Things To Do In Clearwater, Florida, 5 day travel itinerary, brief history, weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites

April 9, 2024

Clearwater, Florida: A Paradise on the Gulf Coast

Clearwater, Florida, is a stunning beach town known for its pristine white sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, and abundance of marine life. Here’s a glimpse into what Clearwater offers visitors:

Brief History

Clearwater’s history stretches back to the Tocobaga people, who inhabited the area for thousands of years. In the 1800s, pioneers arrived and established fishing communities. The 20th century saw Clearwater’s transformation into a major tourist destination, fueled by the completion of the Courtney Campbell Causeway in 1924, which connected Clearwater to Tampa Bay.

Weather by Season

Clearwater enjoys a subtropical climate with warm to hot temperatures year-round. Here’s a basic breakdown of what to expect:

Winter (December – February): Average highs in the low 70s F (around 21°C), lows in the mid-50s F (around 13°C). Perfect weather for outdoor activities.
Spring (March – May): Average highs in the mid-80s F (around 29°C), lows in the upper 60s F (around 20°C). Warmer temperatures and increasing humidity.
Summer (June – August): Average highs in the upper 80s F (around 31°C), with high humidity and occasional rain showers. Hottest time to visit.
Fall (September – November): Average highs in the low 80s F (around 27°C), lows in the upper 60s F (around 20°C). Less humidity and comfortable temperatures.

5-Day Itinerary

Clearwater offers a variety of activities for all interests. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 5-day trip:

Day 1: Immerse yourself in the beach life. Relax on the pristine white sand of Clearwater Beach, swim in the clear waters, or try your hand at water sports like parasailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

Day 2: Explore the marine world at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. See rescued dolphins, otters, sea turtles, and other aquatic animals. Participate in educational programs or even behind-the-scenes tours.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Tampa. Visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a thrilling amusement park with animal encounters and shows. Explore the Tampa Riverwalk for scenic views, shops, and restaurants.

Day 4: Go on a shelling adventure at Honeymoon Island State Park. Kayak through mangrove forests, hike nature trails, or search for seashells on the secluded beaches.

Day 5: Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing. Charter a boat and head out into the Gulf of Mexico to catch a variety of fish, including grouper, snapper, and mahi-mahi.

Bike Paths

Clearwater offers a well-maintained network of bike paths, making it easy to explore the area on two wheels. Here are some popular options:

Suncoast Pinellas Trail: This paved trail stretches over 40 miles, connecting Clearwater to other parts of Pinellas County. It’s perfect for scenic rides and exploring beaches.
Beach Walk: This paved path runs along the coast from Clearwater Beach to Sand Key Park. Enjoy stunning ocean views and beach access points.
Samuels Avenue Bike Path: This path winds through residential neighborhoods and offers a more peaceful riding experience.

Campsites

While Clearwater itself doesn’t have traditional campgrounds, there are several options nearby that offer camping facilities:

Fort De Soto Park: This state park offers campsites with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. It’s located south of St. Petersburg and offers beautiful beaches and kayaking opportunities.
SunWest RV Resort and Campground: This private campground provides full hookup RV sites, tent camping, a swimming pool, and laundry facilities. It’s located a few miles east of Clearwater.
Indian Shores Campground: This campground offers various campsites for tents and RVs, with amenities like a pool, playground, and laundry facilities. It’s situated directly on the beach in Indian Shores, north of Clearwater.

No matter what time of year you visit, Clearwater offers something for everyone. With its beautiful beaches, exciting activities, and rich marine life, Clearwater is sure to create lasting memories.