The Best Cities Near Clearwater Florida To Visit!

Geography: Cities Near Clearwater, FL

Tampa lies east of Clearwater and is one of the major cities in the region.

It is situated on Tampa Bay, leading to a substantial coastline that includes several beaches and small towns.

The land’s total area is mostly flat and coastal, with areas of low-lying wetlands.

To the south, across the span of the famous Sunshine Skyway Bridge, St. Petersburg presents itself with a waterfront geography.

Largo is a city located just south of Clearwater and is home to several parks including the Largo Central Park Nature Preserve, featuring a mix of developed land and natural habitats.

North of Clearwater, visitors find Dunedin, which is characterized by its small-town charm and coastal location.

This city has waterfront views along the St. Joseph Sound and includes several islands, such as Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island.

Tarpon Springs is recognized for its rich Greek culture and sponge docks.

Located north of Clearwater, its coastal geography is significant for the sponge diving industry, and it comprises part of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.

Safety Harbor is nestled on the west shore of Tampa Bay and is known for its distinctive Safety Harbor Resort & Spa.

The city’s geography includes portions of bayfront terrain and is acknowledged for the iconic Safety Harbor Pier.

Each of these cities offers a distinct geographical experience while maintaining proximity to the amenities of Clearwater, contributing to the diverse landscape of the region.

Top Destinations Near Clearwater, FL

Clearwater, Florida, is surrounded by a variety of charming cities, each offering its own unique attractions and ambiance.

These nearby destinations are perfect for day trips or exploring local culture and nature.

Largo

Largo, just south of Clearwater, is known for its beautiful parks and engaging cultural centers.

It’s home to the Florida Botanical Gardens, a lush escape showcasing the state’s native flora, perfect for a day trip.

Dunedin

To the north of Clearwater lies Dunedin, a small city with a Scottish heritage.

Dunedin prides itself on its vibrant Downtown Market, and the Pinellas Trail, a long trail perfect for biking and walking.

The city is also a gateway to the pristine Caladesi Island State Park, accessible by ferry ideal for day and weekend trips.

Palm Harbor

Palm Harbor, situated north of Clearwater, is a haven for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The town boasts the acclaimed Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club, known for its PGA Tour-hosted courses.

For those looking for outdoor activities, John Chesnut Sr. Park is a scenic spot offering picnic areas and a boardwalk that meanders through natural Florida landscapes.

Attractions And Entertainment

Clearwater, Florida, is renowned for its stunning beaches, engaging cultural venues, and abundant parks and nature reserves.

Beaches Nearby

✓ Clearwater Beach: Renowned for its white sand and clear waters, it’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports.

✓ Sand Key Park: Offers a less crowded experience with beautiful views, picnic areas, and a chance to spot sea turtles.

Cultural Venues

✓ Capitol Theatre: Established in the 1920s, it showcases concerts, comedy shows, and classic films.

✓ The Ruth Eckerd Hall: Known for performances by the Florida Orchestra and Broadway series.

Parks and Nature Reserves

✓ Moccasin Lake Nature Park: Features wildlife exhibits and nature trails spanning 51 acres.

✓ Crest Lake Park: Provides community events, a dog park, and walking paths amidst serene lake views.

Transportation Options

Clearwater, Florida, is well-connected by various transportation options to ensure residents and visitors can navigate the area efficiently.

Public Transit

The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) operates a network of buses in Clearwater and the surrounding areas, making it convenient to travel without a personal vehicle.

They offer regular routes, express services, and a trolley service that connects to key destinations.

Airports Nearby

Travelers have two primary airports to choose from: Tampa International Airport (TPA) and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE).

TPA is located about 20 miles east of Clearwater, offering a variety of domestic and international flights.

PIE, approximately 12 miles to the southeast, provides options for regional and low-cost carriers.

Dining And Cuisine Options

Visitors to cities near Clearwater, FL, will find a delightful array of dining options, from cozy local eateries to upscale dining experiences, and a bounty of fresh seafood specialties.

Local Eateries

In the surrounding areas of Clearwater, one can discover a plethora of charming local restaurants. 

Bon Appetit in Dunedin offers a laidback atmosphere with waterfront views, perfect for drinks and seafood dishes.  

For a taste of local flavor, The Black Pearl in Dunedin has a reputation for innovative dishes with a Southern twist.

Fine Dining

Those seeking a fine dining experience near Clearwater should consider Bascom’s Chop House in Clearwater itself, which is known for its exquisite culinary creations and sophisticated environment.

Across the bay in Tampa, Bern’s Steak House is an iconic establishment that pairs its meticulously prepared steaks with an impressive wine selection.

Seafood Specialties

Seafood enthusiasts will revel in the fresh catches found in this region.

Clearwater’s Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill offers stunning views of the Gulf and a fresh seafood menu that highlights local favorites such as grouper sandwiches.

Meanwhile, in Safety Harbor, diners at Saltwater Grill can savor fresh oysters and a variety of fish dishes that showcase the finest local seafood.

Shopping And Retail

Clearwater, FL, and its neighboring areas offer diverse shopping experiences, from expansive malls with major retailers to unique boutique stores and lively local markets.

Malls and Shopping Centers

✓ Westfield Countryside Mall: This mall houses over 150 stores, including well-known brands like Macy’s and Dillard’s.

The food court and movie theater offer entertainment options.

✓ Clearwater Mall: Visitors can find a variety of stores and services from national chains like Target and Ross to select eateries and date-night destinations.

Accommodation And Lodging

Visitors to the Clearwater, FL area will find a range of accommodation options to suit their preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels and resorts to cozy vacation rentals and economical stays.

Hotels and Resorts

Clearwater boasts a variety of hotels and resorts that cater to both leisure and business travelers.

Notable examples include the Opal Sands Resort, which offers panoramic views of the Gulf, and the Sandpearl Resort, known for its beachfront location and top-notch amenities.

Travelers can expect well-appointed rooms, on-site dining, and pools.

🏩  Opal Sands Resort

✓ A beachfront hotel with a luxury-resort style balcony offering spectacular Gulf views.

✓Offers on-site dining and a Gulf-front Tiki bar serving small plates alongside cocktails and wine.

🏩 Sandpearl Resort

✓ 4-star Beachfront resort with lagoon-style outdoor pool, and a beachfront facing the Gulf of Mexico.

✓ Luxury amenities feature a spa, on-site restaurants, and elegant rooms.

Vacation Rentals

Those seeking a more homely atmosphere may opt for vacation rentals.

Properties range from beachfront condos to private homes, providing guests with amenities like kitchens and living spaces ideal for your weekend getaway.

Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are popular for finding these rentals in the Clearwater vicinity.

🏠 Airbnb and Vrbo Listings

✓ Beachfront condos

✓ Private homes

Budget-Friendly Stays

Budget-conscious travelers have numerous choices, including chain motels and locally-owned establishments.

The Clearwater Inn and Palm Pavilion Inn offer modest yet comfortable accommodations that allow guests to enjoy the area without a hefty price tag.

🏨 Clearwater Inn

✓ Budget-friendly hotel located in Congo River Gulf with economical rates and a good location.

✓ Offers basic amenities and free parking.

🏨 Palm Pavilion Inn

✓ Art-deco hotel with heated outdoor pool and close to the beach.

✓ Affordable comfort with on-site shopping and casual restaurant dining.

Architectural Landmarks

✓ Capitol Theatre: Built in 1921, it remains one of the oldest operating theaters in Florida.

✓ The Cleveland Street District: Known for its historic buildings and vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals & Art Scene 

✓ Murals: Public art, especially murals, can be found throughout the city, adding splashes of color and creativity.

✓ Festivals: Annual events, such as the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, celebrate the city’s rich cultural offerings.

Culture and history continue to be celebrated and preserved through these elements and events in Clearwater, contributing to the city’s unique identity.

Sports And Recreation

Clearwater, Florida, and its surrounding cities boast a variety of sports and recreation options that cater to enthusiasts of all ages.

Golfers revel in ample fairways and picturesque greens at courses like the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort in nearby Palm Harbor.

This course is known for hosting the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship.

Baseball fans are drawn to Spring Training, where they can watch the Philadelphia Phillies prepare for the season at the Spectrum Field in Clearwater.

Dunedin, just a short drive north, is home to the Toronto Blue Jays Spring Training at TD Ballpark.

👉 Here’s a quick list of other recreational activities in the area:

✓ Water Sports: Kayaking and paddleboarding at Honeymoon Island State Park.

✓ Fishing: Abundant charters are available for deep-sea fishing near Clearwater Beach.

✓ Cycling: The Pinellas Trail offers miles of scenic biking paths.

✓  Tennis: Public courts available for casual and competitive play.

Clearwater and its neighboring communities maintain well-equipped parks and recreation centers that facilitate various sports activities, ensuring there is something for every sports enthusiast to enjoy in the Tampa Bay area.

Final Thoughts: Cities Near Clearwater Florida

In conclusion, exploring the cities near Clearwater, Florida offers an exciting journey through Florida’s Gulf Coast.

From the diverse cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg to the charming streets of Largo and Dunedin, each destination promises its own unique experiences.