If you’re looking to put down roots in a vibrant and exciting location where there’s no end of fun things to do, the sun-soaked haven of Clearwater Beach is for you.
Located on the western edge of the Pinellas Peninsula, Clearwater Beach is renowned for its sugar-white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, as well as for its cultural diversity, mouthwatering cuisine, and diverse range of experiences.
Thinking of making Clearwater Beach your new home? Here’s everything you need to know about this wonderful seaside community.
Clearwater Beach, an overview
A barrier island and the northernmost of the Tampa Bay Beaches, Clearwater Beach is a vibrant neighborhood in the City of Clearwater.
While it is predominantly known as a vacation hotspot, Clearwater Beach also has a sizable population of year-round residents, all of whom get to enjoy its abundance of outdoor attractions, and dining, entertainment, and shopping options. You will find interspersed among its hotels and resorts a wide variety of oceanfront homes and condos.
In addition to its selection of top-tier attractions and amenities, another factor behind Clearwater Beach’s popularity among homebuyers is its accessibility, with the neighborhood only a few minutes away from downtown Clearwater. It is also located within 25 miles of St. Petersburg and Tampa, making it easy to enjoy everything that the region is famous for.
Exciting things to do in Clearwater Beach, FL
As expected from a gorgeous island community, Clearwater Beach offers countless opportunities for endless fun under the warm Florida sun. Here are some of our favorite activities and things to do in Clearwater Beach, FL:
Beach activities
Clearwater Beach is renowned for its soft, sugar-like sand, making it perfect for strolls on the shoreline or simply basking in the sun. For those seeking more exhilarating adventures, the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico provide an aquatic playground, with Clearwater Beach a certified hotspot for water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming.
Thrill seekers, meanwhile, will enjoy activities such as jet skiing and parasailing, which will allow them to feel the wind in their hair as they zip across and over the gulf’s waves. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace, on the other hand, can enjoy activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding, both of which offer a tranquil way to explore the coast and take in its beauty.
Dolphin cruises are another option for those who want to observe aquatic fauna but don’t want to get their hair wet. These dolphin cruises, which are available every day of the week, allow visitors to see Florida’s bottlenose dolphins, as well as other marine creatures such as pelicans, egrets, and ospreys, in their natural habitat while remaining safe aboard their vessels.
Attractions. Residents and visitors who want to keep their adventures on dry land need not worry—Clearwater Beach is also home to attractions beyond the shoreline. Here you can just as easily embark on landlocked adventures that blend culture, nature, and entertainment.
Things to do in Clearwater Beach, FL include visiting the iconic Pier 60, a bustling hub for entertainment, crafts, and breathtaking sunset views. Visitors can also stroll along Mandalay Avenue, which is brimming with an array of charming shops as well as eateries bursting with local flavors.
Those who want to get a taste of nature, meanwhile, can immerse themselves in the tranquility of Sand Key Park, a 95-acre coastal haven best known for its amazing views of the salt marshes, turtle nesting grounds, and pristine swimming areas. Open seven days a week, Sand Key Park comes complete with outdoor showers, bathhouses, a boardwalk, and a dedicated nature trail.
Another must-visit attraction in the area is Caladesi Island State Park. Accessible by boat (or by foot at low tide from Clearwater Beach if you’re up for a long walk), this barrier island’s pristine stretch of coast was recently named the second best beach in the country by Dr. Beach. The state park features mangrove forests, a nature trail that winds through several other untouched habitats, a marina, and more. Those who want to learn more about the area’s abundant marine life should head to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a haven for marine life enthusiasts that features rescued dolphins and sea turtles among its collection of aquatic wildlife.
The arts
If indulging in art and culture is something that’s on your list of things to do in Clearwater, FL, a visit to the many museums and galleries around the area just might be the thing for you. Museums that can be accessed from this neighborhood include the Dunedin Fine Art Center, which showcases a diverse range of contemporary artworks from all over the country, and the Heritage Village in Largo, a living history museum with preserved buildings from the 19th century.
Another museum you can check out is the Collection on Palmetto, which houses a fascinating collection of automobiles ranging from classic cars from the 1920s and 30s to muscle cars from the 60s and 70s and more modern supercars from the 2000s. Some of the most notable vehicles on display include a. The museum currently showcases about 100 meticulously maintained and beautifully displayed vehicles, including a 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, and a 2017 Ford GT.
Clearwater Beach residents with cravings for adrenaline-fueled adventures, on the other hand, can choose from several thrilling destinations near the neighborhood. These include Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which offers a heart-pounding experience courtesy of its 10 extreme roller coasters; and Showtime Speedway, where professional racecar drivers engage in high engine revs, high-octane twists and turns, and other exciting stunts.
Want to experience something that’s a bit more luxurious than usual? Charter a helicopter tour! Offered throughout the island, these tours typically last 20 to 45 minutes and provide unobstructed aerial views of Clearwater Beach, its namesake city, and several other must-see attractions such as Tarpon Springs, the Anclote River, and Caladesi Island.
Restaurants
As mentioned earlier, Clearwater Beach has plenty of top-quality restaurants, cafes, and other dining destinations, making it a haven for foodies.
First on our list of must-try restaurants near Clearwater Beach is Frenchy’s Rockaway. A casual food joint, Frenchy’s Rockaway serves some of the best seafood dishes and beachy cocktails in town, all of which are served with a side of live music as well as gorgeous views of the ocean.
Another restaurant you should include in your Clearwater Beach food crawl is Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar. Located just a few steps away from Frenchy’s Rockaway, Palm Pavilion takes pride in its tasty selection of burgers, salads, and sandwiches—the perfect food for those spending a day at the beach.
Badfins Food + Brew is another dining spot you shouldn’t. A laid-back and casual hangout, Badfins specializes in Mexican fare, with their snapper tacos being one of their bestsellers.
For those looking for a restaurant with a diverse menu, Clear Sky Beachside Café is a safe bet. Located just a half block from beautiful Clearwater Beach, Clear Sky Beachside Café serves an extensive pub grub menu filled with everything from crab hush puppies and Cajun seafood pasta to sushi bowls.
For a truly authentic Clearwater Beach dining experience, grab a table at The Bait House Tackle & Tavern. In operation since the 1940s, The Bait House is a full-service restaurant that offers sumptuous dishes all made with fresh, locally caught seafood, as well as an extensive selection of beer and wine. Their bestsellers include seafood cakes, drunken shrimp, and fish tacos.
In addition to its restaurants and diners, Clearwater Beach also has an assortment of bars and pubs, all of which are perfect for those looking for a place for nightcaps and after-work drinks. These include The Shipwreck, a Clearwater Beach pub that has been serving ice-cold beers and good times since 1976.
Another important fixture in the area’s nightlife scene is Jimmy’s On The Edge, a rooftop known for its amazing selection of handcrafted cocktails, delectable appetizers, and vibrant parties.
In the mood for a beach party? Head over to Shepard’s Tiki Beach Bar and Grill! Located at Gulfview Boulevard, Shepard’s serves delicious drinks and food and has a full slate of events each week, making it one of the most exciting places to be in the entire neighborhood.
Shopping
Clearwater Beach residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to opportunities for retail therapy, thanks to the remarkable array of shopping centers in the area.
Among these is Pelican Walk Plaza. Located within a five-minute walk from neighborhood landmarks such as Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort, the upscale Belle Harbor Condos, and Pier 60 Park, this shopping center is home to several major retailers, independent boutiques and shops, and restaurants, making it a must-visit for residents and visitors alike.
Outside of the island, residents can choose from several malls within the city of Clearwater. This includes Countryside Mall, the largest and most popular shopping center in the city. Located in the northeastern corner of the city center, Countryside Mall has over 1 million square feet of retail space. It is anchored by the likes of JCPenney, Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack, and Whole Foods Market. In addition, the mall is also home to a 12-screen cinema, a full-sized ice skating rink, and numerous restaurants.
Wellness and relaxation
It’s no secret that going on hikes, diving, and even just walking all around the city can leave one with aching muscles and sore joints. The good thing is that wellness centers and spa retreats abound in Clearwater Beach, all of which come equipped with restorative beauty and body treatments that can help recharge your mind, body, and spirit.
One of the best in Clearwater Beach is Pallavi, a spa sanctuary inside the beautiful Wyndham Grand Resort. Named after the Sanskrit word for “new leaf,” Pallavi offers various massage, facial, and body treatments. The spa also features facilities such as couples suites and showers, dedicated steam rooms, a luxurious relaxation lounge, and a private ladies’ lanai.
Another wellness center in the neighborhood is The Spa by JW. Located at JW Marriott Clearwater Beach, The Spa by JW offers a wide selection of luxurious treatments, including bespoke massages, aroma bath sessions, facials, detoxifying body wraps, and nail treatments, making it a must-visit for any Clearwater Beach resident or visitor.
Entertainment
Clearwater Beach residents have access to a diverse set of options when it comes to entertainment.
For instance, the neighborhood is just a short drive away from the iconic Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, which hosts top-tier concerts spanning a wide range of genres from rock to classical.
For those seeking live performances, the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in downtown Clearwater offers an intimate setting for theater productions and musical acts alike. First opened in the early 1920s, this historic venue is One of the six venues that compose the Richard B. Baumgardner Center for the Performing Arts and has hosted performances from artists such as American blues icon B.B. King and folk artist Judy Collins.
Meanwhile, cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike can catch both artsy productions and the latest Hollywood blockbusters at Cobb Tyrone Luxury Theatres in nearby St. Petersburg.
Events
Beyond its sun-soaked shores, Clearwater Beach is a cultural hub that hosts a vibrant array of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, a renowned annual event that has featured top-tier artists such as Stan Getz, Etta Jones, Chuck Mangione, and Spyro Gyra. Now in its 44th year, Clearwater Jazz Holiday is a four-day and four-night live music festival that draws tens of thousands of visitors each year to beautiful Coachman Park in Clearwater.
Another must-see event in the area is the Chalktober Art Festival. Held every October, the whole-day event will see artists transform the neighborhood’s sidewalks into canvases for their colorful masterpieces. Aside from the live chalking, the event also features live music, stalls for local sellers and breweries, and food trucks from local restaurants and diners, ensuring tons of fun for residents and tourists alike.
Homes for sale in Clearwater Beach, FL
Considered the jewel of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Clearwater Beach primarily features resort-style residences.
Homes for sale in Clearwater Beach currently have a median list price of $859,000, with the most high-end selections having price tags upwards of $5 million. The most expensive properties in Clearwater Beach are typically located in waterfront communities, such as Island Estates and Sand Key, and offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
When it comes to residential options, Clearwater Beach offers a wide variety of different properties to potential buyers. At present, Clearwater Beach homes for sale include beachfront homes, waterfront homes on the Intracoastal, and inland homes and condos.
Some of the most popular architectural styles in Clearwater Beach include Coastal Contemporary, Mediterranean Revival, Spanish, Victorian, and Ranch, as well as Mid-Century Modern and Art Deco.
EXPLORE PREMIUM REAL ESTATE OPTIONS IN CLEARWATER BEACH
If you’re looking for a place with plentiful opportunities for myriad activities as well as top-tier amenities and services, look no further than Clearwater Beach.
Even more good news: the Sand Key Realty (SKR) team can help you find your dream home in this one-of-a-kind community.
Since our founding in 1974, Sand Key Realty has helped buyers and sellers find luxury properties along Florida’s “Suncoast,” including those in places such as Clearwater Beach and its surrounding areas. We have become the largest independent brokerage in the area thanks to our exceptional work ethic, unique marketing perspective, in-depth knowledge of the Florida housing market, and our service-oriented approach to every transaction.
Through the years, Sand Key Realty has closed hundreds of deals annually, resulting in more than $10 billion in total sales. Yours just might be the next one we close.
Ready to start your home-buying journey in Clearwater Beach? Give us a call at 727.443.0032 or send an email here today.