Clearwater, FL
What to do in Clearwater, FL
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked as one of the top beaches in the United States, boasting powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can engage in various water sports, such as parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. The beach is also known for its stunning sunsets, and the nearby Pier 60 offers a vibrant nightly sunset festival with street performers, artisans, and live music. Families can enjoy the beach’s playground, and there are plenty of options for dining and shopping along the lively Beach Walk.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a renowned marine life rescue and rehabilitation center that gained widespread recognition through its connection with Winter the dolphin, star of the “Dolphin Tale” movies. Visitors can observe and learn about a variety of marine animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and pelicans. The aquarium provides educational presentations and interactive experiences, making it an engaging place for visitors of all ages to appreciate and understand marine life conservation efforts.
Caladesi Island State Park
Accessible by boat or ferry, Caladesi Island State Park offers natural, unspoiled beauty, featuring three miles of pristine beaches, hiking trails, and tranquil mangroves. Visitors can explore the island’s diverse ecosystems, go shelling, birdwatching, or simply relax in the serene surroundings. The park also provides picnic pavilions and a concession stand, and visitors should keep an eye out for the playful wildlife that inhabits the island, including playful dolphins and various bird species.
Clearwater Beach Marina
The Clearwater Beach Marina provides numerous opportunities for adventure on the water. Visitors have the option to rent a boat, go on a fishing charter, or take a dolphin-watching cruise. Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in deep-sea fishing excursions, while thrill-seekers can try their hand at parasailing or take a high-speed ride on a jet boat. The marina is an excellent starting point for those looking to explore the beauty of Clearwater from a different perspective.
Philippe Park
Located along the shoreline of Old Tampa Bay, Philippe Park offers a serene retreat for visitors seeking natural beauty and historical significance. The park features picturesque walking trails, shaded picnic areas, and stunning views of the bay. History enthusiasts can explore the park’s ancient Indian mounds, as well as the remains of an early historic settlement. With its blend of natural allure and historical intrigue, Philippe Park provides a peaceful and enriching experience for all who visit.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning
Start your day by visiting Clearwater Beach, often ranked as one of the best beaches in the United States. Enjoy the soft white sand and clear waters, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a paddleboard or a jet ski.
Afternoon
Head to Pier 60, a lively spot known for its daily sunset festivals, street performers, and local vendors. It’s a great place for souvenir shopping and enjoying the stunning waterfront views.
Evening
Explore the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the dolphin, made famous by the film “Dolphin Tale.” This unique facility focuses on marine life rescue and rehabilitation.
Day 2:
Morning
Spend the morning exploring Sand Key Park, a quieter alternative to Clearwater Beach. The park offers beautiful nature trails, picnic areas, and a pristine beach, perfect for morning relaxation.
Afternoon
Visit the revitalized Cleveland Street District in downtown Clearwater. Enjoy browsing through local shops, art galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss the impressive mural art scattered throughout the area.
Evening
Conclude your Clearwater adventure with a sunset cruise. There are several options available, including sailing cruises and speedboat tours, providing a unique perspective of the area’s stunning coastline and a memorable end to your visit.
Boat Tours
Explore the Intracoastal Waterway or enjoy a dolphin-watching cruise to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Calypso Queen Tropical Party Buffet Cruise
This casual cruise offers you breathtaking views while cruising the calm & tranquil waters of Clearwater, Florida! Enjoy sightseeing and narration on the afternoon cruise or dancing on the evening cruise, tropical drinks (own expense) and more. Our tropical themed cruise offers a delicious Tropical Island Style Dinner Buffet including mango glazed chicken, beef teriyaki and pulled pork. The Cruise Director/DJ on the evening cruise provides music for dancing and fun interactive entertainment with a Caribbean flair.
Tropical Island Style Buffet Menu Includes:
Assorted Florida Fruits
Caesar Salad
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad
Key West Potato Salad
Roasted Chicken with Mango Glaze
Tender Beef Teriyaki
Pulled Pork in a Sweet BBQ Sauce
Blackened White Fish with Spicy Cream Sauce
Southern Style Ziti in Zesty Sauce
Yellow Rice
Black Beans
Vegetables
Fresh Baked Rolls & Butter
Menu changes may occur as we strive to provide the freshest products and ideas.
Book Today on Viator From $45.91
Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour
Established in 1999, Encounters With Dolphins has been safely providing guests the opportunity to view dolphins, learn about Clearwater and enjoy the sand and sun on Compass Island and maybe even take a dip on the island! We are a small business founded on the principal of wanting our guests to have the same experiences we would want to have on our own vacation. We’re also proud of the fact that almost all of our staff are either marine biologist, conservationist or experts in marine wildlife. All of us work tirelessly to ensure that all of our customers have an enjoyable and relaxing time with us!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $35.67
Clearwater Dolphin-Watching Tour
Go in search of bottlenose dolphins on this 2-hour cruise from Florida’s Clearwater Bay to the beautiful, emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy snacks and beverages available for purchase on board and listen as your captain highlights interesting facts about the Gulf Coast. Dolphin sightings are guaranteed!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $37.15
Half-Day Private Boating On Platinum Funship - Clearwater Beach
A Boat Day offers private, customized boat charters for small groups of up to 10 passengers. Sit back and relax on the very comfortable, 27 foot double-decker Funship with a slide, as you cruise the waterways with a Captain as your guide. Your boating adventure will get you up close to wild dolphins and take you to secluded barrier islands so you can go shelling on pristine beaches or swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Our private boat tours are perfect for family outings, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, bachelorette parties, marriage proposals, romantic getaways, reunions, spreading ashes, or any other reason!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $950.00
Jet Ski Rentals
Rent jet skis and zip across the waves, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you explore the clear waters of Clearwater.
One Hour Guided JetSki Tour
Depart from our beautiful Holiday Inn at Indian Rocks location with one of our guides! We will take you down the beatiful intercoastal Indian Rocks beach up to a more open area. There, our guides will let you go out and enjoy a thrilling experience on the jetski up and down the coast of Indian Rocks & Clearwater Beach!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $99.00
2 Hour Guided Segway Tour around Clearwater Beach
We will embark on an 8 mile loop of the Clearwater Beach & Boardwalk area. We will go over the Causeway Bridge, go to the old fishing pier and what is considered "Old Clearwater," possibly see some dolphins and take in the panoramic views of CWB then head back to our starting point as we cross Pier 60.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $65.00
Dolphin Encounters
Swim with dolphins, interact with these intelligent marine mammals, or enjoy a dolphin encounter experience at facilities like Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour
Established in 1999, Encounters With Dolphins has been safely providing guests the opportunity to view dolphins, learn about Clearwater and enjoy the sand and sun on Compass Island and maybe even take a dip on the island! We are a small business founded on the principal of wanting our guests to have the same experiences we would want to have on our own vacation. We’re also proud of the fact that almost all of our staff are either marine biologist, conservationist or experts in marine wildlife. All of us work tirelessly to ensure that all of our customers have an enjoyable and relaxing time with us!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $35.67
Clearwater Dolphin-Watching Tour
Go in search of bottlenose dolphins on this 2-hour cruise from Florida’s Clearwater Bay to the beautiful, emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy snacks and beverages available for purchase on board and listen as your captain highlights interesting facts about the Gulf Coast. Dolphin sightings are guaranteed!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $37.15
Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach
50-foot shark themed vessel. The only shark that dolphins love, producing a "MEGA" wake that dolphins love to jump and play in. Covered vessel with sun area. Padded seats and restroom.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $28.00
Private Party Boat to Island Hop, Dolphin Watch, and Swim
This boat is entirely yours for the ultimate party experience! Explore the vibrant heart of Clearwater in style with our Island Hop and Dolphin Watch. Hop aboard our spacious boat (up to 20) as we set sail through the beautiful bay. This adventure is perfect for birthdays, bachelorettes, bachelors, corporate outings, and people just looking to have a fun day on the water.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Anchor at a shallow island in the middle of the bay, where you can walk onto this awesome tiny sand beach and take a refreshing dip in the waters. You’ll also find a collection of fun floats and lively music to keep the atmosphere going.
Nope, Pedaling is not necessary since it's 2024 and we haven an engine, but feel free to give it a go. With the freedom to BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) you can sip on your favorite drinks while you soak in the sun and enjoy the company of your own private Island Party. Book your tour today and get ready for a day of pure fun and excitement.
Book Today on Viator From $1100.00
Fishing Charters
Embark on a fishing adventure in the Gulf of Mexico with experienced captains who will guide you to the best fishing spots.
Full-Day Private Guided Fishing Charter in Florida’s Gulf Coast
There's no better place to fish than the Central Gulf Coast of Florid. Approximately 3 million people go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico every year. The Gulf is one of the most ecologically diverse bodies of water, offering first-time fishers and expert anglers alike the chance to see sharks, dolphins and sea turtles.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $833.34
Half-Day Private Guided Fishing Charter to Florida’s Gulf Coast
Approximately 3 million people go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico every year. The Gulf is one of the most ecologically diverse bodies of water, offering first-time fishers and expert anglers alike the chance to see sharks, dolphins and sea turtles. Each charter is customized to meet your desires. Fish for Redfish, Snook, Trout, inshore Grouper, Mackerel and dozens of other species in the beautiful waters of Florida’s Central Gulf Coast.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $576.93
Holiday Inshore Fishing Charters
Experience and explore backwaters of Holiday and Anclote Key Island State Park. Always a short distant and boat ride to great fishing in Anclote Anchorage. Enjoy fishing one of the most popular and unique ecosystem found within the area. Fishing is great all year round, and there is such diversity of fish nearshore, shallow fishing for Snook, Redfish, Trout and Tarpon, depending on the season. Even on windy days there are plenty of places to fish, in the Sting ray Cover area where you can fish one of the many barrier islands, and hundreds of miles of backcountry water shoreline, making this an experience, not just another fishing trip.
While visitors and travelers were experiencing Holiday, FL and the outdoor adventures, they also enjoyed Key Vista Nature Park, or something uniquely different like a Race to Escape game perfect for friends or family!
Book Today on Viator From $700.00
Private Half Day Fishing Charter in Florida at Clearwater Beach
Choose boat tour for an exciting, action-packed, and unforgettable fishing experience in Clearwater Beach, Florida! With our expert captain, state-of-the-art equipment, and personalized service, you'll be sure to have a successful and memorable day on the water.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $750.00
Sunset Cruises
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico from the deck of a cruise ship while enjoying live music and cocktails.
Sunset Cruise from Clearwater
Our Sunset Celebration Cruise lasts approximately two hours and will take you from Clearwater Bay through Clearwater Pass to the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Sail the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico as you view a breathtaking Florida sunset and — if you’re lucky you may witness the legendary green flash. Your crew will point out some interesting facts about the natural wonders of the Gulf Coast as well as popular sights along the way. We are pleased to include a Complimentary Sunset Champagne Toast for all guests 21 and up.
While we do not guarantee dolphin sightings on our Sunset Cruise we often see them. We simply cannot guarantee because it gets darker earlier at some times of the year.
We ask that all guests check in to our booth 45 minutes prior to tour departure time. We begin boarding our tours 15 minutes prior to departure and always leave on time. We cannot wait for anyone who isn't there by departure time.
Book Today on Viator From $37.15
2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida
Our Evening Sunset Cruise is a 2 hour cruise of the Intracoastal Waterway, Clearwater Pass, and into the Gulf of Mexico (weather permitting). Your crew will point out interesting Gulf Coast sights, including the ICW's abundant dolphins! Our boat is a 46-foot long, 2 deck vessel certified by the Coast Guard to carry 49 passengers. We limit cruises to 36 people to ensure a comfortable and spacious cruise for all guests. A complimentary champagne toast is included for all guests age 21 and over. Beer, wine, hard seltzers, and soft drinks are available for purchase while on board.
Please note - the boat departs at the listed time. Please arrive AT LEAST 15 minutes prior to facilitate check-in and boarding.
Traffic in Clearwater can be brutal, especially during peak seasons. Please plan accordingly. The boat leaves the dock at the listed departure time whether you have made it on time or not. Refunds are only given when requested at least 24 hours in advance.
Book Today on Viator From $34.99
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Explore Clearwater's waterways by kayaking or paddleboarding, enjoying a peaceful and scenic experience while observing the local wildlife.
Kayaking Clear through Clearwater
Take a 100% clear kayak-guided tour with us! Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience where you can come and see Clear through Clearwater!
We take great pride in offering amazing clear kayak adventures in the beautiful waters surrounding Clearwater Beach. As experienced Tour Guides, we've worked hard to make sure our tours are anything but run-of-the-mill. We regularly find Dolphins, Manatees, and many other types of wildlife.
Our guides have been trained in CPR, first-aid, and ACA Kayak rescue so you can rest assured you’re guide has the training to have a safe and fun tour.
At Sea Glass Kayaking, we would like to inform everyone that we operate on a reservation-only basis No walkup's are available.
Please note that due to license requirements in the city of Clearwater, Guided rental customers at our 69 Bay Esplanade location are required to launch the kayaks themselves. Our team is available to offer instruction to ensure a successful launch.
Please sea our website for more info.
Book Today on Viator From $74.00
2 Hour Tandem Kayak Tour (Price for 2 People)
Experience Anclote River and everything it has to offer. You'll be guided through the mangroves spotting wildlife along the way. Learning about the Eco Systems here in Florida and stopping by the Historic Sponge Docks.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $110.00
E-Foil and Kiteboarding Lessons in Florida
Kiteboarding and e-foiling are sports that combines aspects of paragliding, surfing, windsurfing, skateboarding, snowboarding, and wakeboarding. They are a fun and unique way to get outside and open the doors to new adventures and experiences. The feeling of gliding across the water is exhilarating.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $175.00
Waterfront Dining
Indulge in fresh seafood and other delicious cuisine at waterfront restaurants offering beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Clearwater Inshore Fishing Charter
Experience and explore waters of
Clearwater Beach and
Caladesi Island State Park. Always a short distant and boat ride to great fishing in Clearwater Bay. Enjoy fishing one of the most popular and unique ecosystem found within downtown. Fishing is great all year round, and there is such diversity of nearshore, island hoping and backcountry fishing for
Black Drum, Redfish, Cobia, Trout and
Jack Crevalle depending on the season. Even on windy days, there are plenty of places to fish, in the Bay, you can fish one of the many barrier islands, and hundreds of miles of backcountry water shoreline, making this an experience, not just another fishing trip.
Travelers and Visitors of Clearwater Beach also enjoyed the Clearwater Marine Aquarium or experience in the Boeing 737 Flight Simulations or even an awesome game at Spectrum Field.
Book Today on Viator From $600.00