Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, Fla., is one of the most well-known beach destinations on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The area is known for its soft white sand, calm waters, and walkable streets filled with local businesses. Beyond its beaches, Clearwater Beach has plenty of activities that allow visitors and locals to enjoy the outdoors, explore local culture, and relax by the water.
This guide highlights some of the best things to do in Clearwater Beach. Each activity offers something distinct, making it easy to plan your visit or enjoy a day out in this Gulf Coast community.
Visit Pier 60
Pier 60 is one of the most popular landmarks in Clearwater Beach. The long fishing pier extends into the Gulf of Mexico, providing a great spot for fishing, sunset viewing, and people-watching. The pier has benches and shaded areas, making it a comfortable place to relax even during the day. Each evening, Pier 60 hosts the Sunset Celebration, featuring street performers, craft vendors, and local musicians. The surrounding park area also offers playgrounds, picnic spots, and beach volleyball courts.
Explore Clearwater Beach Marina
Clearwater Beach Municipal Marina is a busy waterfront area that is the starting point for many boating adventures. Visitors can book fishing charters, dolphin-watching tours, or scenic cruises directly from the marina. The marina also has rental options for jet skis, paddleboards, and other watercraft. The area around the marina includes casual seafood restaurants, small shops, and docks lined with boats. It's convenient to walk around, grab a meal, and watch boats return from the water.
Relax on Clearwater Beach Itself
The main beach area of Clearwater Beach stretches along the Gulf of Mexico, offering vast sandy shores perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach games. The sand is soft and well-maintained, and the water is typically calm and clear, making it ideal for a day of relaxation. Beach chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas are available for rent along the shore, adding comfort for those planning to stay for several hours. There are also well-placed facilities, such as showers and restrooms, nearby. Spending the day on Clearwater Beach is a favorite for locals and visitors.
Take a Dolphin Watching Cruise
Several companies offer dolphin-watching cruises departing from Clearwater Beach Marina. These tours provide a chance to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat, often in the Intracoastal Waterway or just off the Gulf Coast. The tours typically last one to two hours and offer narration about local marine life. Some cruises add extra elements like shelling stops or sunset departures. Dolphin watching has become one of the most enjoyable things to do for those new to Clearwater Beach.
Stroll Along Mandalay Avenue
Mandalay Avenue runs parallel to Clearwater Beach and serves as the main commercial street in the area. The avenue has boutique shops, casual dining spots, and small cafes. Shops here sell everything from resort wear and souvenirs to handmade jewelry and local art. Restaurants along Mandalay Avenue offer seafood, burgers, pizza, and ice cream. The street stays active throughout the day and evening, with visitors enjoying shopping and casual nightlife.
Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a nontraditional aquarium focused on marine life rescue and rehabilitation. The facility is best known for caring for injured or stranded dolphins, sea turtles, and otters. Many of the animals that live here cannot return to the wild due to medical issues. Exhibits highlight conservation efforts and provide insight into marine animal care. Interactive displays, educational programs, and animal viewing areas give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the aquarium's work.
Enjoy a Meal with a View at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is a beachfront restaurant known for its casual seafood dishes and Gulf views. The open-air dining area sits just steps from the sand, allowing diners to enjoy sunsets and ocean breezes while eating. The menu features popular dishes like grouper sandwiches, coconut shrimp, and conch fritters. Live music often adds to the relaxed atmosphere. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is a great place to enjoy a meal while staying close to the beach, giving it a special place among things to do in Clearwater Beach.
Walk or Bike Along the Beach Walk Promenade
The Beach Walk Promenade is a wide, paved path alongside Clearwater Beach, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The path features landscaping, benches, and public art, providing a scenic route along the water without walking directly on the sand. The promenade connects several parts of the beach and leads to shops, cafes, and rental stations for bikes or scooters. It’s a relaxed way to explore the area and enjoy the Gulf views at your own pace.
Sunset at Sand Key Park
Sand Key Park is located across a short bridge just south of Clearwater Beach. The park offers a quieter alternative to the main beach, with wide sandy areas, nature trails, and picnic spots. Visitors appreciate the peaceful setting and easy parking access. Watching the sunset at Sand Key Park is a popular way to end the day. The park’s less crowded beaches provide open views of the Gulf of Mexico, making it easy to find a comfortable spot to relax.
Work with The Pedone Team for Your Real Estate Goals in Clearwater Beach
The Pedone Team, led by husband-and-wife duo Evan and Ashley Pedone, offers unmatched expertise in luxury and waterfront real estate throughout the greater Tampa Bay area, including Clearwater Beach. With a strong reputation for delivering exceptional results, they bring deep local knowledge, global connections, and a client-first approach to every transaction.
Evan and Ashley are known for their creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and dedication to helping buyers and sellers navigate the competitive Clearwater Beach market. Their combined experience, wide-reaching network, and personalized service make them a trusted choice for those looking to buy or sell along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
