51 Things to do in and around Clearwater Beach, Florida 

Copyright 1998 Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce



 

  1. Get All the Information You Need - Our newly opened Visitor Information Center located in the lobby of the City Marina Building is open 7 days a week with a friendly, knowledgeable staff to help you enjoy your stay.  Maps, brouchures and information kiosk on premises.
  2. Walk along the beach - If you stroll, saunter, power walk or run, Clearwater Beach has a three mile stretch of award winning, white, sandy beaches on which to do it.  The three mile beach is lined with a tropical atmosphere of palm trees, luxury hotels, smaller motels, and condominiums.  All beaches are public and can be accessed from almost anywhere.  Walking at dusk is much cooler than in the day, and you will have the chance to experience our famous sunsets.  Clearwater Beach is a beautiful sight at night as well.  Look up, and most nights you will see a cloudless sky filled with twinkling stars.  Look out across the calm waters, and you may be greeted by a dolphine or two.  Walking is rated amoung the top exercises in the world.  Of course whether you enjoy it or not depends largely upon your surroundings, and we think the picturesque beaches of Clearwater Beach will inspire many enjoyalbe walks.
  3. Hook the Big One! - There have been many a fish story told from the docks of Clearwater Marina.  A license is not needed to fish our waters.  Charter your own half or full day fishing excursions aboard the Fanta-Sea into the Gulf of Mexico where you can expect to catch a thrilling variety of game fish.
  4. Attend Worship Services - The Chapel-By-The-Sea Community Church's worship service is at 10:45 A.M. on Sundays at 54 Bay Esplanade on Clearwater Beach.  Van pick-up service is available.  You can also attend worship at a church of the denomination of your choice nearby.
  5. Check Out the Malls - The Clearwater aria offers many wonderful malls to meet even the most discriminating tastes.  Choose from Clearwater Mall on S.R. 60, Countryside Mall on U.S. Highway 19, Largo mall on Seminole Blvd. and Bay Area Outlet Mall on Roosevelt Blvd.  All malls are conveniently located within minutes of the beach.
  6. Ride the World's Largest Speedboat - This brand new 73' twin turbo charged V12 powered vessel provides exciting fun and cruises for all ages, and is U.S. Coast Guard approved.  You can enjoy 2 rides in one in this unique speedboat.  Enjoy a cruise of Clearwater Harbor and Pass.  Clearwater Beach and Sand Key Park.  Then... THRILL to a refreshing, exhilarating ride in the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
  7. Enjoy a Dinner Cruise - The Show Queen is a sixty-five foot triple decked river boat specifically designed for harbor cruises.  The first and second decks are fully enclosed with air conditioning.  The trid deck is a large open air deck which provides beautiful views of the scenic waterfront.  The vessel features a full service bar, full service galley, state of the art sound system, restrooms on both decks and tastefully decorated interior.  View spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, enjoy lively entertainment, cocktails, dancing and dining on their 2 and 3 hour cruises.  Choose a delicious entree, carefully prepared by their on-board chef.  Lunch & Sunday Brunch cruises offer relaxation in the sun on the observation deck.  Try one of the famous frozen drinks or one of their daily drink specials.  The Show Queen is wheelchair accessible.
  8. Play Wet - Both Jet Ski and Boat/Ski Rentals are avaiable up and down the beach and at the City Marina in the Harbor.
  9. Meet Sunset Sam - See rescued dolphins, sea, turtles and otters at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where questions are answered and sea life abounds!  Meet Sunset Sam, the resident dolphin.  Learn about the biology and behaviour of dolphin, otters and sea turtles
  10. Spend "Saturday" in the City" - An old-fashioned farmers market is downtown in Station Square Park Featuring produce, flowers, baked goods, arts & crafts, and entertainment.Every Saturday, October- May. 
  11. Read the Latest Bestseller. - The Clearwater Beach Branch Library has it all, even newspapers from Back home. It’s adjacent to the Memorial Civic Center building. 462-6890
  12. Gamble on the Gulf - Coastal Gaming Poker offers FREE 6 hour cruises for Poker players aboard the Crown Empress, sailing twice Daily from the Clearwater Bay Marina on the mainland. Other features include free buffet, jackpots, live Entertainment and exciting full casino action. For poker Reservations.
  13. Learn to Sail - The Clearwater Sailing Center, located on Sand Key, if perfect for those looking to sail and learn the ropes.
  14. Find a Bargain - Two huge flea markets, Wagon Wheel Flea Market and Oldsmar Flea Market are filled with new, used and collectible everything and are only a half-hour away by car.
  15. Travel the Pinellas Trail - Enjoy a day of biking, skating, running or walking on our beautiful Pinellas Trail. This unique experience allows you to travel the length of Pinellas via anyway but a vehicle.
  16. Trip the Light Fantastic - Every Thursday evening, dance to the music of the big bands, you can even take a lesson or two. Memorial Civic Center at the entrance to the beach. 462-6122
  17. Take a Tour - Take a one or multi-day excursion with Tampa Bay Tours to Busch Gardens, Kennedy Space Center, and all Orlando attractions. Private tours, special group rates and tour guides are all available upon request. 584-0001.
  18. Plan a Meeting - Trade Show, Convention or Banquet. With 65,000 sq. feet the easily accessible Haborview Center provides flexibility, experience and quality of service for events 40-1400 guests, and not to mention one of the most beautiful views in the City. 462-6778.
  19. Stay Fit! - The Olympus Gym is located high atop a beach hotel and offers aerobics, personal trainers, hi-tech equipment and a breathtaking view of the Gulf and Bay. 443-2255.
  20. A Tug Boat Adventure - Most of us grew up enjoying riding on the real tug. Coast Guard Certified for 35 passengers, the Little Toot provides safe fun for adults and children. Their captain is an Expert at finding where the dolphins are and providing lots of close-up opportunities.
  21. Experience the Gulf the Pirate Way! - Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise has something for everyone, young or old. Cruise away into the fantasy world of swashbucklers and pirates aboard the Pirate’s Ransom. The frequent sightings of Playful dolphins just adds to the excitement of a Pirate Cruise. Get your face painted, hear the story of the legend of Captain Memo, The Pirate and do the masquerade all in a two hour cruise. 446-2587
  22. Attend a Concert! - Under the stars in Coachman Park overlooking Clearwater Harbor on Friday evenings, mid-June-mid-August. 
  23. Spike it! - You can attend the professional beach volleyball tournaments or get into your own pick up game right on the beach
  24. Enjoy Kid’s Week - Kid’s Week is a unique event exclusive to Clearwater Beach. Each year, one week is dedicated to the Children (and their parents) visiting Clearwater Beach. Different activities are held each day for kid’s to enjoy, sand castle building contests, fishing contests, funky fashion show, tour the gul on a sight. Seeing cruise, tour the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, take A Jolley Trolley ride and visit different shops around the Beach for special gifts and discounts. This year, Kid’s Week will be held June 22-26.
  25. Cheer for your Team! - You can attend Spring Training or regularly scheduled games for the Philadelphia Philly’s, the Toronto Blue Jay’s, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Tampa Bay Mutiny, and the Tampa Bay Terror all within a short distance of the beach.
  26. Travel in Style - Red Rose Limousine Service, your personal chauffeur whether its just out to dinner, attending and event or attraction or first class transportation to or from the airports. 538-9843
  27. Be a Sport,Place a Bet - Para-mutual wagering and the excitement of being there in person at the Greyhounds, Horses, and Jai Alai is available throughout the Tampa Bay area.
  28. Pump Iron - Or meditate, play bridge, basketball, tennis or even take a line dance class at the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center. 462-6138.
  29. Do What Comes Naturally! - Caladisi island is a state park accessible only by ferry or private boat, and is home to the 3rd finest beach in the United States. Hike trails through 3 miles of natural Florida wilderness, complete with local flora and fauna that lead to the beach. Pack a picnic, bring a book and a bag for sea shells.
  30. For Swingers of all Ages - The beautiful new Pier 60 Park complete with concession stand and pavilion for staged events has swings, sliding boards, and other playground amenities in a natural setting at the entrance to the beach. 
  31. Catch a Snook - Or a cobia or a sea trout, at Pier 60 Fishing Pier. One of Clearwater’s favorite fishing spots, the pier is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day (except Christmas Day). The Pier offers a full service bait house with gear rental and sales, live bait, Snacks and beverages. No fishing license is required. 462-6466.
  32. Tee Off - Over 26 private and public courses to challenge even the most experienced amateur. Well known tournaments are held at Hilton Innisbrook Resort, Saddlebrook and the Cheval Polo Golf Club each year. 
  33. Sail the 50- foot Catamaran - Kai Lani, Clearwater’s Fastest Sailing Charter Boat is located in the Clearwater Marina (just look for the yellow mast). Kai Lani sails during the day and also sails at sunset. It is capable of speeds of over 20 knots under sail, which should excite even the most experienced of sailors. During the day, Kai Lani is perfect for sunning lounging, while the evening is great for couples seeking the ultimate romantic sunset. Passengers on Kai Lani usually turn the day or evening into a great party. Also available for private charters. Reservations are recommended. 446-6778
  34. Visit A Great Village - Tarpon Springs, 20 minutes north, is an authentic Greek Sponge diving and fishing village, featuring Greek foods, shops, museum and sponge diving exhibitions. 
  35. Pamper Yourself! - The famous Safety Harbor Spa has been the destination of some of the worlds most famous people. Experience massage, facials, Spa’s and cutting edge fitness in the waterfront resort. This is perfect day spent after touring Florida and soaking up all of Florida’s sunshine. Will rejuvenate you and get you ready to go home. A perfect ending or beginning to any Florida vacation. 
  36. Ride the Jolley Trolley - Fun to ride, transportation for sightseeing and shopping. Stops every 20-30 minutes at routes along the Beach and to island Estates, Sand Key, and Downtown. The cost of each trip is .50 per person. The Trolley station is located in the Memorial Civic Center at the entrance of the beach. 
  37. Remember - To never let it happen again. The Tampa Bay Holocaust Memorial Museum and Educational Center newly opened in St. Petersburg has a profound effect on all who visit there. 
  38. Celebrate the Sunset - Sunsets at Pier 60, a nightly event featuring artists, craftsmen, musicians, jugglers, tightrope walkers and much more attracts local and visitors from 2 hours before to 2 hours after sunset. 449-1036.
  39. Shop ‘till you Drop - Unique gifts, mens clothing, women’s boutiques, leather goods, used Levi’s swim wear, gold and diamonds, post cards, souvenirs and original works of art. Browse the shows up and down the beach. Sand Key, Island Estates. 
  40. Hit a Hole in One - At Captain Bligh’s mini-golf overlooking the gulf. The whole family will enjoy this tropical pirate themed course with a video arcade and refreshments. 
  41. MOSI!! - Come in and see all you can be at the Museum of Science & Industry. MOSI offers more than 450 "minds-on" interactive activities, making science a real life adventure. Enjoy bioworks & butterfly garden, an engineered ecosystem that emulates natural wetlands and provides a natural habitat for butterflies. Cruise the Galaxy at the Saunders Planetarium, daily shows and weekend "star parties"(weather permitting). Conduct your own mission in a 21st century classroom with space station and mission control simulators at the GTE Challenger Learning Center, part of an international network of centers established by the families of the Challenger crew.
  42. Go Back in Time - The Eishenhauer Corp. showed that it was possible to step back in time more than fifty years and share a nostalgic and romantic part of the past with everyone. "The Bird of Paradise" is unique unto itself offering romantic sightseeing flights around Tampa Bay and the Gulf coast in a beautifully restored World War II Twin-engine legend then a fabulous dinner at the St. Pete/Clearwater Airport’s 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant to cap off a memorable and exciting voyage into the past. 1-888-BEECH-18.(1-888-233-2418).
  43. Go on a Safari! - Busch Gardens Theme Park, an African Adventure filled with natural animal habitats, hair-raising roller coasters and water rides is just across the bay. 
  44. Become an Art Critic - World famous, the Salvador Dali Museum, located in St. Petersburg, ranks as one of the top attractions in Florida receiving the highest rating by the Michelin Green Guide- the only such attraction on the west coast to be so honored. Daily tours of the museum’s fascinating collection will educate, yet entertain you, about one of the 20th century‘s greatest artist Salvador Dali. Bewildering double images and incredible paintings will surprise; sculptures, holograms and art glass will amaze; and early impressionist-style paintings and melting clicks will delight you. You are assured of finding something special. 
  45. Ruth Eckerd Hall - Richard B. Baumgardner Center for the Performing Arts. Since opening in 1983, more than 3 million people have attended performances at Ruth Eckerd Hall. This beautiful unique facility was designed by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, and is easily accessible form anywhere in the Bay Area. 
  46. Add a Little Culture - The Museum of Fine Arts hosts a wealth of treasures in a mediterranean villa setting. The elegant Palladian-style building combines the styles of a classic- art museum and a mediterranean villa at home in Florida’s tropical climate. The collection has more than 4,000 objects extending from antiquity to the present day. Lectures, tours, classes, films, and performing arts events enhance visitor’s understanding of the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and art and culture in general. 
  47. Fire Your Imagination! - The Best Museum you ever Laid Hands On. Imagine a museum where you don’t just look at the exhibits. You touch them. Move them. Explore them. And in some cases, actually become Part of them. This is Great Explorations. And if it doesn’t sound like any place you’ve been before, it’s for a good reason. It’s not. Great Explorations is a place for people of all ages to stretch their mental muscles. Test their wits. And fire their imaginations. Are you ready for excitement? Are you ready for fun? Are you ready to be challenged and rewarded? Refreshed and recharged? Then you’re ready for a trip through Great Explorations, The Hands on Museum.
  48. Decorate Your Tree - One of America’s Largest and Most Beautiful Christmas Stores. Everyday is Christmas at Robert’s Christmas Wonderland. Enter their magical forest with over 100 trees, animated scenes, pine scent and Christmas music. Remember Christmas past and tingle with the excitement of Christmas yet to come. Robert’s is a Christmas Fantasyland for all ages to enjoy. Open 7 days a week all year long.
  49. Anyone Can Fly - Parasail City offers 3 different heights to choose from. They have the state of the art system that allows you to safely take off and land gently on the boat. Professionally trained crew provides excellent service and are USCG licensed captains. Get a "Birds Eye View" of the beautiful beaches. Experience the exhilarating ride of a ofshore racing hull while awaiting your chance to fly. Free Shuttle. 449-0566.
  50. Enjoy Bird Watching - The Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is a refuge for as many as 500 injured, recuperating, and permanently crippled land and sea birds-brown pelicans, cormorants, white herons and various birds of prey. This sanctuary has become known worldwide for its dedication to the preservation of wildlife. 
  51. Be an Olympic "Wannabe" - Train to be an Olympian, or just stay in shape. The Long Center offers Clearwater residents and its visitors a 50 meter Olympic size pool, a training pool, 3 in-door basketball courts, locker rooms, fitness room which includes cardio and weight training machines, a playground and meeting rooms. 726-2181 

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