Everything you need to know about visiting Clearwater Beach, including how to get there, where to stay, and what to do.
Clearwater Beach was named the No. 1 beach in the United States in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice awards in 2018 and 2019, 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, flat-rate — get a quote for exact pricing (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: flat-rate — get a quote for exact pricing
- 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