Things to Do Off the Sand

Our most popular family attraction is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium on Island Estates, home to the dolphin Hope. While Winter, star of the movie “Dolphin Tale” and “Dolphin Tale 2” is no longer with us; Hope remains! Experiences range from boat rides and guided tours to hands-on animal care programs.

North of Clearwater Beach, discover Caladesi Island – a barrier island only accessible via ferry boat – and Honeymoon Island. Both are popular state parks. 

April to August take in a minor league baseball game. The Clearwater Threshers, a Philadelphia Phillies minor league team, play in Clearwater. The Dunedin Blue Jays minor league team, also plays nearby in Dunedin. The Tampa Bay Rays are currently playing at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa.

The Jolley Trolley travels around Clearwater Beach to Sand Key and Island Estates. Its coastal route takes visitors to quaint downtown Dunedin with its local craft breweries and fine art center, then northward to the historic Greek fishing village of Tarpon Springs, home to its famous sponges docks.

If you are a car enthusiast, The Collection on Palmetto in Clearwater showcases the amazing progress in factory power, field power and automotive transportation, which occurred during the early part of the 20th century. Its antique automobiles date from 1886 to 1952, with particular attention paid to the Brass Era. Call ahead to confirm hours.

If arts and culture are your interest, St. Petersburg is home to an urban mural tour, internationally acclaimed Salvador Dalí Museum, Chihuly Art Glass Collection and The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art. This 50-minute day trip will most likely require a car or an Uber.

Two miles away, downtown Clearwater is home to the Capitol Theatre, operated by Ruth Eckerd Hall, our performing arts center. The Cap hosts musical artists, comedians and classical performances. Located in waterfront Coachman Park, The Sound offers outdoor concerts.

Clearwater’s temperate climate provides a backdrop for year-round events – Philadelphia’s Phillies spring training, Clearwater Celebrates America in July, Jazz Holiday and the Palm Pavilion Stone Crab Weekend each fall. Nightly, Sunsets at Pier 60 features artisans and buskers, plus a playground. 

Discover a variety of nearby activities, many accessible via the Jolley Trolley:  fish, paddle board, sail, kayak, jetski, parasail, cruise and sightsee.  Many are available at the Clearwater Beach Marina.

The Clearwater Beach Library and Recreation Complex, a one-block walk, is home to a waterfront park, lighted tennis courts, outdoor pickleball and basketball courts, a boat launch, a fitness center, fishing and a swimming pool. (Some facilities and activities closed pending repairs from the hurricanes).

Other off-island favorites are Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium in Tampa.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, just ask our front desk staff and he or she will be happy to point you in the right direction.