12 Best Beaches Near Clearwater, FL
Clearwater, Florida, is a sunny, fantastic entryway to some of the United States’ most beautiful beaches.
It has a world-famous beach of its own and is surrounded by other beautiful beaches and coastlines.
You can satisfy your wanderlust in Clearwater at one of the several beaches, depending on whether you’re looking for excitement or a peaceful retreat.
Check out our compilation of the top beaches in the Clearwater, FL, area and start organizing your trip to the sand immediately.
- Honeymoon Island State Park
This state park covers 2,785 acres and features a stunning 4-mile stretch of white sand beach.
Why We Recommend This Beach
This state park contains one of the most beautiful beaches, with its magnificent shoreline and azure waves.
In addition, the park has a nature center, a picnic space, and a 2.5-mile hiking track.
In addition, there is a concession with a gift shop and an assortment of snacks.
Expert Tip
The sunsets on this island are legendary.
Brilliant oranges, blues, purples, and pinks illuminate the sky as the sun sinks below the horizon.
- Caladesi Island State Park
Visitors are drawn to this state park on Caladesi Island because of its beautiful three-mile coastline.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Have you been looking for a quiet, undeveloped beach in the Clearwater area?
Please visit Caladesi Island State Park for a day.
This state park is the perfect place for a restful and rejuvenating beach getaway, thanks to its tranquil atmosphere and untouched natural beauty.
Moreover, it has facilities that will make your travel convenient, albeit to a lesser extent than you may hope.
Expert Tip
It is possible to reach Caladesi Island via ferry from the Dunedin Causeway.
But if you want an adventurous adventure, you may take a kayaking trip out of Dunedin and reach the island that way.
And if that weren’t enough, you can also explore the island’s mangrove tunnels by kayak.
- Clearwater Beach
Over 2 miles in length, this is Clearwater’s busiest and most colorful beach.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Clearwater Beach is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful waters, dazzling white sands, and convenient facilities.
This world-class beach is always buzzing with activity, from volleyball games to late-night events.
It’s also the best beach in the area for swimming due to the clear waters and the presence of lifeguards.
Did we mention that it is often considered Florida’s finest beach community?
Expert Tip
Visit Pier 60 at sunset for a daily celebration.
These social events will interest you in many ways, from the talented performers to the skilled craftspeople that set up shop there.
- Fort De Soto Park
This park is open all year and was given recognition on the US National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Why We Recommend This Beach
One of the best Clearwater beach trips with kids is visiting Fort De Soto Park.
It’s the most family-friendly beach in Clearwater because the ocean is usually quiet and mild.
Moreover, there is a pirate-themed playground with some spooky exciting rooms.
Expert Tip
Visit North Beach #1 at low tide to sift over the sand bar for shells and sand dollars.
You can also go kayaking, hiking, or biking to see the remainder of the park.
In addition, if you’re looking to liven up your vacation, plan a day trip to one of the local lake shores.
- Sand Key Park
Sand Key Park, located 4.2 miles away, is the nearest beach to Clearwater.
Why We Recommend This Beach
If you’re looking for an alternative to Clearwater Beach, you might want to check out Sand Key Park instead.
Not only is this pivotal park great for families, but it also has numerous high-quality and helpful amenities.
The park has seasonal lifeguards, children’s equipment, and shady cabanas for a carefree day in the sun.
You can go surfing or kayaking in the park’s turquoise seas if you’re looking for some adventure on your beach vacation.
Expert Tip
Heron, egret, and osprey are just a few birds you might see while hiking the nature trails.
- Sunset Beach
Tucked away at the southern edge of Treasure Island, this stretch is known for its breathtaking sunsets.
Why We Recommend This Beach
This intimate beach is well-known for its lively, backyard-like vibe and welcomes visitors of all hues.
Explore this area with your loved ones or alone, and you’re guaranteed a great time.
In addition, there are tiki huts, unique homes, and beachfront bars with a laid-back, hippie attitude all along the shoreline.
Expert Tip
Take in the sights of the ocean and the passing boats as you stroll down the boardwalk that stretches for half a mile.
And if you like fishing, you may bring fresh catches from the sea.
- Madeira Beach
This Gulf of Mexico hangout, affectionately known to locals as Mad Beach, is known for its delicious seafood.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Madeira Beach has earned its reputation as Florida’s “grouper capital.”
After all, the local grouper and other seafood are why people flock to this beachfront neighborhood.
And yet, would you believe it?
There’s more to do and see in Madeira Beach than just fish and eat.
These gorgeous beaches stretch for over two and a half miles, providing the perfect setting for a rejuvenating seaside retreat.
Further, it hosts several fascinating and unique events, such as the John’s Pass Seafood Festival.
Expert Tip
Explore John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk for a few hours.
This rustic beachfront complex contains more than one hundred eateries and shops selling various goods.
You may also board a stylish floating tiki bar, rent a jet ski, or embark on a dolphin trip from this location.
- Redington Shores
This resort town, located between St. Pete Beach and Clearwater, captivates travelers with its unique local atmosphere.
Why We Recommend This Beach
It looks small, but don’t underestimate it!
This 3.5-acre beach may be small, but it certainly doesn’t lack entertainment.
A thrilling water crossing adventure is yours for renting in a paddleboat or a wave runner.
It’s also possible to take it easy on the beach or go deep-sea fishing aboard a chartered boat.
Expert Tip
Visit the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary to get acquainted with the local fauna.
Constitution Park and Thelma Spitzer Park are two great places to take kids if you happen to be in town.
- Shell Key Preserve
This 1,828-acre marine sanctuary is home to many essential and fascinating ecosystems.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Shell Key Preserve is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
It’s a haven for sea turtles and migratory, wintering, and breeding birds.
The dazzling dunes and pristine waters of the preserve are sure to impress.
You can get a camping permit and spend the night under a sky with stars.
Expert Tip
This preserve has no facilities, unlike the other beaches on this list.
There isn’t any restroom, shower, or even concession available.
Be sure to bring supplies like food and water if you plan on visiting there before you get there.
Visit it on a weekday first thing in the morning if you want to experience the island like a castaway.
- Pass-a-Grille Beach
In the southernmost part of St. Pete Beach, you’ll find a laid-back community that feels like it’s straight out of Old Florida.
Why We Recommend This Beach
One of the most picturesque and convenient beach destinations near Clearwater is Pass-a-Grille.
This beach has a lot of exciting things to photograph, from the turquoise ocean to the old buildings.
For those seeking a more low-key beach experience, this is the place to go because there are fewer people and fewer buildings.
The neighborhood also has the ideal beach for sampling authentic old Florida food.
Expert Tip
Stop by Paradise Grille for a cup of coffee on the beach to get your day off to a great start.
You may go swimming and sunning all day, then head back to this restaurant for a delicious meal and a breathtaking sunset.
You may enjoy the sunset from the same breathtaking vantage point at the Hurricane restaurant’s rooftop bar.
- Treasure Island
Native Americans arrived in Florida and settled on Treasure Island around 9,000 years ago.
As of late, it’s been recognized as a prime destination for a weekend beach getaway from Clearwater.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Treasure Island, Florida, a hub of coastal activity, has some great beaches.
You may do anything from parasailing and snorkeling to swimming and collecting shells at this beach.
More importantly, it is a beach that is suitable for children.
Younger beachgoers can enjoy a break from the sand and surf at the beach’s designated playground.
Expert Tip
The Sand Ovations is only one of several notable and entertaining festivals held annually on Treasure Island (sandcastle festival).
Look into the celebrations that take place on Treasure Island.
- St. Pete Beach
This enchanted beachfront retreat features a soft and sandy 5-mile coastline, making it an ideal location for water sports.
Why We Recommend This Beach
This glitzy and vibrant strip should not be left off any list of the most incredible beaches close to Clearwater, Florida.
This beach is perfect for adventurers because it offers many water sports.
As a result of its amenities, mild waves, and warm Gulf waters, it is also very family-friendly.
Expert Tip
Unwind at one of the many beachfront pubs after a day of swimming, sunning, and sandcastle building.
Undertown, PCI Beach Bar, and Jimmy B’s are some of our go-to’s in this area.
