“On a Clearwater Beach day, you can play forever” is the slogan of Clearwater, Florida.  Clearwater is the area's second-largest city covering much of the northern half of the Pinellas Peninsula including the barrier islands that make up Clearwater Beach. It is known for its miles of white sand beaches, accommodations, shopping, casual beach restaurants, and breathtaking sunsets. With mild temperatures year round, this city is paradise for anyone who enjoys the out of doors. The city has an average temperature of 73 degrees, and the water in the Gulf of Mexico is always warm  (as high as 85 degrees in the summer).  Any time of year is the perfect time to enjoy one of the many beautiful beaches along Florida’s Sun Coast.

The Clearwater Municipal Marina has the largest fishing fleet on the west coast of Florida with more than 50 commercial boats for leisure activities including sailing, diving, fishing, parasailing, sightseeing, casino gaming, dolphin watching and more.  If you love sunshine, a warm breeze, a great beach, and palm trees, Clearwater Beach is the place to be:  close to everything; yet not overcrowded.  Clearwater lies on a beautiful peninsula on Florida’s west coast. 

The “season”, beginning in mid-November and usually lasting through April, is the busiest time, as many visitors from colder climates arrive to enjoy the abundant sunshine, fine dining, and leisure activities.  Spring and fall are popular with those who prefer a slower pace.   A peaceful stroll on the beach is an option in any season.  Summer is a great time for families, as there are many wonderful and exciting activities for children and parents.  No matter what the time of year, visitors are welcomed and can expect balmy breezes, glorious sunshine, and a profusion of colorful tropical vegetation as a backdrop.  

Offering just about every water and beach activity imaginable, Clearwater Beach has been named the top city beach in the Gulf region  by the nation's foremost beach expert,  Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, Clearwater Beach features public parking and a host of facilities at Pier 60 Park.  Pier 60 Park features a family recreation complex on Clearwater's expansive beach with covered playgrounds, fishing, concessions, and family entertainment. The nightly “Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival”  celebrates each beautiful Gulf of Mexico sunset throughout the year.  This "street  festival” features artists, craftsmen, and musical performances  on Clearwater's famous fishing pier.

Nearby Pinellas County attractions are Heritage Village in Largo and  Fort DeSoto at St. Petersburg Beach.  On the grounds of Heritage Village is the Pinellas County Historical Museum. The Museum’s exhibits trace the history of Pinellas County from the Indian-Spanish period to contemporary times.  The natural pine and palmetto landscape of Heritage Village  includes a school, church, railroad depot, and store as well as a variety of historic homes. Among the homes are the McMullen-Coachman Log Cabin, the oldest existing structure in the County, and the magnificent Victorian-era House of Seven Gables.

Fort DeSoto is located just south of St. Petersburg at the entrance to Tampa Bay.  Built during the Spanish-American War, the fort hosts Here, re-enactors present dramatic skits portraying the action of the war which caused Fort De Soto to be built in 1898. One of the historic figures appearing in the production is Teddy Roosevelt. Authentic camp equipment, including medical and dental instruments,  and detailed meal preparation are also displayed.  Tours of the fort and museum are followed by period music and dances, including the Virginia reel. 

Within a short drive are some of the country’s most popular attractions.  In nearby Tampa, visitors can experience the thrill of plunging down a variety of roller coasters at Busch Gardens or take a refreshing plunge down a slide at Adventure Island Water Park.  Orlando is within a two hour drive for those wishing to visit world famous Disney World, Sea World or Universal Studios.

Clearwater is proud to host the Philadelphia Phillies’ spring training. The Phillies are the oldest continuous, one-name, one-city franchise in all of professional sports and have been in Clearwater since 1947.

Whatever brings you to this part of Florida, try to arrange to stay in Clearwater.  The beaches, the museums, the shopping, the sports, and, of course, the weather are the best!  Clearwater  is  just waiting to show its many diverse attributes, from virtually perfect weather to activities for all ages. Clearwater has  the welcome mat out for you.  Just bring the sunscreen!