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An alluring combination of white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Florida’s award-winning Clearwater Beach is the perfect destination to enjoy some fun in the sun. Enjoy the shelling, fishing and water sports on offer, or step away from the beach and see underwater creatures at the marine aquarium, catch a baseball game or go on a thrilling aviation adventure. A great destination for the entire family, read on to discover the best things to do in Clearwater, Florida.
Embrace the coastal lifestyle at Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the Sunshine State, beloved for its powder white sand and crystal blue waters. Aside from its long list of accolades and being put on numerous “Best Beaches in Florida” lists, it also offers beachside fun for all ages, from water sports and cruises to waterfront dining. It’s framed by a picturesque Beach Walk where you can take in the views and boasts a nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60.
Meet famous dolphins at Clearwater Marine Aquarium
With a strong dedication to the rehabilitation of aquatic life, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is also the famous home to Winter and Hope, the dolphins from the hit movie “Dolphin Tale”. Visit nurse sharks called Thelma and Louise in Shark Pass, see North American river otters in the Otter Oasis or say hello to Cocoa the sea turtle. Make sure to see Shipwreck Alley’s underwater viewing tunnel and participate in stingray feedings.
Search for seashells at Sand Key Park
A sandy beach that is home to cute beach cabanas and fun beachside activities, Sand Key Park is also a great place to find conch shells. Search for turkey wing shells, lightning whelk shells and keyhole limpet shells along the quiet shores, or spot endangered birds and turtles nesting. The park has a peaceful atmosphere, offering picnic areas and shelter for shade, where you’ll find a salt marsh with benches to observe herons.
Take the skies at Sky Surfing Aviation
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Clearwater Beach, visit Sky Surfing Aviation. You’ll reach new heights as you soar over the award-winning beach and have the chance to spot dolphins, sharks and turtles in the crystal clear waters. A hands-on flight that puts you in the pilot seat, you will work with an FAA Certified Flight Instructor as you get a view most visitors never get to experience.
Catch a game at Spectrum Field
The spring training home to the Philadelphia Phillies and the Clearwater Threshers, the Spectrum Field is designed with a classic Floridian architectural style. It includes a 360-degree main concourse, 7,300 fixed seats with grass berm seating for an additional 1,500 and a tiki-hut pavilion in left field. There’s a kids play area and group picnic areas, while you can keep score on the state-of-the-art video scoreboard and shop for souvenirs in its expansive team store.
Embark on a journey on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise
Take the entire family to enjoy the festivities on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise. You can soak up the sunshine and enjoy the scenic views of Clearwater as you search for pods of dolphins frolicking in the waters and participate in a fun-filled treasure hunt, face painting and water gun games. Hear stories of pirates and join a dance party with the spirited crew on an adventure you won’t soon forget.
Take a break in Moccasin Lake Nature Park
A wonderful escape from the city bustle, visit the 51-acre Moccasin Lake Nature Park to explore the scenic trails and boardwalks under a canopy of shady oaks. You can admire the tranquil ponds and creeks and spot local wildlife such as gopher turtles, peacocks and bald eagles, or attend one of the park’s classes and programs. It’s a great place for the entire family to get out and enjoy nature, with a nature center that offers activities for the kids such as a butterfly garden and aviary.
See a performance at Capitol Theatre
For a dose of local culture, visit Capitol Theatre. Dating back to 1921, it is one of the oldest theatres still in operation in Florida. A cultural landmark in Downtown Clearwater, you can experience world-class entertainment in its intimate setting and catch performances such as music nights, stand-up comedy, dance recitals and movie showings. The historic venue seats 750 and includes an outdoor balcony that wraps around the building overlooking the Clearwater causeway.
Soak up the scenery at Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi Island State Park is full of stunning landscapes that make for a great day of admiring its natural beauty. It’s one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier island’s on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and its sugar-white sand beach feels like you’ve found your own slice of paradise. Regularly ranked one of the top beaches in the United States, spend an afternoon swimming in the crystal clear waters and combing the beach for colorful seashells.
Saddle up at Cypress Breeze Farm
Take a guided tour through Pinellas Park with Cypress Breeze, where you’ll be taken through the North Skyway Park to a sandbar on this unique excursion and wade through Tampa Bay’s serene emerald waters. Enjoy the views from out in the water and learn about the area’s native marine life and animals. You can also explore backcountry roads through a scenic trail behind their farm, as it’s a great way to see some of the area’s natural beauty with your loved one.
Enjoy the idyllic landscapes of Honeymoon Island State Park
Honeymoon Island is a secluded state park that is perfect for those seeking privacy and tranquility. It’s one of the most popular parks in Florida, with a pristine shoreline highlighted by crystal clear waters. Spend your days sunbathing and shell collecting, or take a walk along the three-mile nature trail full of osprey, bald eagle, and great horned owls. Close the day by catching a stunning sunset and it will be an experience that is surely hard to beat.
