Clearwater is best known for being a beach destination that is perfect for a summer getaway. It’s been named America’s #1 beach going on three years now! You’ll find gorgeous white sands and crystal blue waters, as well as some of the best marine life around. Come for the beaches, but stay for the small-town shopping, dining, and live entertainment the downtown area has to offer! No matter age or interests, this bright and beautiful beach town has something for everyone!
How to Get There
Clearwater is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, just 22 miles from Tampa on Florida’s stunning west coast. Both the downtown area and Clearwater Beach have expansive marina facilities making that area especially attractive to boaters. The city is also serviced by two nearby airports. Tampa International is often hailed as America’s favorite, ranking high in convenience and ease of travel, and is located just 19 miles from the beach. The St. Petersburg/Clearwater International Airport is even closer (11 miles) and accessible from an ever-increasing number of cities. In addition to air and sea, Clearwater can easily be reached by car. The Courtney Campbell Causeway/Gulf to Bay Boulevard bridges of Highway 60 link the city to Tampa via a fabulous scenic drive. Clearwater is just off I-75, linking the Midwest to the charming town. It’s also just 90 miles from Orlando, making it the perfect add-on to a Disney family vacation.
Where to Stay
The Hyatt Regency is our favorite place to stay in Clearwater because of its central location, rooftop pool, fresh dining, and of course its picturesque pink exterior!
Just steps away from the Gulf and the famous Pier 60, you’ll never have to travel far to experience all the beach town has to offer. Relax in the coastal inspired oversized rooms, plus gorgeous suites available that are perfect for families. The suites even come with their own kitchen if you prefer to stay in and cook! Unwind at the poolside bar and the rooftop hot tub with amazing views.
Plus, we’ve picked this resort to host our Cabana Life Pop Up Shop! Find our favorite summer styles in a town that’s just begging for resort-wear! Hurry and check it out from July 1-14 in the Hyatt, next to the market and the SHOR restaurant.
Where to Eat
The award-winning American seafood restaurant, SHOR is so convenient for Hyatt guests, and perfectly captures the spirit of Clearwater! The open kitchen is great table-side entertainment for the kids, as the whole family can watch the preparation of their meals. The Lobster Mac N’ Cheese was our personal favorite, but the Chef’s Daily Special is always the most popular item on the menu. Seasonal, fresh, and so delicious, we can’t recommend SHOR enough!
Pro Tip: Order the Manjito Mojito as your cocktail! The fun tiki glass goes hand in hand with the delicious drink!
What to Do
The Hyatt property offers a variety of activities that will keep your whole family entertained. For quality bonding time, enjoy the sandbox with the little ones or play foosball and cornhole with the older kids. And if you want to leave the kids for an adult excursion, Camp Hyatt offers hotel guests ages 3-12 fun-filled days with fun and interactive activities!
Plus, with the beach and bay so close, you’ll have limitless things to do and adventures to uncover. If you want to really dive into Clearwater, kayaking or paddle boarding in the Intracoastal or the Gulf will reveal turtles, dolphins, manatees, just to name but a few. As well as the amazing aquatic life, check out Pier 60 for a popular sight-seeing and fishing spot. In the evening, it hosts daily festivals at sunsets, featuring artisans, street performers, and of course world-famous sunsets. Your kids will never want to leave the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which is home to Winter the Dolphin, star of the Dolphin Tale movies!
Pro Tip: Just want to relax at the beach, you can rent adorable green and white cabanas! Plus, they make for a great photo op!
What to Pack
As a renowned beach town, be sure to wear all the right sun protection while you’re lounging poolside or swimming in the blue waters! Our must-pack items include a rashguard, cover up, and tunic dress. UPF 50+ pieces like the ones offered by Cabana Life will help you soak up the sun safely and keep you from returning home with a painful burn. That way, you’ll be able to relax, sink deep into that white sand, and swim with confidence that no matter how bright the sun, you’ll be protected. Ready to get away? Before you zip up your suitcase, check out our selection of sun protective clothing. And once you arrive in Clearwater, don’t forget to check out Cabana Life’s pop up shop at the Hyatt Regency for new summer styles!