Best of Clearwater Beach Florida – Restaurants and Things to do

Clearwater Beach dazzles with pristine beaches and inviting waters. Trip Advisor named it the #1 beach in the country in 2018. Located at the north end of the beach, Caladesi Island was named the best in the country by Dr Beach in 2008.

Beyond the beaches, Clearwater Beach has a welcoming, small-town feel. At the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, you’ll find Winter the Dolphin, the star of the Dolphin Story movies. Winter false-tail swims and films of their triumphs have resonated with adults and children alike who identify with the dolphin’s struggles.

With Clearwater Beach attractions like these, great restaurants and family-friendly accommodations, and exciting beach activities, Clearwater Beach’s many options will make the whole team smile.

Clearwater Beach, Florida: The northernmost developed barrier island along the Tampa Bay beaches. However, Clearwater Beach is part of the City of Clearwater, unlike our other island communities. Today, fun-seekers and sun-seekers come worldwide to enjoy Clearwater Beach’s resorts, attractions, recreation, restaurants and shops.

Restaurants in Clearwater Beach

Some of our most iconic restaurants are located right on the sand, welcoming diners with freshly caught seafood, refreshing beverages, live music and unparalleled beach views.

Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is a must-visit for those seeking the ultimate sea bass experience with its brightly painted facade and famous seafood recipes. Enjoy fresh seafood, sip a frozen concoction on the beach patio, and listen to local musicians play their favourite covers.

Just a stone’s throw north, the Palm Pavilion Beach Bar & Grill is an excellent option for casual happy hour fare or big dinner plates. The Rockaway Grill or Palm Pavilion has a show waiting for you if you stay for sunset.

Are you Looking for a Romantic Date?

Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber serves a gourmet comfort food menu in a chic, nautical-inspired setting.

Carretta on the Gulf, located in the charming resort of Sandpearl, features a menu of dishes inspired by global traditions. There is a sushi bar and a ceviche bar. Bonus: the stunning view of the bay will dazzle you and your girlfriend at sunset.

Are we looking for a healthy way to start the day?

Head to Basimo Beach Cafe for avocado toast, smoothies and expertly prepared espresso. They are also open for lunch.

Steps from the surf, the Barefoot Beach House has a window where you can order a sea bass sandwich—no shoes required. You’ll also find tons of kid-friendly favourites.

For a casual lunch or dinner with craft beer and live music, head over to Badfins Food & Brew and enjoy fish tacos and delicious cocktails on the spacious patio. (Hint: “guacamole street” is required here.)

Do you want to Relax with Friends or family with a Cold Drink?

Sharky’s Beach Bar has a fun shark-themed cocktail list, a menu of happy hour favourites like jalapenos, and hearty snacks like homemade lasagna. Also, there is plenty of outdoor seating with a view.

Enjoy live music, cocktails and light fare at Shephard’s Tiki Beach Bar & Grill with stunning views of the bay and Clearwater Pass.

And for happy hour sunsets, head to Jimmy’s Crow’s Nest, a rooftop bar with 360-degree views of the beach and beyond and an impressive drink list.

Things to do at Clearwater Beach

Bask in the sun on America’s Beach

Beach. No trip to Clearwater Beach is complete without relaxing on America’s best beaches! Sugar-soft white sand, warm Arabian Gulf waters, and fiery sunsets are just a few reasons why millions of travelers named Clearwater Beach their favorite beach in TripAdvisor’s 2016, 2018, and 2019 Traveler’s Choice. Set aside at least a half-day to soak up the warm Florida sun on our award-winning beaches.

Get Inspired at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater Marine Aquarium will take you into the world of marine life rescue. Dive in and learn about their ongoing recovery, rehabilitation, and release work. Enhance your trip with a guided tour or a boat ride, and don’t miss their daily educational presentations!

Catch a fiery sunset at Pier 60 Sunset Celebration

The perfect way to end the day? Catch an incredible sunset on the beach! Better yet, head to Pier 60 for a sunset celebration. You’ll see a host of acts on any given night, including fire eaters, escape artists, stilt walkers, and more! Plus, local artisans line the pier where you can pick up the perfect souvenir of your trip. And all this in the rays of the passing day.

Sink your teeth into a Snapper Sandwich at Frenchy’s

We’re known for our grouper here on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and few do it better than Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill. With their fleet delivering fresh fish daily, they have the tastiest fish for their famous mouth-watering sea bass sandwich. Take a seat on the beach and sink your teeth into this flaky and delicious dish. We promise you won’t regret it.

Accommodation Options in Clearwater Beach

No matter which hotel you choose in Clearwater Beach, you’ll be just steps from the Arabian Gulf and close to entertainment and dining options.

Were you looking for a luxury beach resort?

The SandPearl Beach Resort

It is packed with amenities ranging from sparkling pools to a 12,000square-foot spa and world-class restaurants.

SandPearl’s sister property, Opal Sands, offers the same luxurious amenities to the south. The beach steps away, though it can be hard to leave the Bayview Pool House.

The crowning glory of this barrier island community is the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach, a towering pink building with large, well-appointed suites with views of the beach or boardwalk.

Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach

It is just to the north, with contemporary furnishings and a long list of amenities, including a full-service spa. Although, Families will love this hotel, which offers sea creature-themed rooms with bunk beds.

If a more relaxed hotel suits your style and budget, head to Shephard’s Beach Resort, which caters to youngsters. Its rooms are elegant, with magnificent views, and also the beach bars offer cocktails, live music and impressive sunsets.

Another modest option is the Palm Pavilion Inn, a vintage Art Deco-style boutique hotel next to the iconic restaurant of the same name.

Another gem hidden in plain sight on Mandalay Avenue is Pier House 60, where cheerful rooms overlook the Bay or Waterfront, while Jimmy’s Crow’s Nest rooftop bar beckons with an up-and-coming sunset show.

You’ll also find some very affordable hotels like Enchanted Inn & Gulfside Cottages and Royal North Beach. Although, Both offer rentals within walking distance of the beach and a quiet getaway if that’s what you’re looking for.

Best Beach in the US

Clearwater Beach has been repeatedly voted the best beach by various organizations and has earned a reputation as an ideal vacation spot for people of all ages worldwide. And also, the Clearwater Beach has something for everyone, from some of the best seafood restaurants Florida’s Gulf Coast offers, to recreational activities including boating, fishing, and parasailing, to first-class hotels and resorts! Families, as well as couples and young people, relax here.

Two hours before sunset on the Gulf of Mexico, people flock to Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach to greet the Florida sunset. Come and celebrate as local artisans and artisans offer handmade treasures and street performers amaze with impressive feats of craftsmanship. As you dance to live music from the Pier 60 pavilion.

We hope you’ll join us in celebrating sunset at Clearwater Beach!