Clearwater, Florida, is a gem on the Gulf Coast, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and an array of fun activities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something exciting to do in Clearwater.
💡 We added a family rating to each activity so you can see if it’s also great for kids.
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Browse the best tours in Clearwater on GetYourGuide
Now, let’s dive into 16 amazing activities that will make your time in Clearwater unforgettable!
Clearwater Sunset Cruise
- Best Time: Late afternoon to evening, to catch the magnificent sunset.
- Family Rating: Wonderful for all ages, especially romantic for couples.
- How Long: About 2-3 hours, perfect for an evening outing.
- Price Range: Moderate, varies with cruise type.
Taking a sunset cruise in Clearwater is like stepping into a real-life postcard. The sky turns into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples, making it a must-see.
Why is it great?
Clearwater’s Sunset Cruise offers a unique blend of tranquility and beauty. It’s an escape from the bustling city life. You can witness dolphins playfully swimming alongside the boat, adding to the magical experience.
The gentle waves and the cool sea breeze make the journey incredibly soothing. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photographs.
What is special?
The uniqueness of this cruise lies in the spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico’s sunset. It’s not just about the destination, but the journey; sailing through the serene waters as the sun dips below the horizon is an unforgettable experience.
Additionally, many cruises offer live music and dining options, enhancing the overall ambiance.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- Best Time: Morning to avoid crowds, year-round.
- Family Rating: Excellent for kids, educational and fun.
- How Long: 2-4 hours, depending on interest levels.
- Price Range: Affordable, with discounts for children and seniors.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is not just an aquarium; it’s a marine life rescue center where you can meet inspiring sea creatures.
Why is it great?
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium stands out for its focus on rescue, rehabilitation, and release. It’s home to famous marine animals, including dolphins. Interactive exhibits and educational talks offer insights into marine conservation.
It’s not just entertaining but also an enlightening experience for visitors of all ages.
What is special?
This aquarium is special because of its star resident, Winter the dolphin, known for her prosthetic tail. The story of Winter is not just heartwarming but also a testament to the advances in marine animal care and prosthetics.
The aquarium’s dedication to rehabilitation and environmental education sets it apart from traditional aquatic centers.
Go on a Dolphin Adventure
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for active dolphins.
- Family Rating: Exciting and educational, great for all ages.
- How Long: Usually 1-2 hours, perfect for a quick adventure.
- Price Range: Moderate, depending on the tour company.
Embark on a dolphin adventure in Clearwater to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
Why is it great?
Dolphin adventures in Clearwater offer an up-close and personal experience with these intelligent marine animals. These tours are not only thrilling but also educational, providing insights into the life of dolphins.
The calm waters of Clearwater make it ideal for spotting dolphins in their natural surroundings. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
What is special?
What makes these dolphin adventures unique is the opportunity to see dolphins engaging in natural behaviors. The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating facts about these creatures. Additionally, some tours use eco-friendly boats, making it a responsible and sustainable way to enjoy wildlife.
Go Kayaking in Clearwater’s Mangroves
- Best Time: Morning to avoid the heat and enjoy calm waters
- Family Rating: Great for families with older kids who enjoy outdoor adventures
- How Long: 2-3 hours for a leisurely exploration
- Price Range: Moderate
Kayaking through Clearwater’s mangroves is an exhilarating experience. Glide through serene waters and discover Florida’s natural beauty up close.
Why is it great?
Exploring the mangroves by kayak offers a unique perspective of Clearwater’s natural landscapes. It’s peaceful, allowing you to connect with nature and escape the hustle of city life.
As you paddle, you’ll likely encounter a variety of wildlife, including birds and marine creatures, making it a memorable adventure. Plus, kayaking is a great workout and can be enjoyed at your own pace.
What is special?
The mangrove tunnels are a standout feature. Paddling under their canopy, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a different world. The tranquility and shade they provide are unparalleled, offering a magical experience. Plus, the chance to see wildlife up close in their natural habitat is truly special.
Discover Clearwater’s Historic District
- Best Time: Anytime, but especially lovely in the late afternoon
- Family Rating: Ideal for families who love history and architecture
- How Long: About 1-2 hours for a walking tour
- Price Range: Free to explore on your own
A stroll through Clearwater’s Historic District is like stepping back in time, with its charming streets and rich history.
Why is it great?
The Historic District in Clearwater offers a delightful contrast to the beachside attractions. It’s filled with beautifully preserved buildings that tell the story of the city’s past.
Walking through the district, you’ll feel the charm and character of old Florida. It’s a great way to learn about the local culture and history while enjoying a leisurely stroll.
What is special?
The district’s architecture is its standout feature. From quaint bungalows to grand historic buildings, each structure has its own story. The area also hosts several cultural events throughout the year, offering a glimpse into the community’s rich heritage and traditions.
Visit Clearwater Beach and Pier 60

- Best Time: Late afternoon for sunsets and cooler temperatures.
- Family Rating: Perfect for families, with activities for all ages.
- How Long: Half-day to full-day, depending on activities.
- Price Range: Free to visit, various activities have different costs.
Clearwater Beach and Pier 60 are the heartbeats of Clearwater, offering something for everyone.
Why is it great?
Clearwater Beach is renowned for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers. Pier 60, a famous fishing pier and recreational park, offers daily festivals with artisans and street performers.
The beach is also great for water sports, from jet skiing to paddle boarding. And don’t miss the spectacular sunsets!
What is special?
Pier 60 is special because of its daily sunset celebration. It’s a cultural experience that includes live music, crafts, and street performances. The pier is a hub of activity, both during the day for fishing enthusiasts and at night for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a place where memories are made.
Explore Sand Key Park
- Best Time: Morning to avoid heat, ideal in spring and fall.
- Family Rating: Great for nature lovers and families.
- How Long: 2-3 hours to explore and relax.
- Price Range: Free entrance, parking fees may apply.
Sand Key Park is a hidden gem in Clearwater, offering peaceful beaches and a beautiful park.
Why is it great?
Sand Key Park is a perfect blend of beach and park, providing a quieter alternative to Clearwater Beach. Its natural beauty is ideal for picnicking, swimming, and wildlife watching.
The park also has a playground and picnic areas, making it a family-friendly destination. Additionally, its conservation area is home to nesting sea turtles and birds.
What is special?
The special aspect of Sand Key Park is its commitment to the environment. It plays a crucial role in protecting native wildlife and habitats. The park’s unspoiled beaches are a haven for endangered sea turtles, offering a rare opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural setting. It’s a place where conservation meets recreation.
Shop Til You Drop at Westfield Countryside Mall
- Best Time: Weekdays to avoid crowds, year-round.
- Family Rating: Great for shopping enthusiasts of all ages.
- How Long: 3-4 hours, depending on your shopping spree.
- Price Range: Varied, from affordable to high-end.
Westfield Countryside Mall is a shopping paradise in Clearwater, offering a wide range of stores and entertainment options.
Why is it great?
This mall isn’t just about shopping; it’s a complete entertainment complex. With over 150 stores, you can find everything from fashion to gadgets.
The mall also features a movie theater, ice-skating rink, and various dining options, making it a one-stop destination for fun. It’s perfect for escaping the Florida heat or finding that special souvenir.
What is special?
What’s special about Westfield Countryside Mall is its ice-skating rink, a unique feature for a shopping center in Florida. It offers a fun and unexpected activity for families and friends. The mall’s layout and design provide a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience. Plus, it regularly hosts events and activities, adding to its lively atmosphere.
Visit Celebration Station
- Best Time: Weekends for family fun, open year-round.
- Family Rating: Ideal for families with kids, lots of fun activities.
- How Long: 2-3 hours, perfect for an afternoon.
- Price Range: Moderate, pay-as-you-go for activities.
Celebration Station in Clearwater is a hub of fun and excitement, offering various attractions for all ages.
Why is it great?
Celebration Station is an amusement park that provides an array of activities, from go-karts and mini-golf to arcade games and batting cages. It’s a place where families can spend quality time and create lasting memories.
The park is well-maintained and offers something for every family member, ensuring a day full of laughter and joy.
What is special?
The special charm of Celebration Station lies in its variety of attractions. It’s not just an amusement park but a comprehensive family entertainment center. The mini-golf course is a highlight, set in a beautifully landscaped area with challenging holes.
Additionally, the park frequently updates its attractions, keeping the experience fresh and exciting.
Enjoy Mini Golf at Congo River Golf
- Best Time: Evening for cooler temperatures, open year-round.
- Family Rating: Fun for all ages, especially for kids and teens.
- How Long: 1-2 hours, ideal for a fun break.
- Price Range: Affordable, great value for a family outing.
Congo River Golf in Clearwater offers a unique mini-golf experience with an adventurous twist.
Why is it great?
Congo River Golf is not your average mini-golf course. It’s themed after the African Congo, complete with waterfalls, caves, and tropical landscapes. The course is challenging yet fun, making it enjoyable for both beginners and seasoned players.
It’s an excellent way for families to engage in friendly competition while enjoying the outdoors.
What is special?
What makes Congo River Golf special is its immersive theme and attention to detail. The course takes you on a journey through a Congo-like environment, complete with exotic decorations and ambient sounds.
Additionally, the facility offers other attractions like gemstone mining and an arcade, adding variety to the experience.
Visit Moccasin Lake Nature Park
- Best Time: Morning for wildlife viewing, beautiful in spring and fall.
- Family Rating: Perfect for nature enthusiasts and families.
- How Long: 1-3 hours, depending on how much you explore.
- Price Range: Free entrance, small fees for certain programs.
Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a serene escape in Clearwater, offering a glimpse into Florida’s natural beauty.
Why is it great?
Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a sanctuary for wildlife and native plants. The park features walking trails, boardwalks, and a variety of ecosystems from swamps to forests.
It’s an excellent spot for bird watching and encountering local wildlife. Educational programs and exhibits add to the experience, making it both fun and informative.
What is special?
The park’s environmental and energy education center is what sets it apart. It offers hands-on learning experiences about local ecosystems and conservation efforts. The center hosts various workshops and events, making it a hub for environmental education.
The park also rehabilitates injured birds of prey, providing a unique opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close.
Take a Cruise on the Calypso Queen
- Best Time: Evening for dinner cruises, beautiful at sunset.
- Family Rating: Enjoyable for all, especially for a unique dining experience.
- How Long: About 2-3 hours, perfect for a leisurely cruise.
- Price Range: Moderate to high, depending on cruise package.
The Calypso Queen Cruise is a vibrant and colorful journey on the waters of Clearwater.
Why is it great?
The Calypso Queen offers a tropical experience with its buffet-style meals and live entertainment. The cruise takes you around Clearwater’s beautiful coastline, offering stunning views.
It’s not just a cruise; it’s a party on the water, complete with music, dancing, and fun. The friendly crew and festive atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience.
What is special?
What’s special about the Calypso Queen is its Caribbean theme, bringing a touch of the tropics to Clearwater. The boat itself is brightly decorated, adding to the festive ambiance. The all-you-can-eat buffet features delicious Caribbean cuisine, making it a culinary adventure. Plus, the open-air observation deck offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Explore Cliff Stephens Park
- Best Time: Morning or late afternoon, ideal in cooler months.
- Family Rating: Great for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
- How Long: 1-3 hours, depending on activities.
- Price Range: Free, a natural and affordable outing.
Cliff Stephens Park in Clearwater is an outdoor haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Why is it great?
Cliff Stephens Park is known for its scenic beauty and variety of recreational activities. It features extensive trails for hiking and biking, a disc golf course, and ample space for picnics.
The park’s natural landscape, including lakes and forests, provides a peaceful retreat from the city. It’s a great place to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor sports.
What is special?
The park’s disc golf course is a highlight, attracting players of all skill levels. It’s a fun and challenging way to enjoy the outdoors. The park’s diverse habitats make it a prime spot for bird watching and encountering local wildlife.
Its commitment to preserving natural beauty while providing recreational opportunities makes it a unique destination.
Try a Craft Beer at Big Storm Brewing Co.
- Best Time: Evening for a relaxed atmosphere, open year-round.
- Family Rating: The beer tasting is for adults only, of course. However, it’s kid-friendly as there’s an outdoor patio area, which is great for kids.
- How Long: 1-2 hours, ideal for a tasting session.
- Price Range: Affordable, with a range of beer prices.
Big Storm Brewing Co. in Clearwater is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Why is it great?
Big Storm Brewing Co. is renowned for its wide selection of craft beers, each with its unique flavor profile. The brewery offers a cozy and welcoming environment, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Beer tasting sessions and tours provide an insight into the brewing process, making it an educational experience as well.
This brewery crafts a variety of beer styles (20). It has several locations and the one in Clearwater houses its main production facility and taproom with a large outdoor patio and full kitchen.
What is special?
What sets Big Storm Brewing Co. apart is its commitment to local ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. The brewery often experiments with new flavors, offering a constantly evolving menu.
Their signature beers have won several awards, reflecting their dedication to quality and taste.
Explore the District in Downtown Clearwater
- Best Time: Evening for dining and nightlife, year-round.
- Family Rating: Great for all, with diverse attractions.
- How Long: 2-4 hours, depending on interests.
- Price Range: Varied, from budget-friendly to upscale options.
Downtown Clearwater’s District is a bustling hub of culture, cuisine, and entertainment.
Why is it great?
The District in Downtown Clearwater offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. It’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The area hosts frequent events and festivals, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, shopping, or entertainment, the District has it all.
What is special?
The special appeal of the District lies in its cultural diversity. It’s a melting pot of cuisines, art, and music, reflecting the rich tapestry of Clearwater’s community. The area’s architecture, combining historical buildings with modern designs, adds to its unique charm. It’s a place where every visit offers something new and exciting.