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Of all the natural attractions that Clearwater offers, the beaches
that line the shores of Clearwater are by far the most popular.
You'll most likely find them to be booming with tourists and locals,
but some beaches are a little less popular and make for a romantic
moonlit walk. Spend a day at the beach and just relax or catch a
game of volleyball or toss the Frisbee around. There are many activities
available at most of the beaches in Clearwater, so you'll never
get bored. See below for a list of beaches through-out the Clearwater
area.
Anclote Key
This State Preserve's 4-mile-long beach is an excellent swimming
and nature study site. Six distinct biological communities provide
habitat for dozens of species of bird life including the rare bald
eagle and piping plover. A picturesque 1887 federal lighthouse stands
sentinel on the southern end of the island while ospreys nest in
the tall pines found throughout the island. Accessible only by boat,
Anclote Key is a charming hideaway offering unmatched privacy.
Fred Howard Park
The perfect spot for windsurfing and fishing, this 150-acre county
park features a mile-long causeway connecting the offshore swimming
area and the mainland. The park is open from 7 a.m. to sunset, offering
barbecue grills, sheltered pavilions, children's playgrounds, public
restrooms and beach showers.
Sunset Park
Sunset Park is a favorite with locals for picnics, swimming and
boat launching. Its offerings include barbecue grills, sheltered
picnic tables, bicycle stands and public restrooms. Hours are from
sunrise to 10 p.m.
Honeymoon Island
One of the state's few undisturbed barrier islands, this state park
features two bird observation areas, a pet beach and two nature
trails. Honeymoon Island has more than 208 species of plants and
a variety of shore birds, including several threatened and endangered
species. In addition to nature study, this island is ideal for sunbathing,
shelling, swimming and fishing. Honeymoon Island also features picnic
pavilions, bathhouses, a park concession building and the Caladesi
Island Ferry , which takes guests to the nearby Caladesi Island
State Park. Originally settled by members of the Tocobaga tribe
of Native Americans, the Island has seen a wave of explorers, pirates,
traders and fisherman in its 7000-year history.
Caladesi Island
Home to a beach that has been ranked the sixth best in the entire
U.S., Caladesi Island is ideal for swimming, shelling, fishing,
picnics, snorkeling, scuba diving and nature study. This state park
features a three-mile nature trail winding through the island's
interior, a snack bar, shelters and docks for private boats. The
park opens daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. A ferry departs hourly from
nearby Honeymoon Island.
Clearwater Beach
Offering just about every water and beach activity imaginable, Clearwater
Beach has been named the top city beach in the Gulf region. Pier
60 Park features a family recreation complex on Clearwater's expansive
beach with covered playgrounds, fishing and concessions. The Sunsets
at Pier 60 festival features music, entertainment and a beautiful
Gulf of Mexico sunset throughout the year.
Sand Key Park
This 90-acre county park features a 1/2 mile of white-sand beach
that has been rated among the top 20 beaches in the United States.
The park offers two bathhouses, picnic shelters, lifeguard stations
and ample parking. The park is open every day from 7 a.m. to sunset.
Lifeguards are on duty from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Bellair Beach
Bellair Beach is one of the northernmost communities on Sand Beach.
This two-mile long beach established in 1950 has a population of
nearly 2000 year-around residents. With only a few motels and some
condo rentals, some consider Bellair Beach a bedroom community.
There are no commercial buildings. The beaches are public, but access
is private.
Indian Rocks Beach
Indian Rocks Beach is less than three miles long with a population
of approximately 4,000. Waterfront properties face either the Gulf
or the Intercoastal Waterway. Despite its sleepy appearance, Indian
Rocks Beach is home to an array of hotels, motels and condos and
over 20 public beaches. Indian Rocks was initially developed in
the 1920's as a weekend getaway for the wealthy inland residents.
Indian Shores
Indian Shores is a town of less than 1,500 residents and 3 miles
of sandy white beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Due to the number of
accommodations from low-cost motels to high-end condos the population
of Indian Shores tops out at over 5,000 in season. This town hosts
a number of great seafood, steak, and other cuisine restaurants.
There are a number of public access beaches for your enjoyment.
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