Are you making plans to visit Clearwater Beach and are looking for fun things to do that only it can provide? Happily, you won’t have to look any further than our list of unique things to do in Clearwater Beach! I’ve partnered with Hotels.com to share some top spots when you visit. Here’s the scoop.
Clearwater Beach is, happily, one of my favorite beaches to visit. Just about 90 minutes away from Walt Disney World, the area is filled with loads of cool things to do and that includes unique things to the area. Here are the must-dos:
Sink Your Toes into Sand on “The Best Beach in America”
In 2019, Clearwater Beach was ranked the “America’s Best Beach” and the second you step foot onto it, you’ll understand why. Truthfully, it’s practically pristine compliments of a daily raking. All of the beautiful white, sugary sand is like velvet under your hands and feet and it immediately gives you a feeling of “ahh….”.
Even more lovely, you’ll have 2.5 miles of beach to find a spot for your beach chair. As for hotels in Clearwater Beach, there are several that are only steps away from the beach area and range from budget to luxurious.
Visit a Guinness Book Record Town
Did you know that Clearwater Beach holds a title in the Guinness Book of World Records? Yep! It scored the title compliments of a whooping 768 straight sunny days, so bring your sunglasses.
Shop for Local Crafts on a True Fishing Pier
No matter what day you visit Clearwater Beach, when the sun starts to set it’s time for the Pier 60 Sunset Festival. Head out to the Pier and not only will you see beautiful views, you’ll have a chance to shop for affordable crafts from local vendors.
When the sun actually starts to set, take a minute to watch it with the other folks on the beach. It’s magical. And the best part? It’s totally free.
Want more ways to keep your budget in check? Here are the best free things to do in Clearwater Beach.
Say Hello to an Aquatic Superstar
Note: Sadly, Winter the Dolphin passed away on November 11, 2021, due to an intestinal abnormality. We all adored him, so we’re leaving this one on for posterity because it’s still cool to visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
If you enjoy watching animal-themed movies with happy endings, you may have seen “A Dolphin Tale”. Featuring Winter, a rescued dolphin with an injured tail fin, it’s a feel-good movie that’s definitely worth a watch.
These days, Winter (with his pal, Hope) spends his time at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. He offers insight into dolphin rehabilitation (along with the other animals that are unable to be released back to their original homes) with daily training sessions.
Give Props to the Sugar Sand with a Festival
Each year, Clearwater Beach has its Sugar Sand Festival and its definitely worthy of visit. It offers live music, fireworks, and some of the most intricate sand sculptures you’ll ever lay eyes on. Running for about 16 days each April, it’s super popular with both locals and visitors.
Try A Cheeky Meal!
Have you ever tried grouper cheeks? Similar in texture to lobster, they’re a Clearwater delicacy and offer a very-low fat content. In a nutshell, they’re tender and beautifully white. And, yes, they come from the cheek area of grouper.
Looking for great places to dine when you’re in town? Here’s the scoop on where to eat in the Clearwater Beach area.
Take a Trip on the Dolphin Trail
Dolphins love to play in the wake of boats and in Clearwater Beach water tours love showing them having fun. But, if you’re looking for a fun way to see dolphins on land, take a trip on the Dolphin Trail. Located both in St. Pete and Clearwater, there’s over 120 dolphin sculptures. Coming in a over 6-feet tall apiece, each was created by a local artist.
Join in a Winter Wonderland
Squint hard enough and all of that white sand can start to look like snow. So, why not turn the area into a Christmas haven, right? Every year, Winter Wonderland takes over an area in Clearwater and features tons of fun ways to get the holiday spirit. Activities include a petting zoo, playground, bouncy house, and holiday express train. Cost is free (apart from a few activities) and they accept canned goods as admission donations.
What’s your favorite unique thing to do in Clearwater Beach? Leave me a comment below!
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