Clearwater FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clearwater, Florida.
1. Clearwater Beach
PRISTINE WHITE SAND PARADISE
Clearwater Beach is a stunning stretch of soft, white sand that has been voted one of the best beaches in the United States. Visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports activities throughout the year. The beach offers a lively atmosphere with nearby restaurants, hotels, and amenities making it an ideal destination for families and couples alike.
2. Pier 60
SUNSET CELEBRATION SPOT
Pier 60 serves as the perfect location to witness breathtaking Gulf Coast sunsets and hosts a nightly sunset celebration featuring artisans and street performers. The 1,080-foot fishing pier allows visitors to cast a line for local fish or simply enjoy panoramic views of Clearwater Beach and the Gulf of Mexico. Families particularly enjoy the playground, covered pavilions, and the festive atmosphere that makes this pier much more than just a fishing spot.
3. Sand Key Park
TRANQUIL BEACH GETAWAY
Sand Key Park offers visitors a more serene beach experience compared to the bustling Clearwater Beach nearby. The park features not only beautiful white sand beaches but also nature trails, a dog park, and picnic areas with shelters and grills. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's salt marsh areas where they can spot various bird species and potentially witness sea turtle nesting during the appropriate season.
4. Clearwater Marine Aquarium
MARINE RESCUE AND EDUCATION
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a world-class facility dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine animals while educating visitors about ocean conservation. The aquarium houses dolphins, sea turtles, otters, sharks, stingrays, and other marine creatures that have been rescued and are receiving care. Visitors can enhance their experience by joining one of the naturalist-narrated cruises into Clearwater Bay offered by the aquarium.
5. Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise
FAMILY-FRIENDLY PIRATE ADVENTURE
Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise offers families an unforgettable adventure aboard a real-looking pirate ship sailing from Clearwater Marina. During the two-hour cruise, passengers can enjoy pirate-themed entertainment including face painting, treasure hunts, water gun games, and stories while taking in the scenic views of the Gulf Coast. Children and adults alike delight in the playful pirate crew who ensure everyone has a swashbuckling good time while watching for dolphins in the surrounding waters.
6. Yacht Starship Dinner Cruise
ELEGANT WATERFRONT DINING
The Yacht Starship Dinner Cruise provides guests with a sophisticated dining experience while sailing through the beautiful waters around Clearwater. Passengers can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs while taking in panoramic views of the coastline and possibly spotting dolphins. The elegant atmosphere makes this cruise perfect for romantic date nights, special celebrations, or anyone looking to combine fine dining with stunning sunset views over the water.
7. Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center
UP-CLOSE REPTILE ENCOUNTERS
The Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center offers visitors an opportunity to observe and learn about Florida's native reptiles and exotic species in an educational environment. Guests can get remarkably close to alligators, crocodiles, snakes, lizards, and various other animals while knowledgeable staff provide fascinating facts about each creature. The center focuses on rescue and conservation, making it both an entertaining and educational attraction for visitors of all ages.
8. Clearwater Downtown
WALKABLE CULTURAL HUB
Clearwater Downtown offers a charming, walkable district with waterfront parks, diverse dining options, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore local shops, enjoy the architecture, or attend events at one of the area's theaters or performance venues. The downtown area provides a pleasant contrast to beach activities, showing another dimension of this Florida coastal city.
9. Clearwater Marina
BOATING AND EXCURSION HUB
Clearwater Marina serves as the launching point for numerous water adventures including fishing charters, dolphin-watching tours, and recreational boat rentals. Visitors can stroll along the marina to view impressive vessels while deciding among the many available water excursions. The marina's central location makes it easily accessible from Clearwater Beach and downtown, providing convenient access to Gulf waters for tourists and locals alike.
10. Sunsets at Pier 60 Daily Festival
NIGHTLY ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
The Sunsets at Pier 60 Daily Festival is a beloved Clearwater tradition celebrating the magnificent Gulf sunsets with a nightly gathering of artists, craftspeople, and performers. Visitors can browse unique handcrafted items while street performers entertain crowds with amazing feats from magic to acrobatics. The festival begins two hours before sunset and continues two hours after, creating the perfect evening activity to cap off a day at the beach.
11. Clearwater Beach Marina
GATEWAY TO GULF ADVENTURES
Clearwater Beach Marina offers visitors access to numerous water activities including deep-sea fishing trips, dolphin-watching tours, jet ski rentals, and parasailing adventures. The bustling marina is home to Captain Memo's Pirate Ship, Encounters with Dolphins cruises, and many other popular boat excursions departing throughout the day. Visitors appreciate the central location right off Clearwater Beach, making it easy to transition from beach relaxation to exciting water adventures.
12. Moccasin Lake Nature Park
URBAN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Moccasin Lake Nature Park offers a 51-acre natural oasis in the heart of Clearwater featuring walking trails, boardwalks, and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can explore the nature center housing rescued birds of prey, reptiles, and educational exhibits about Florida's ecosystems. The park provides a peaceful retreat where nature enthusiasts can spot turtles, birds, butterflies, and native plants while enjoying the tranquil setting of ponds and woodland areas.
13. Ruth Eckerd Hall
PREMIER PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
Ruth Eckerd Hall stands as one of Florida's finest performing arts venues, hosting world-class concerts, Broadway shows, comedy acts, and cultural performances throughout the year. The acoustically superior 2,180-seat theater provides an intimate setting where every seat offers excellent views of the stage. Visitors appreciate the venue's elegant design, professional productions, and diverse calendar of events that bring top entertainment to the Clearwater area.
14. Clearwater Community Sailing Center
ACCESSIBLE NAUTICAL RECREATION
The Clearwater Community Sailing Center provides affordable access to sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the beautiful waters of Clearwater Harbor. Visitors can take lessons from certified instructors, rent equipment, or join group outings regardless of their experience level. The center's mission to make water sports accessible to everyone creates a welcoming environment for tourists and locals looking to experience Clearwater's waters from a different perspective.
15. Spectrum Field
SPRING TRAINING BASEBALL DESTINATION
Spectrum Field serves as the spring training home of the Philadelphia Phillies and regular-season home of the Clearwater Threshers, offering baseball fans an intimate setting to enjoy America's pastime. The modern 8,500-seat stadium features excellent sightlines, convenient amenities, and the chance to see major league players up close during February and March training sessions. Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, affordable tickets, and opportunity to experience professional baseball in a fan-friendly environment that's particularly appealing during Florida's beautiful spring months.