Things to do in Clearwater

Clearwater’s beachfront is the main draw, with wide sand, a lively pier, and plenty of dolphin-watching boats.

Clearwater’s beachfront is the main draw, with wide sand, a lively pier, and plenty of dolphin-watching boats. But the city also has a solid lineup of parks, family entertainment, and dining that goes beyond the tourist strip.

Pier 60 is the hub of beach activity, with fishing, sunset views, and entertainers. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a must for families, home to the dolphin that inspired "Dolphin Tale." For more family fun, Celebration Station has mini-golf, go-karts, and an arcade. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Sand Key Park or Crest Lake Park, which has a dog park. Dining ranges from seafood at Frenchy's Rockaway Grill to Spanish classics at Columbia Restaurant Sand Key. For live performances, Ruth Eckerd Hall and the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre host a variety of shows.

Frequently asked questions about Clearwater

What are the best outdoor activities in Clearwater?

Clearwater Beach is the top spot for swimming and sunbathing, while Pier 60 offers fishing and sunset views. Sand Key Park provides a quieter beach experience, and parks like Crest Lake Park and Cliff Stephens Park have trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots.

Are there family-friendly attractions in Clearwater?

Yes. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a popular choice, featuring rescued dolphins and sea turtles. Celebration Station offers mini-golf, go-karts, and an arcade, and Escape Thrill provides puzzle rooms for older kids and teens.

Where can I find good seafood in Clearwater?

Frenchy's Rockaway Grill is known for its grouper sandwiches, and Crabby's Beachside Pavilion offers seafood with gulf views. For a more traditional Spanish twist, Columbia Restaurant Sand Key has been serving since 1905.

What performing arts venues are in Clearwater?

Ruth Eckerd Hall hosts music, comedy, and Broadway shows, while the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre features comedy, musicals, and films in an art deco setting. The Early Bird Dinner Theater combines plays with buffet dining.

Are there any dog-friendly parks in Clearwater?

Yes. Crest Lake Park includes a 3-acre dog park, and both Coachman Park and Sand Key Park are dog-friendly. Pier 60 Park also welcomes dogs, making it easy to enjoy the beach with your pet.

Things to do in Clearwater

Department StorePhoto of Macy's — Department Store

Macy's

Department store chain providing brand-name clothing, accessories, home furnishings & housewares.

Clearwater, FL|4
Home Improvement StorePhoto of The Home Depot — Home Improvement Storevia Google Maps

The Home Depot

Chain home improvement retailer for tools, appliances & other products (some offer truck rentals).

Clearwater, FL|4
RestaurantPhoto of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews — Restaurant

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews

Chain for gourmet burgers & other American comfort fare.

Clearwater, FL|4
Shopping MallPhoto of Countryside Square — Shopping MallOur original photo

Countryside Square

Clearwater, FL|4
Grocery StorePhoto of Whole Foods Market — Grocery Storevia Google Maps

Whole Foods Market

Eco-minded chain with natural & organic grocery items, housewares & other products (most sell wine).

Clearwater, FL|4
Pet StorePhoto of Pet Supplies Plus Clearwater — Pet Storevia Google Maps

Pet Supplies Plus Clearwater

Chain carrying natural & U.S.-made pet supplies, plus services such as grooming & adoption.

Clearwater, FL|5
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of Bait House Tackle & Tavern — Seafood Restaurantvia Google Maps

Bait House Tackle & Tavern

Dockside fish shack & tackle shop featuring an elevated menu of fresh local seafood, beer & wine.

Clearwater, FL|5
Sports BarPhoto of Hooters — Sports Barvia Google Maps

Hooters

Sports bar & grill chain famous for chicken wings served by waitresses in short shorts.

Clearwater, FL|4
American RestaurantPhoto of Country Skillet Restaurant — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Country Skillet Restaurant

Breakfast, burgers, seafood, sandwiches & other American eats served in a down-home diner setting.

Clearwater, FL|4
Italian RestaurantPhoto of Gondolier Pizza — Italian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Gondolier Pizza

Family-owned establishment featuring pasta dishes, pizza & other Italian staples in a comfy setting.

Clearwater, FL|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Bacon Street Diner — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Bacon Street Diner

Clearwater, FL|5
Tour AgencyPhoto of The Tropics Boat Tours — Tour Agencyvia Google Maps

The Tropics Boat Tours

Clearwater, FL|5
Book StorePhoto of Barnes & Noble — Book Store

Barnes & Noble

Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.

Clearwater, FL|5
RestaurantPhoto of Applebee's Grill + Bar — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Applebee's Grill + Bar

Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting.

Clearwater, FL|4
Furniture StorePhoto of CITY HOME — Furniture Store

CITY HOME

Retail chain offering a vast selection of home furniture, mattresses & decor.

Clearwater, FL|5
Sushi RestaurantPhoto of Saki Endless Sushi & Hibachi Restaurant — Sushi Restaurantvia Google Maps

Saki Endless Sushi & Hibachi Restaurant

Japanese eatery with bento box lunches, teriyaki dinners & an all-you-can-eat sushi & hibachi grill.

Clearwater, FL|4
SupermarketPhoto of Publix Super Market at Beckett Lake Plaza — Supermarket

Publix Super Market at Beckett Lake Plaza

Supermarket chain with a wide selection of groceries, plus deli & bakery departments.

Clearwater, FL|5
Irish RestaurantPhoto of Okeefe's Tavern — Irish Restaurantvia Google Maps

Okeefe's Tavern

Roomy, wood-paneled Irish pub with a covered patio offering a large American menu & draft beer.

Clearwater, FL|5
Department StorePhoto of Kohl's — Department Storevia Google Maps

Kohl's

Chain department store offering a wide selection of clothing, accessories & homewares.

Clearwater, FL|4
RestaurantPhoto of Hogan's Hangout — Restaurant

Hogan's Hangout

Cocktails & pub eats in a laid-back, 2-story location with large-screen TVs & Hulk Hogan vibes.

Clearwater, FL|4