Clearwater Beach is consistently voted the #1 beach in the United States by TripAdvisor, and it's easy to see why. This barrier island beach community offers extraordinary Gulf of Mexico waters, white sand, spectacular sunsets, and a lively waterfront scene that makes it one of Florida's premier destinations.
Getting to Clearwater Beach
From Tampa (TPA) Airport
TPA is the most convenient airport for Clearwater Beach, approximately 25-30 miles away.
- Private car service: 35-45 minutes, from $55 flat-rate — recommended
- Rental car: ~30-40 minutes, plus parking challenges at the beach
- Rideshare: Available but can surge to $70+ during peak hours
From Orlando (MCO) Airport
MCO is 110 miles from Clearwater Beach, approximately 100-120 minutes.
- Private car service: From $115 flat-rate
- Rental car: $40-80/day rental + gas + $25-40 daily parking at beach
Parking at Clearwater Beach
Parking is one of Clearwater Beach's biggest challenges. Key facts:
- Pier 60 Parking Garage: $3/hour, $24/day max — fills early on weekends
- South Gulfview Blvd: Metered parking, fills very quickly
- North Beach: More relaxed but still limited
- Pro tip: A private transfer saves $24/day in parking + the stress of finding a spot
Best Things to Do at Clearwater Beach
- Pier 60: The 1,080-foot fishing pier and nightly Sunsets at Pier 60 festival
- Dolphin-watching cruises: Several operators launch from Clearwater Marina
- Parasailing: Multiple operators offering Gulf views from above
- Caladesi Island: Ferry to one of Florida's most pristine islands
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Home of Winter the Dolphin from the Dolphin Tale movies
- Beach volleyball: Courts throughout the beach area
Best Restaurants at Clearwater Beach
- Frenchy's Rockaway Grill — Legendary beachfront seafood institution
- Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill — Great views, solid seafood
- Cooters Restaurant & Bar — Fresh seafood with dockside atmosphere
- Island Way Grill — Upscale seafood with waterway views
- Shephard's Waterfront Restaurant — Entertainment complex with live music
Best Clearwater Beach Hotels
- Sandpearl Resort — Luxury beachfront resort
- Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach — Full-service resort with multiple pools
- Opal Sands Resort — Modern luxury on the Gulf
- Hilton Clearwater Beach — Mid-range with excellent location