Sunny beaches and warm Gulf waters await you in Clearwater, Florida. Located in the Tampa Bay area, Clearwater has some of the best white sand beaches on Florida's Gulf Coast. From scenic fishing piers to aquatic mammal rehabilitation centers, this city has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, there is plenty to do in Clearwater.
In the early days, settlers referred to the area as Clear Water Harbor. The town was named for the clear waters along the coast. Today, visitors from all over the world come to Clearwater for the beautiful beaches and many attractions. The town has grown over the past few decades, but it still retains its small-town charm for all residents and guests that play in the area.
If you want to take a look at the native wildlife, you can stop by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This non-profit organization is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured marine animals. They also offer programs to educate the public about their conservation and research efforts. The Aquarium opened in 1972 in a former water treatment plant. Many of these animals cannot be returned to the wild. One of the best-known residents is a bottlenose dolphin named Winter. She was rescued in 2005 after her tail was caught in a crab trap. She was fitted with a prosthetic tail by the facilities staff. The facility received national and international attention due to her rescue. Winter would even go on and star in two major films. You can visit Winter and other marine life at the Aquarium. There are plenty of exhibits and animal encounters to keep you busy for a whole day.
For those wanting to relax on the beach, you have picked the right spot. The white sand of Clearwater Beach draws visitors year-round. You can take part in many different water sports, including jet-skiing, parasailing, and stand-up paddle boarding in the clear water. The beachfront promenade is the perfect place to glide along on a bike and get a spectacular view of the Gulf. If you are hungry, Clearwater Beach has plenty of cafes serving up fresh seafood and local delicacies. Whether you choose to visit in the day or at night, Clearwater Beach is the perfect place to relax.
One of the most famous Clearwater spots is called Pier 60. This pier is more than a fishing pier. At 1,080 feet, the pier includes a park, telescopes, and viewing pavilions. If you need bait and supplies for your fishing adventure, the pier has a bait house that is open to the public. Once you are on the pier, you can fish for spotted trout, snook, snapper, and Spanish mackerel. The pier is open all day and night. At sunset, you can visit and get some great views of the ocean. At night, Pier 60 comes alive with evening street performers and craft vendors.
If you are looking for a relaxing stroll, you must stop by Clearwater's Beach Walk. This pedestrian area is paved and lined with tall palms. Along the way, you will pass by many boutique shops and quaint businesses. The beachside path also twists by old-fashioned ice cream parlors and local artisan shops. For those looking for a unique gift or souvenir, you can find it on the Beach Walk. It makes an ideal way to spend a gorgeous day in Clearwater.
One of the best performance art venues is located in Clearwater. Ruth Eckerd Hall is a great way to take in a Broadway-style show. The venue also features acts from a variety of genres including dance recitals, orchestral pieces, and children's performances. The Hall can hold over 2,000 patrons for any performance. Ruth Eckerd Hall is often called the top performance venue in the United States.
Finally, the Pinellas Trail doesn't stop or start in Clearwater, but it does pass through the town. You can access the trail from various points across Clearwater. If you feel adventurous, you can travel down the full 38.2 miles of the path. For the casual fitness fan, the path is paved and can be used by those who want to walk, cycle, skate, or jog down the trail.
Clearwater is full of activities that you can enjoy throughout the year. You don't want to miss out on events because you need to mow the lawn. At Lawn Love, we can help you out. Our team of professionals will take care of your landscaping needs. You never have to worry about the hassles of yard work again. Contact Lawn Love to see how we can help you.
