When Jared had suggested Clearwater Beach, Florida, for our annual New Years Eve trip, I couldn’t have been more excited to get back here and explore! Already having been familiar with Clearwater Beach from when I went to school at The University of Tampa, I knew it was going to be a great trip! While I had visited the area a bunch of times, I had never really explored or vacationed, as I would just go with my friends for a casual beach day. I was super excited to get to experience it all over again, and this time with Jared! Clearwater Beach is one of the closest beaches in the area (about a 40 minute drive from Tampa) and also one of the nicest! In this guide we’ll explore all the things we did, where we stayed, some good hidden gems, and even activities to do in the surrounding areas! If you’re looking for some of the best, clear-blue beaches in the country, Clearwater Beach is the place!
What to Expect at Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, located on the stunning Gulf Coast of Florida, offers a perfect combination of sun, sand, and coastal charm. Here are a few things you can expect to find while visiting Clearwater Beach:
- Stunning White Sandy Beaches and Crystal Clear Waters – Clearwater Beach is known for its powdery white sand and crystal clear water, creating a beautiful shoreline perfect for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, beach combing, and sandcastle building.
- Iconic Sunsets at Pier 60 – You don’t want to miss the nightly sunset celebrations at Pier 60. You can experience an exciting atmosphere with street performers, artisans, and breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon.
- Fun Water Sports and Activities – The Gulf of Mexico’s clear blue waters provide a refreshing backdrop for swimming, snorkeling, and various water activities. From parasailing and jet skiing to paddleboarding and dolphin-watching tours, Clearwater Beach offers a range of water-based adventures for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Beachfront Dining – Indulge in delicious coastal cuisine at beachside restaurants, savoring fresh seafood, accompanied by live music and an upbeat setting, while enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf. To take full advantage of the picturesque surroundings!
- Festivals and Events – Throughout the year, Clearwater Beach also hosts various events, including music festivals, food events, and sports competitions. These are a great way to explore the area and learn more about the art in Clearwater, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
- A Nice Family-Friendly Atmosphere – Clearwater Beach is definitely a family-friendly destination with a relaxed atmosphere, and fun filled activities. Kids can enjoy building sandcastles, collecting seashells, playing games, or exploring the ocean in the gentle waves.
Where We Stayed
The Avalon Club – We stayed at an absolute STUNNING place called, The Avalon Club, which was located directly on the beach. Jared found this place through Airbnb and it is definitely at the top of my list for favorites places we have stayed this far. It was BEAUTIFUL, the rooms were AMAZING, and you walk right outside to the sand in your toes. How much better can it get?! This would be the perfect spot if you’re going with a large group or if you have a bunch of kids. Very spacious and accommodating with plenty of amenities including a pool, outdoor bar, beach gear, and golf cart rental. I would highly recommend this place and would 100% stay at this condo again!
*TRAVEL HACK* [I have mentioned in other blog posts before, but a good way to get a better rate on your rooms is to go through the website directly once finding a place on Airbnb. Most of the time places offer better rates that don’t include all of the Airbnb fees. It’s always worth a shot to ask.]
Where To Eat
First things first, the food! Clearwater Beach is full of delicious and exciting restaurants! There is a diverse array of restaurants, ranging from casual beachside cafes to upscale dining establishments. Many offer fresh seafood, reflecting the coastal locale, while others feature a variety of international cuisines. Here are some things you can expect at most dining places in Clearwater:
- Scenic Views: Clearwater Beach is known for its beautiful white sandy shores and clear blue waters. A beachside restaurant would likely provide stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico or the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Fresh Seafood: Given its coastal location, you can expect seafood to be a highlight on the menu. Fresh catches, including various types of fish, shrimp, and shellfish, are often featured.
- Lot’s of Outdoor Seating: To take full advantage of the picturesque surroundings, beachside restaurants typically offer outdoor seating options – bonus points if you make it in time for the sunset!
- Live Music and Entertainment: Depending on the type of restaurant, there will most likely be some sort of live music or form of entertainment to enhance the overall dining experience, especially during evenings or special events.
Now, for all the good spots we found:
Breakfast & Brunch
Another Broken Egg – Whether you’re gearing up for a day of shopping or a relaxing time at the beach, this is the spot to kickstart your day with a cup of coffee and a lavish breakfast. Whenever I see a Lobster Benedict on the menu, you can bet I’m ordering it, and this one was extremely up to par! This place has a sophisticated, but relaxed atmosphere with options like spiked cold brews and expertly crafted cocktails during their brunch. Of course they also have all the basics like pancakes, eggs, and french toast, and they even offer a pet-friendly patio. Plus, the added convenience of ordering your favorite cocktail to go!
Clear Sky Beachside РClear Sky is a fantastic caf̩ conveniently located just half a block from the beach, making it an ideal spot for breakfast or lunch. Notably, their Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are to die for and truly exceptional. What sets this spot apart is its diverse menu, offering delectable samples of Mexican, Asian, Italian, French, and classic American dishes, all in one, creating a culinary experience that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Lunch
Frenchys – Frenchy’s is a true Clearwater Beach classic and a must-visit destination! With several locations available, we opted for the beachside one closest to our condo. Renowned for their incredible food, especially the must-try Grouper Sandwich, we were repeatedly recommended to give this spot a go – and it absolutely lived up to the hype. To emphasize, I confess to indulging in four servings of their delectable coconut shrimp because it was simply that delicious. The atmosphere is characterized by vibrant energy and a fast-paced vibe. Adding to the experience, they serve the most amazing Pina Coladas and a variety of delightful frozen drinks!
Crabby’s Dockside – Crabby’s Dockside, situated just across from Pier 60, is a great choice for a casual lunch or dinner (although personally I would choose Frenchy’s over it any day!) With three levels of seating, the top floor has a beautiful view of the clear blue ocean. The relaxed and casual ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely day by the beach while enjoying some delicious, fresh, seafood.
Dinner
Palm Pavilion – Palm Pavilion is undeniably a top restaurant for me, perfect for both lunch and dinner. Renowned for their incredible Pina Coladas, the food is equally delicious. They have burgers, wraps, salads, and tacos all with a delightful seafood twist. With a beachside setting offering live music and a lively bar scene, it’s the go-to spot for seafood enthusiasts. The casual atmosphere is complemented by outdoor seating, providing an enjoyable and laid-back dining experience.
Cesare’s – For those seeking a charming Italian dining experience in the area, look no further—this spot is the perfect place! Offering many dishes of a diverse selection of pasta, their Chicken Parmesan is particularly noteworthy in our opinion. Despite being spoiled by the best Italian food back home, Casares pleasantly surprised us, managing to meet our high expectations—a rare find in an area predominantly focused on seafood-centric offerings.
Ocean Hai @ Wyndham Grand – Ocean Hai was Jared’s choice for our New Year’s Eve dinner, and it was an upscale gem! The restaurant featured a special NYE pre-selected menu with a variety of exquisite dishes, all of which were exceptional. The atmosphere was lively and fancy, and the interior was stunningly beautiful. Following dinner, we lingered in the hotel’s lounge/bar area, which offered live music and TVs for watching the game and countdown. To top it off, the hotel hosted a ticketed NYE Vegas-themed party, making it a fantastic and well-rounded choice for the celebration! Loved this spot!
Drinks and Bars
Rooftop Bar @ Pier House 60 – Following our wonderful experience at Ocean Hai, serendipity led us to the Rooftop Bar @ Pier House 60, a hidden gem we had researched for its reputation as the ultimate vantage point for the midnight fireworks across the city. The setting was nothing short of breathtaking – a panoramic view of the cityscape accompanied by the beats of a live DJ. This place was such a great time and included was a complimentary glass of champagne, NYE hats and goodies, and a countdown to welcome the new year, making it an unforgettable and picture-perfect celebration! Regardless if you’re here to ring in the new year or not, you should definitely still come here to check out the insane view.
Shepard’s Tiki Beach Grill – Shephard’s Tiki Bar in Clearwater is a vibrant and lively waterfront venue known for its energetic atmosphere and stunning views. I cannot tell you how many people told us that we should have gone here… AFTER WE GOT HOME. Unfortunately, we didn’t experience it for ourselves but it’s on my list for when we go back because of all the great things we heard about it. Located at Shephard’s Beach Resort, the Tiki Bar offers a tropical oasis where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious bites while taking in beautiful scenes of the ocean. With live music, a beachside setting, and a diverse selection of tropical cocktails, Shephard’s Tiki Bar is a popular destination for those seeking a beachfront escape with a lively vibe.
Reefers Social Club – Reefers Social Club was SUCH A COOL PLACE. Jared and I were trying not to drink this trip so we didn’t spend too much time bar hopping but if we were to, this would have definitely been one of the spots. We walked by this multiple times and it was jamming. It’s an indoor/outdoor bar connected right to the sidewalk – the barstools are literally seated on the sidewalk. They were always vining to upbeat music and just looked like such a fun time. Plus it was right outside of our little condo. Would go back!
Private Chef
Private Chef/Chef Katie – If you know us, we’re getting a private chef dinner when we’re on vacation! Jared had found this chef off of Instagram and this meal was 10/10. Probably one of the top private chefs we’ve had thus far. We pre-picked our menu beforehand and the dishes were just incredible. From seared tuna, to fried goat cheese, to truffle butter steak, my mouth was WATERING. (Also this was another great reason we loved The Avalon Club because it was like we were eating a private dinner with a beachfront view!) If you’re in the area or looking for a good private chef, Chef Katie is your girl.
Things To Do
Beyond the exquisite food, Clearwater Beach offers numerous activities to suit every taste. From water adventures in the Gulf to exploring lively entertainment hubs, Clearwater Beach promises a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Here are a list of things to do while visiting:
Total Beach Day – Begin with a sunrise stroll and a beachfront breakfast, followed by sunbathing and swimming in the Gulf’s clear waters (or like a polar plunge in the winter months). Enjoy plenty of beachside lunch options and partake in all kinds of water sports or seashell hunting. There is plenty of beach space for those who are ready to chill and relax on the beach for vacation, and most hotels offer beach chairs and cabanas. Take in the iconic sunset celebration at Pier 60 and dine at one of the beachside restaurants with picture perfect views for a full-out, well spent, beach day!
Pier 60 – Pier 60 is a popular spot known for its nightly sunset celebrations. Local artisans, crafters, street performers, and musicians often gather here, creating a lively atmosphere to showcase their work. There are tons of parks/trampolines/jump houses and fun activities for kids and adults in this area. The pier itself features a 1,080-foot fishing pier and a recreational park equipped with telescopes and shaded pavilions. The bait house provides a range of amenities, including bait, fishing gear, T-shirts, souvenirs, beverages, snacks, and rental equipment, for those who plan on spending the day!
Caladesi Island – THE COOLEST SPOT!! Caladesi Island is a barrier island which is designated as a state park. Known for its beaches, nature trails, and wildlife, the island offers a very tranquil escape. You can explore the untouched landscapes, kayaking or canoeing, and observe diverse bird species (or in our case, a ton of armadillos). Caladesi Island provides a scenic environment with limited development, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, seashell collectors, and those seeking a quiet beach experience!
For a day of exploring, Caladesi Island is the perfect spot. You can only get here by ferry (and possibly walking during low tide). You take the ferry from Honeymoon Island, which departs every 30 minutes for a 15 minute ride — weather permitting. The cost to get into the park is $8 per car and $2 per person. Ferry is $18 per person, and the trip has a 4 hour limit per trip. The island also has a little gift shop serving burgers and alcoholic drinks and was an all around great day trip experience!
Shopping – There are plenty of fun shops all around Clearwater. While it may not be a massive shopping destination compared to larger cities, you’ll find a mix of souvenir shops, boutiques, and specialty stores! They also sometimes host a marketplace located at Pier 60, which is a great place to explore local vendors and artisans. You can find handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and artwork, and the atmosphere is particularly lively during the nightly sunset celebrations!
More things we didn’t get to do…
Shark Tooth Tour – I have ALWAYS wanted to find a shark tooth and the hunt still remains. Unfortunately this tour was booked the day we were thinking about going so we didn’t get a chance to explore. This would be a perfect activity to bring your kiddos to, or if you’re like us and enjoy spending time on the water and hunting for shark teeth!
Hellas Bakery – This place is an authentic Greek cuisine spot. Our tour guide on the ferry over to Caladesi Island raved about this place and said it was a must-do. Unfortunately we didn’t have enough time to stop but he was really talking this place up. I am so intrigued about it now and it’s definitely on my list when we go back!
Flying Into Tampa
When heading to Clearwater, the most common place to fly into is Tampa! Of course I had to visit my old stomping grounds and show Jared around. We flew in early and couldn’t check in until 4pm so we decided to spend the afternoon in Tampa exploring and here are some of the things we did/you can do if this is where you fly into or want to check out:
Oxford Exchange – Hard place to get into but a superrrrrrr cool place. Oxford Exchange is a well-known and unique establishment that combines elements of a bookstore, restaurant, coffeehouse, and gift shop, all in one. It is housed in a historic building and is recognized for its sophisticated and elegant ambiance. The interior features a stunning atrium, carefully curated book collections, and a diverse range of merchandise. The restaurant offers a menu with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, providing a delightful dining experience. The Oxford Exchange is often praised for its aesthetic appeal, blending modern and classic elements to create a stylish and inviting space. I used to come here alll the time when I was in college and I loveee it here.
Restaurants in Hyde Park Village:
OLIVIA – A highly rated restaurant recommended by our private chef. Oliva crafts a menu that reflects the richness of Mediterranean cuisine. From savory tapas to indulgent entrees, each dish is a testament to the chef’s dedication to authenticity and innovation.
Meat Market – A highly rated restaurant recommended by our private chef. The menu at Meat Market Tampa showcases a commitment to excellence, featuring top-quality cuts of meat, innovative culinary creations, and an array of delectable appetizers and sides. With a focus on precision and culinary artistry, the chefs at Meat Market Tampa elevate traditional steakhouse fare to new heights.
On Swann – A good Italian spot highly rated restaurant recommended by multiple people, including our private chef! On Swann sources local and seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both visually stunning and rich in taste. The stylish yet welcoming ambiance, coupled with attentive service, makes it an ideal setting for any occasion.
Sweet Dog Tampa – One of my friends I went to school with down here recently opened her very own dog bakery right by The University of Tampa! Of course we had to go visit and check it out. If you’re ever in the area, you have to go check it out! Follow her IG here for daily updates and go show her some love!
Popstroke – Jared has been dying to see what Tiger Wood’s mini golf course was all about so we had to check it out when we were in Tampa. I can honestly say that this man is a literal genius because the way this course is set up, was just so well thought out. There are two courses – easy and medium, three bars (including one right in the middle of the two courses), a restaurant, an ice cream station, AND a little lounge area full of games and activities. You buy a day pass and basically can spend an entire day here playing the courses, and having a full family affair.
Outfits, Links, What To Pack
You know I always have to include outfits… However, it was COLD when we came here so a lot of my outfits didn’t get worn and you can see in the last photo I had to gear up with some souvenir hoodies. Had the circumstances been a little better I would have been in a bathing suit every day. Good things to pack are: linens, bathing suits, beach wear, sandals, a jacket for cooler nights, and comfy walking shoes!
Clearwater proved to be the perfect and effortlessly delightful setting to welcome in the New Year. Its versatile offerings, from engaging activities to serene beachfront moments, allowed for a celebration tailored to our preferences. The diverse range of choices, from lively festivities to peaceful retreats, made our New Year’s experience truly unforgettable. Until next time, Clearwater, thank you for the cherished moments and the warm embrace of your vibrant spirit.
Thank YOU so much for being here and reading this! Follow me on Instagram for more daily updates, fashion inspo, travel posts, food spots, and MORE!
UNTIL NEXT TIME,
TAYLOR ONZE
TAYLOR ONZE 
i love you
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