and spa located just a short drive from Clearwater. The spa offers a variety of treatments and services, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy, as well as fitness classes and healthy dining options. It’s the perfect place to unwind and pamper yourself.
- Enjoy a Day Trip to Busch Gardens
Located just over an hour’s drive from Clearwater, Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay is a world-class theme park that offers thrilling rides, exotic animals, and live shows. Get up close and personal with tigers, giraffes, and other animals in the park’s African-inspired habitats, or ride some of the most heart-pumping roller coasters in the country.
- Watch a Movie at the Historic Capitol Theatre
The Capitol Theatre is a beautifully restored historic theater located in downtown Clearwater. Built-in 1921, the theater has hosted a variety of events over the years, including movies, live performances, and even a presidential speech by Franklin D. Roosevelt. Today, the theater continues to delight visitors with its stunning architecture and diverse programming.
- Learn About Marine Life at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating marine animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, and otters. Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility, learn about the animals and their conservation, and even get up close and personal with some of the animals in interactive exhibits.
- Explore the Florida Botanical Gardens
The Florida Botanical Gardens is a beautiful oasis located in Largo, just a short drive from Clearwater. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers native to Florida, as well as themed gardens, walking trails, and a butterfly garden. It’s a great place to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the state.
- Take a Brewery Tour
Clearwater is home to a variety of craft breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences. Take a brewery tour and learn about the brewing process, sample different beers, and even take home a growler or two. Some of the most popular breweries in Clearwater include 3 Daughters Brewing, Big Storm Brewing Co., and Pair O’ Dice Brewing.
- Discover the History of Clearwater at the Heritage Village
The Heritage Village is a living history museum located in Largo that showcases the history of Pinellas County. The village features over 30 historic structures, including a schoolhouse, a church, and a general store, that have been restored to their original condition. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or participate in guided tours and demonstrations.
- Go on a Dolphin-Watching Tour
Clearwater is home to a large population of bottlenose dolphins, and there’s no better way to see them up close than on a dolphin-watching tour. Board a boat and set off into the Gulf of Mexico, watching for playful dolphins swimming and jumping in the waves. Tours are available year-round and offer a unique and unforgettable experience.
- Try Your Luck at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
If you’re feeling lucky, head to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa Bay. The casino offers a variety of games, including slots, poker, and blackjack, as well as live entertainment and dining options. It’s a fun and exciting way to spend an evening out in Clearwater.
- Take a Hike at the Moccasin Lake Nature Park
The Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a 51-acre park located in Clearwater that features a variety of habitats, including a cypress swamp, a hardwood hammock, and a lake. Visitors can hike through the trails, go bird-watching, or participate in educational programs and events.
In Conclusion
Clearwater is a destination that offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re seeking thrills on roller coasters or peaceful moments on the beach, you’ll find it in this vibrant and welcoming city. With its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and unique attractions, Clearwater is a must