Clearwater Beach Still Ranked Top Beach Destination in the USA

Enjoy miles and miles of sandy coastline dotted with small Florida towns, museums, restaurants, fishing boats, rental cottages, and shell-strewn beaches. Spend your perfect beach vacation in one of the lovely towns along the Gulf Coast

Clearwater Beach

TripAdvisor has named Clearwater Beach as the Nation's number one beach twice, and it is the only Florida beach to make the top 25 beaches in the world list. The soft white sand has the appearance and feel of powdered sugar. You'll find turkey wing, lightning whelk and keyhole limpet shells in abundance at Clearwater's Sand Key Park. First class hotels, resorts, marina, numerous restaurants, and popular Tiki bars fulfill the visitor's need for luxurious accommodations and fine cuisine. The Seaside Seabird Sanctuary, Clearwater Beach Aquarium, Swimming with Manatees at Crystal River, boat tours, museums, and more provide ample activities for visitors when they are not enjoying the beach. You'll also find pet-friendly beaches in Clearwater because dogs need to take a dip in the ocean too.

Honeymoon Island

This popular destination, just north of Clearwater, is not only for lovers and honeymooners because families love it too. There is so much to enjoy in this beautiful Florida state park. The Osprey Trail is home to a virgin slash pine stand, and there is an abundance of wildlife. Bald eagles, osprey, and great horned howls are the most common birds of prey you will see here. Gophers and armadillos are frequently spotted. Signs warn of the presence of rattlesnakes, so stay alert on the hiking trails. The beach is gorgeous, has a magnificent view, and even a few swings. If you're looking for a peaceful destination where you can relax and enjoy nature, Honeymoon Island is the place.

Shell Key

Visitors to Shell Key are fascinated by the teeming sea life and nesting shore birds. This beautiful island sanctuary is a wonderful place to enjoy the beach, snorkeling, collect beautiful shells, go birding, capture amazing photographic images, and take a spectacular sunset cruise at the end of the day. Learn about the island's wildlife and how its creatures live in their natural habitat. Marsh rabbits, native birds (many nesting), and sea turtles are some of the wildlife you may encounter. Remember to stay at a respectful distance to avoid upsetting their natural balance, and never disturb any nests. A camera with a zoom lens will give you excellent photos without stressing the wildlife.

Sand Key

Sand Key is a favorite of beachcombers because the beautiful soft sand is dotted with sea shells. It's also a popular destination for kayak lovers. The salt marsh is complete with great photo opportunities with herons, anhingas, and other shore birds. Endangered sea turtles find Sand Key to be a good nesting site, so be aware and respectful by staying back from any wildlife you see. There is a great playground for children, bike rentals are available, and there are seafood restaurants where you can enjoy a tasty lunch and delicious dinner.

Treasure Island Beach

This is a wonderful family beach where you might see beautiful sand sculptures. The beach entrance is wheelchair accessible, which is also helpful to parents with little ones in strollers. Cabanas and chair rentals are available as are canoes, and volleyball nets. There are sections of the beach with lots of shells. Be sure to choose only those shells that are no longer occupied. You can spend a peaceful evening listening to gentle waves lapping on the shore and taking in the glorious sunset.

The Florida Gulf Coast has many more beaches that are similar to those described. Each one is a little different and has some special aspect. You are sure to be delighted visiting any of the beaches and look forward to when you can return.