About two hours will get you from Orlando to Clearwater Beach on the Sunshine State's Gulf Coast. Due to its reputation as one of the nicest beaches in the United States, Clearwater Beach attracts many visitors every year.
The beaches in Clearwater are famous for their powdery white sand and calm, turquoise seas. Sunsets on Clearwater Beach are among the most beautiful in all of Florida. Clearwater Beach is a popular addition to Orlando itineraries for tourists in Florida. As such, I went to Clearwater Beach not too long ago to report on the finest ways to enjoy it after a covid.
Traffic
There are some tricky spots to navigate when on Clearwater Beach. Considering it was a Saturday in Clearwater Beach and not the height of summer, the congestion we encountered was surprising. Allow half an hour to drive across the Causeway to Clearwater Beach.
The Jolley Trolley provides an alternative to driving and parking on Clearwater Beach. Some hotels may provide guests with a complimentary Jolley Trolley pass as an added amenity. The Clearwater Beach Ferry is an additional mode of transportation. The boat is cheap, but you must plan and be there early to leave on time.
Parking
There are only a few spaces for parking. If you've been stuck in Clearwater Beach traffic, you'll have to look for parking in the lot. No of the time of day, parking prices may easily reach $50. The greatest public parking is often available between 7:00 and 8:00 in the morning. If you're looking to save money on parking without sacrificing convenience, stay at a hotel on Clearwater Beach that offers to park in a nearby town and take the trolley or Clearwater Beach Ferry.
Crowds
When it comes to beach towns, Clearwater Beach is not one of them. People regularly cross the street in the middle of traffic, which may get rather congested. After all, it is one of the United States' most visited tourist destinations.
If you aren't staying at a resort with a private beach, you may expect to deal with people and additional noise on Clearwater Beach since it attracts a younger audience that provides a party scene. Vacationing on Sand Key or Honeymoon Island, both close to Clearwater Beach, will provide you with the peace you're looking for on the beach.
Beaches
Clearwater Beach is a popular destination on Florida's Gulf Coast due to its proximity to the white, powdery beach and calm waters. In contrast to Florida's East Coast beaches on the Atlantic Ocean, the waves here are often mild, and the water temperature is higher.
The sand at Clearwater Beach is normally in good shape. The beach's width means that guests have more room to sprawl out, although it may take some exploring to locate the perfect area to spend the day.
The daily cost to hire an umbrella, lounge chair, and wind tent on Clearwater Beach averages around $35. Few dining options exist in more remote places, notably near Sand Key and Honeymoon Island. Having a cooler with snacks and beverages for the day is smart.
Restaurants
Several restaurants on Clearwater Beach, many of which provide al fresco eating, catering to virtually every taste imaginable. There is a wide variety of dining alternatives, from fast food chains to upscale establishments, and most appeal to beachgoers.
Most dining establishments are located on the other side of the beach boardwalk. However, there are a few waterfront venues to choose from. While Frenchy's on the Water is one of Clearwater Beach's most well-known waterside eateries, other options exist.
Activities
There is a wide selection of fun things to do and water sports to try at Clearwater Beach. It's common for visitors to Clearwater Beach to take part in activities like fishing charters, private boat trips, sightseeing tours, and Segway tours.
As the site of the annual Sugar Sand Festival and the weekly Sunset Festival, Pier 60 is an essential stop for any visitor to Clearwater Beach. A popular place to visit and a fun way to spend the day, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium may be reached by ferry if you'd rather avoid driving there.
Lodging Options
There is a wide variety of places to stay in Clearwater, including resorts, condos, and even some quaint old hotels. If you're looking for peace on Clearwater Beach or Sand Key, go no further than one resort with its own private beach.
Stay closer to Pier 60 if you're visiting Clearwater Beach for the nightlife and entertainment. During the busier times of the year, reservations might take time to come by at the last minute. Make your reservations as far as possible to get the best rate and room selection.