Clearwater Beach: Beach, Pier 60 and Sunsets

Clearwater Beach lies at the western end of Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard, which is also known as State Road 60. When choosing a hotel in Clearwater Beach, it is worth considering the destination’s different features: bright white sand, the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and impressive sunsets define the beach. Restaurants and shops are close by, and Clearwater Beach is also easy to explore on foot.

Beach, access points and promenade

The beach combines a swimming and coastal experience with a well-developed surrounding area. Clearwater Beach is patrolled by lifeguards year-round. City employees clean and rake the beach daily. Three beach access mats make it easier to get around on the sand. Several beach access points are located along Mandalay Avenue and Gulfview Boulevard.

South of Pier 60, Beach Walk runs along the shore as a curving beach promenade. Lush landscaping and artistic design features shape its route, while offering unobstructed views of the beach. This makes it possible to combine a walk along the promenade with views of the coast, while nearby restaurants and shops provide further points of reference during your stay.

Pier 60 and evening entertainment

Pier 60 is a fishing pier measuring 1,080 feet. Fishing is one of the activities available there. The recreation park at the pier also has telescopes. When planning your visit, it helps to think of the pier and beach promenade as separate destinations.

The Sunsets at Pier 60 Nightly Celebration features street performers and local vendors. Its name refers to the sunset as the defining occasion for the evening festivities; the celebration combines entertainment and shopping opportunities. If you would rather spend the evening on the water, Clearwater Beach Marina offers scenic dinner cruises. Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise also departs from the marina and travels along the Intracoastal Waterway. Evening cruises are available, allowing visitors to watch the sunset over the Gulf.

Activities on and in the water

Beach activities include swimming, shell collecting and building sandcastles. Clearwater Beach also offers opportunities for parasailing, jet skiing and stand-up paddleboarding. Water sports activities can be booked at kiosks along the harbor on Coronado Drive. The options range from activities right on the beach to experiences on the water.

When planning your day, consider whether you mainly want to spend time at the beach, fish at Pier 60 or try water sports. The evening celebration at the pier and the cruises from the marina offer different ways to spend your time. You can choose among these experiences based on whether you want to stay on land or plan a trip on the water.

Search for hotels in Clearwater Beach

Next, take a look at the location and amenities specifically listed for each hotel. This lets you tailor your choice to your planned stay without conflating the beach and recreational options with the services offered by an individual hotel.

For the broader travel overview: Clearwater.