Things to Do Off the Sand
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Our most popular family attraction is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium on Island Estates, home to Winter and Hope, stars of the movies “Dolphin Tale” and “Dolphin Tale 2.”
North of Clearwater Beach, find Caladesi Island, a barrier island only accessible via ferry boat, and Honeymoon Island. Both are popular state parks.
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 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.
Clearwater’s temperate climate provides a backdrop for year-round events – Philadelphia’s Phillies spring training, Clearwater Celebrates America in July, and Jazz Holiday and the Palm Pavilion Stone Crab Weekend each fall. Nightly, Sunsets at Pier 60 features artists, craftsmen, live music and buskers, plus a playground. Sunset Cinema is held on Friday and Saturday nights, weather permitting. Alternately consider watching a Tampa Bay Rays, major league baseball game at Tropicana Field.
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 lighted tennis and basketball courts, a boat launch, fitness center, fishing dock, a seasonal swimming pool with lap lanes, slides and water features and a children’s play area.
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.