Clearwater Beach

Gulf Coast, Florida

Families Sunsets Clear Water Kayaking Wildlife

Popular

Family Friendly

Metered street parking and paid lots ($2-3/hour, lots $20-30/day)

Clearwater Beach is a bustling, family-friendly beach known for families and sunsets.

Water

Crystal Clear

9/10

Crowds

High Crowds

2/10

Parking

$2-3/hour, lots $20-30/day

Good For

Families

Families Sunsets Clear Water

Consistently ranked America's #1 beach, Clearwater Beach offers pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the famous Pier 60 sunset celebration.

Clearwater Beach has earned its reputation as one of the world’s finest beach destinations. The sugar-white quartz sand stays cool even on the hottest days, and the calm Gulf waters are perfect for swimmers of all ages.

What Makes Clearwater Special

The beach stretches for 2.5 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, offering plenty of space even during busy seasons. The water clarity here is exceptional - you can often see your feet in waist-deep water. The gradual slope makes it ideal for children and less confident swimmers.

Pier 60 Experience

No visit is complete without experiencing Pier 60’s sunset celebration. Every evening, weather permitting, the pier comes alive with street performers, artisans, and musicians. It’s become a beloved tradition that draws visitors and locals alike.

Beyond the Beach

The walkable beach area includes Beach Walk, a winding promenade with restaurants, shops, and hotels. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the dolphin from Dolphin Tale, is just a short drive away.

Highlights

#1 rated beach in America

Pier 60 nightly sunset celebration

Crystal-clear Gulf waters

Wide stretch of white sand

Dolphin watching opportunities

Beach volleyball courts

Water Activities

Swimming Paddleboarding Jet skiing Parasailing Dolphin tours Kayaking

Local Tips

Arrive early on weekends to secure parking - lots fill by 10am
Pier 60 sunset celebration starts 2 hours before sunset with street performers and artisans
The north end of the beach is typically less crowded
Book dolphin tours in advance during peak season

The Verdict on Clearwater Beach

What We Love

Great for families with kids
Crystal-clear water
#1 rated beach in America
Pier 60 nightly sunset celebration
Crystal-clear Gulf waters

Worth Knowing

Can get very crowded on weekends and holidays
No pets allowed on the beach

Nearby Attractions

Clearwater Marine Aquarium (Winter the Dolphin)
Pier 60
Sand Key Park
Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise

Explore More

Traveling with kids? See our picks for the best family beaches in Florida.

Love crystal-clear water? Check out the clearest water beaches in Florida.

Chasing golden hour? Explore the best sunset beaches in Florida.

Not sure where to start? Read our guide on how to choose a Florida beach, or compare Gulf vs. Atlantic beaches.

Plan Your Trip

Where to Stay Near Clearwater Beach

Find the best hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts near Clearwater Beach. Whether you want a beachfront room or a budget-friendly option nearby, we can help you find the right fit.

Where to Stay