Clearwater beach is one of Florida’s most popular vacation spots. Because of our world-renown white sandy beaches, our extensive recreational opportunities, including the largest recreational fishing fleet on the West Coast of Florida, walking distance to restaurants and attractions, and nature-based attractions.
Clearwater Beach is the Best City Beach on the Gulf of Mexico according to Dr. Stephen Leatherman (“Dr. Beach”), a Florida International University professor who has been ranking America’s beaches for nine years. USATODAY.com readers ranked Clearwater Beach in their 2001 Top 10 list of Best Beaches from Maine to Hawaii. Caladesi Island and Sand Key beaches have been named among the Best Natural Beaches in the United States. Caladesi Island State Park is currently ranked #1, primarily for its water quality, rustic charm, clean beaches, on-site amenities and its emphasis on wildlife. Pinellas County is the only Florida destination which can say it has two of the top 10 beaches (Fort DeSoto Park is ranked seventh). Conde Nast Traveler has also recognized Clearwater Beach as the best city beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked “best beach” by Tampa Bay Magazine.
