Clearwater Beach, Florida, is a renowned coastal destination located on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, west of Tampa and north of St. Petersburg in Pinellas County [1] [3]. It is celebrated for its 2.5 miles (4 km) of pristine white sand beaches and clear blue waters [3]. The beach has consistently received high accolades, including being named the nation's #1 beach by Trip Advisor in 2018 and the best beach in the United States and sixth-best in the world by TripAdvisor in February 2019 [1] [3].

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The area boasts a humid subtropical to tropical savanna climate, with an annual mean temperature around 75°F (24°C) [3]. Summers are hot and humid with frequent thunderstorms, while winters are warm and drier [3]. The wet season typically occurs from June to September, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the annual precipitation [3]. As of today, September 3, 2025, the weather forecast for Clearwater Beach indicates temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to high 80s Fahrenheit, with a chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the week [5].

Clearwater Beach offers a wide array of activities and attractions for visitors. Pier 60 is a central hub, featuring a playground, snack bar, and a long fishing pier [1] [3]. It is also home to the nightly "Sunsets at Pier 60" celebration, which includes street performers, musical acts, and local artisans [1] [3] [4]. For marine enthusiasts, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a must-visit, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick and injured marine animals, and is famously known for being the home of Winter, the bottlenose dolphin featured in the movie Dolphin Tale [1] [3] [6]. The aquarium recently welcomed four new rough-toothed dolphins and features new exhibits like "Tales of Winter the Dolphin" and "BayCare Kids Check Up" [6].

Beyond the main beach, visitors can explore Caladesi Island, recognized as the nation's best beach by Dr. Beach in 2008, and Sand Key Park, which offers picnic areas, a dog park, and nature trails [1]. Water activities abound, including parasailing, jet ski rentals, dolphin-watching tours, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and deep-sea fishing charters [1] [3]. Other family-friendly attractions include Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center, and various museums [1].

The area provides diverse dining options, from seafood favorites like Frenchy's Rockaway Grill and Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar to upscale experiences at Caretta on the Gulf [1] [4]. Accommodations range from luxury resorts such as the Sandpearl Resort and Opal Sands Resort to family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, many within walking distance of the beach [1] [4]. The Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, for instance, is located on 10 acres of beach property, footsteps from Pier 60, and offers amenities like private cabanas and a tiki bar [2].

Transportation around Clearwater Beach is convenient, with the Clearwater Jolley Trolley providing service up and down the beach, connecting to nearby attractions and neighborhoods [1] [3]. The beach is approximately 20 miles (30 km) from Tampa International Airport (TPA) and 25 miles (40 km) from downtown Tampa, with St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) also in close proximity [1] [3]. The drive from Orlando typically takes about two hours, making it a manageable day trip [1].

The best time to visit Clearwater Beach is generally during the spring months (March to May) when the weather is warm but not excessively hot, and crowds are smaller [1]. Fall is also a pleasant time to visit [1]. The area hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Sugar Sand Festival and the ongoing nightly sunset celebrations at Pier 60 [1].

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