Planning your Clearwater Beach, Florida vacation

Home to incredible white sand beaches, Clearwater Beach is the place to be if you're serious about spending time on or in the water. Only 3-1/2 miles long, Clearwater Beach offers numerous beach accesses and hosts the biggest sunset celebration north of Key West. In addition, Clearwater Beach, Florida offers easy access to pristine Honeymoon and Caladesi Islands, the jewels in the crown of the Gulf Coast's barrier islands. Located at the intersection of Causeway and Gulf Blvd., Pier 60 Park is a local hot spot that is a definite must see on a visit to Clearwater Beach. Shops, restaurants, a bait shop, and beach concessions are located by the pier in Clearwater Beach, Florida, which is open 24 hours. Inspired by the nightly sunset-watching ritual in Key West, a four-hour festival is held nightly from two hours before to two hours after sundown. Jugglers, magicians, and a variety of entertainers perform for the crowd that gathers each evening.

If you're seeking some rainy day entertainment, or just a break from the beach, check out the Clearwater Beach Marine Aquarium. A nonprofit, working aquarium, the facility is dedicated to public education, marine research, animal assisted therapy and the rescue, and the rehabilitation and release of injured or sick whales, dolphins, otters and sea turtles. For a great family outing, some Clearwater Beach, Florida attractions offer a variety of boat tours, from themed pirate cruises to dolphin watching excursions.

Travel Tips

The beaches at Clearwater Beach, Florida are its main attraction, so beach safety is of utmost importance for vacation planners. Be sure to wear sunscreen with a high SPF, as the sun can be quite intense, even on cloudy days. Reapply after swimming, activity, or after several hours on the beach. While you want to return home with a great tan, a bad sunburn can put a damper on your vacation. Build your tan slowly during your stay. Many areas along Clearwater Beach are patrolled by lifeguards, and families with young children would be advised to frequent these. Clearwater Beach, Florida is a very safe place to visit, but visitors should use common sense. Don't leave valuables in your vehicle, or on the beach unattended. Numerous banks are located throughout the area that offer currency exchange, and ATM's are plentiful.