Clearwater, FL

Travel Guide

A crowded beach with people walking along the shore and buildings in the background.
A beach with a vintage telescope.
A crowded beach with people walking and swimming, with buildings and palm trees in the background.
A river with a boat docked at a pier, surrounded by greenery and palm trees.
A pathway leading to a sports field with a fence, surrounded by trees and a clear sky.

See the cradle of Scientology, visit the famous bottlenose dolphins from Dolphin Tale and try water sports at the stunning beaches.

Clearwater is a delightful beach town with all types of water sports activities and an entertaining pier area. It is also known across the globe as the headquarters of the mysterious and controversial Church of Scientology. Sunbathe on the gorgeous beaches and learn about the notorious religion of Tom Cruise and John Travolta in this intriguing town.

Among the town’s highlights is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which is known for rescuing injured sea creatures. See the famous bottlenose dolphins Winter and Hope from the Dolphin Tale movie. Winter has a prosthetic replacement for her tail, which was caught in a crab trap line.

Get around the town center via the Suncoast Beach Trolley. Visit the majestic building of the Church of Scientology, which the religion considers a 21st-century cathedral. Drop in at the Church of Scientology Information Center to learn more about this enigmatic belief system.

Enjoy the picturesque scenery in the region while you practice your swing at Cove Cay Golf Course. Enjoy a meal at its grill restaurant against a picturesque backdrop of the lake and the bay. Bring your kids to Congo River Golf – Clearwater for a course of miniature golf that leads through waterfalls, caves and tropical rainforests.

Take advantage of the year-round warm weather with a trip to Pier 60. Note that August is particularly wet, with afternoon storms. Watch the lightning during tempests and the sunset on a clear day. At Clearwater Beach rent Jet Skis and kayaks to take out on the water.

The town is located on the western outskirts of Tampa in the western section of central Florida. Fly to the Saint Petersburg Clearwater International Airport or the Tampa International Airport, a 30-minute drive east across Old Tampa Bay from the town. See some of Florida’s other famous nearby towns, such as Largo, St. Petersburg and Palm Harbor.

Clearwater is a haven for golfers, beachgoers and Scientologists.

Where to stay in Clearwater

Find the best Clearwater areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Clearwater
Learn more about Clearwater
A yellow building with a sign that reads "Capitol Theatre".

Downtown Clearwater

While visiting Downtown Clearwater, you might make a stop by sights like Coachman Park and Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre.

A sign for Jack Russell Stadium in the City of Clearwater, with a view of the stadium and surrounding palm trees.

North Greenwood

While North Greenwood might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Jack Russell Stadium and Clearwater Country Club.

A marina with boats docked, palm trees, and buildings in the background.

Feather Sound

Beaches, restaurants, and shopping are just a few things travelers enjoy about Feather Sound. Check out Tampa Bay or Feather Sound Country Club while you're exploring the area.

A pier extending into the sea at sunset with a clear sky.

Spring Branch

When in Spring Branch, you can plan a visit to TD Ballpark and Dunedin Marina, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A coastal cityscape with high-rise buildings, palm trees, and a beach at sunset.

Lake Bellevue

Though Lake Bellevue might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Coachman Park and Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre.

Extended Stay America Suites Clearwater Carillon Park

Extended Stay America Suites Clearwater Carillon Park

2.5 out of 5
2311 Ulmerton Rd Clearwater FL
$62 nightly
The price is $70 total per night from Oct 10 to Oct 11
$70 total
Oct 10 - Oct 11
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Clearwater. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
Extended Stay America Suites Clearwater Carillon Park
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Clearwater Central

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Clearwater Central

3 out of 5
Clearwater FL
$93 nightly
The price is $105 total per night from Oct 7 to Oct 8
$105 total
Oct 7 - Oct 8
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Clearwater. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,905 reviews)
"The property was in good shape and the room was very clean . The breakfast was very well maintained ,restocked on a regular basis and the breakfast staff cleaned up the areas very quickly"

Reviewed on Oct 3, 2026

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Clearwater Central
Comfort Inn & Suites Clearwater South

Comfort Inn & Suites Clearwater South

3 out of 5
5000 Lake Blvd Clearwater FL
$89 nightly
The price is $101 total per night from Oct 25 to Oct 26
$101 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Clearwater. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
Comfort Inn & Suites Clearwater South
See all 938 properties in Clearwater
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
InTown Suites Extended Stay Clearwater FL

InTown Suites Extended Stay Clearwater FL

2.5 out of 5
2833 ROOSEVELT BLVD Clearwater FL
Stay at this aparthotel in Clearwater. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Cove Cay Golf Club and Tampa Bay Grand Prix ...
InTown Suites Extended Stay Clearwater FL
Family Getaway – 4-BR House w/ Parking & Patio

Family Getaway – 4-BR House w/ Parking & Patio

Clearwater FL
Stay at this vacation home in Clearwater. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions Pier 60 Park and Clearwater Beach are located ...
Family Getaway – 4-BR House w/ Parking & Patio
Clearwater Dream! Singles Pickleball, Heated Pool

Clearwater Dream! Singles Pickleball, Heated Pool

Clearwater FL
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Clearwater. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Sand Key Park and ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (22 reviews)
"Kids loved all the activities in the backyard, especially availability to do so at night, lighting, and the set up created a great ambience"

Reviewed on Sep 5, 2026

Clearwater Dream! Singles Pickleball, Heated Pool
See all properties in Clearwater
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Clearwater attractions

A building with a sign reading "Bright House Field" and a set of stairs leading up to it.

BayCare Ballpark

8.0/10 (206 reviews)
Catch an event at BayCare Ballpark during your trip to Clearwater. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this family-friendly area.
See properties

Things to do

Starlite Infinity Evening Yacht Cruise Clearwater

Starlite Infinity Evening Yacht Cruise Clearwater

$37
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Starlite Infinity Evening Yacht Cruise Clearwater
Guaranteed Dolphin Sighting Tour on Tropics Boat Tours

Guaranteed Dolphin Sighting Tour on Tropics Boat Tours

$37
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Guaranteed Dolphin Sighting Tour on Tropics Boat Tours
Clearwater Beach: Dolphin & Island Sandbar Cruise

Clearwater Beach: Dolphin & Island Sandbar Cruise

$28
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Clearwater Beach: Dolphin & Island Sandbar Cruise
Shell Key Island bird's eye view

Shell Key Island Excursion

$58
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Shell Key Island Excursion
Starlite Horizon Evening Yacht St. Pete Beach

Starlite Horizon Evening Yacht St. Pete Beach

$41
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Starlite Horizon Evening Yacht St. Pete Beach
Suncoast Sailing's Sunset Sailing Experience!

Suncoast Sailing's Sunset Sailing Experience!

$70
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Suncoast Sailing's Sunset Sailing Experience!
See all activities in Clearwater

Frequently asked questions

Is Clearwater worth visiting?
Clearwater is worth visiting for its diverse dining, offering North American and Italian cuisine. Travelers can also enjoy standout attractions like Ruth Eckerd Hall and BayCare Ballpark, with convenient bus access around the area.
When is the best time to visit Clearwater?
The best time to visit Clearwater is from November through March, when travelers can enjoy mild temperatures. For fewer crowds and better value, the warmer months of June through September are a good bet, offering a quieter experience for travelers.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Clearwater?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Clearwater depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Clearwater offers attractions like The BayCare Sound, Coachman Park, and the Church of Scientology.

What is Clearwater known for?
Clearwater is known for its performing arts venue, Ruth Eckerd Hall, and sports facilities like BayCare Ballpark and Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex. Travelers can also find a strong North American food culture throughout its neighborhoods, including Downtown Clearwater.
What is a good itinerary length for Clearwater?
A good itinerary length for Clearwater is two to three days to explore Downtown Clearwater and enjoy activities like a Sunset Cruise or Axe Throwing. An extended stay of four to five days allows for more time to attend events at Ruth Eckerd Hall or BayCare Ballpark, or embark on a 3-Day Zigzag Coast Adventure. See Clearwater Activities.
How do you get around Clearwater?
In Clearwater, rental cars are available in areas like Downtown Clearwater and Feather Sound, offering flexibility to explore. Travelers can also use the bus service, with a key stop at St. Petersburg Station. Rideshare services provide another convenient way to get around the area.
What are the top things to do in and around Clearwater?
Clearwater offers a mix of water adventures, unique recreational activities, and local entertainment for travelers.

  • See a beautiful sunset on a cruise in Clearwater
  • Experience a thrilling parasailing adventure at Clearwater Beach
  • Enjoy a water trike rental at Clearwater Beach
  • Try an axe throwing guided experience at Hatchet Hangout
  • Visit Tampa Bay Grand Prix for some high-speed fun.

How do I plan a trip to Clearwater?
To plan your trip to Clearwater, search Expedia for hotels and book flights and rental cars in advance. Explore Downtown Clearwater and consider activities like a 2 Hour Sunset Cruise or a 90 Minute Axe Throwing Guided Experience. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to best enjoy your visit.
What cuisines can you find in Clearwater?
In Clearwater you can find Greek cuisine, with dishes like gyros, souvlaki, and moussaka. Travelers can also enjoy Tex Mex options such as tacos and burritos, Italian favorites like pasta and pizza, and a variety of Asian dishes including Chinese, Japanese, and Thai.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Clearwater?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Clearwater by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Clearwater with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Clearwater trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Clearwater?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Clearwater can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Clearwater trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Clearwater trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Clearwater trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Clearwater trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Clearwater?
If it's your first trip to Clearwater, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Clearwater hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Clearwater hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Clearwater

A waterfront cityscape with modern high-rise buildings, palm trees, and a bridge over the water.

St. Petersburg

Silhouettes of people at sunset, a sailboat on the water, and a distant shoreline.

Dunedin

A large medical center with a yellow building, palm trees, and a parking lot.

Largo

A park with a large tree, a winding path, and lush greenery.

Pinellas Park

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