If you’re looking for a new spot to hit or a more tranquil vibe than Clearwater Public Beach, Sand Key Park fits the bill.
Ditch the crowds and enjoy a day of beauty, snorkeling, shell-collecting, picnics, fishing, kayaking, and dozing in the sunshine.
Clean stretches of white sand, softly lapping waves, and the balmy Gulf of Mexico make this a prime spot.
Where Is Sand Key Park?
Sand Key Park is a 95-acre park on Sand Key, a lovely barrier island adjacent to Clearwater Beach.
To get there, simply drive south along Gulf Boulevard and cross the Sand Key Bridge over Clearwater Pass.
From Clearwater Beach’s south end, the drive only takes about five minutes.
Address: 1060 Gulf Boulevard, Clearwater, FL 33767
Parking At Sand Key Park
Although entrance to the park is free, parking costs a flat rate of $5 per day. The pay stations only accept credit cards.
If you don’t have a car, you can bike there or take the Suncoast Beach Trolley.
Things To Do At Sand Key Park
There are tons of great things to do at Sand Key Park. It’s perfect for singles, couples, and families alike.
Swimming or Snorkeling
The inviting blue waters of Sand Key are ideal for a refreshing dip or a long open-water swim. If you’re lucky, you may even spot dolphins.
Since the water is so clean, clear, and warm, snorkeling here is a delight.
Don your mask and snorkel and swim around looking at fish in their natural habitat.
Go Shelling And Build Sandcastles
There are hundreds of intact seashells along the beach at Sand Key. Why not stroll along the sand and see what treasures you find?
With the help of hands, shovels, and buckets, you can create an elegant palace, a fortress, or a sculpted mermaid.
Get creative and have fun playing in the sand.
Wildlife Viewing And Nature Walk
Are you hoping to spot a pod of dolphins or enjoy watching birds? You’re in luck!
Tons of seabirds flock to this barrier island, especially the salt marsh.
Walk along the 1.6-mile nature trail for views of pelicans, laughing gulls, American Oystercatchers, Willets, and more.
From May through October, loggerhead sea turtles come to the beach to nest. Seeing the babies hatch is an unforgettable experience.
Enjoy The Dog Park or PlayGround
Let your dog off the leash to run, roam, snuff, and drink from the water stations at Sand Key Dog Park.
Later, you can walk along the boardwalk and view the salt marsh.
Just note that dogs aren’t allowed on the beach, and must be leashed if they are outside the dog park.
If you have kids, set them loose on the playground to burn off energy.
Fishing
Fishing is another fun activity at Sand Key. Blue runners, ladyfish, Spanish mackerel, pompano, and sheepshead swim in the water around the fishing jetties.
Watch The Sunset
Sand Key Park is a prime place to watch the sunset. Bring along a special drink and some snacks (no alcohol allowed), and enjoy nature’s light show.
Sand Key Park Amenities
When it comes to amenities, Sand Key Park has you covered.
There is plenty of parking, a boardwalk, a concession stand, outdoor showers, bathrooms with changing stalls, pay stations, a dog park, a playground, picnic shelters with grills, kayak rentals, two fishing piers, and umbrella and cabana rentals.
Lifeguards are typically on duty from mid-March until mid-September.
If you require a beach wheelchair, you can request one from the lifeguards on duty, or call 727-582-2100.
Note: Dogs are not allowed on the beach and must be leashed unless they are inside the dog park.
Sand Key Park Hours
The park is open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset. It is closed on Black Friday and Christmas Day.
Booking a last-minute trip to Clearwater FL?
If so, we have you covered.
Top Tours in Clearwater FL
Little Toot Dolphin Adventure (Clearwater’s Best Dolphin Tour)
Clearwater Dolphin-Watching Tour (Affordable Dolphin Tour Option)
Sunset Cruise From Clearwater (Relaxing Sunset Cruise from Clearwater)
Clearwater Encounters With Dolphins Tour (Fantastic Boat Ride & Dolphins Tour)
Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise (Evening Cruise With Optional Dining)
Top Rated Hotels & Accommodations – Booking.com
Sandpearl Resort Private Beach – (4-star luxury beach resort)
Pelican Pointe Hotel – (Top-rated budget hotel)
AC Hotel by Marriott – (Cozy mid-range hotel)
Belleview Inn – (Fabulous luxury hotel)
Looking To Get Around In Clearwater FL?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗