With warm, sunny, beaches, fabulous sunsets and crystal clear water, Clearwater is a great place for a weekend getaway or a week at the beach. Clearwater is located just outside Tampa, Florida and visitors will find plenty to do year round. For those into water sports, Clearwater Pass offers direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. Boaters will find the calm clear waters of the Gulf a great alternative to the rough waters of the Atlantic Ocean. A place where fishermen often target, Snook, Tarpon, Redfish and Sea Trout.

Another option is to rent a personal watercraft. It’s a great way to explore the area. Nature lovers may rent a kayak or canoe so they can get up close to birds and other wildlife.

Try a Pirate Cruise, it’s a great way to see the Gulf of Mexico and not have to do anything but enjoy the ride and scenery. If it’s a party you’re looking for, try the Pier 60 on Clearwater Beach. Every afternoon they throw a Sunset Party similar to the one at Mallory Square in Key West, Florida. The Pier is also a great place for a drink or a long walk down the pier. Fishing is also great at the pier with anglers targeting Snook, Drum, Redfish, Pompano, Croakers, Sheepshead and the occasional Cobia.

A sidewalk snakes along Clearwater Beach and is lit at night for walkers, bike riders and roller bladders. It’s relatively safe and a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the beach.

Another popular activity is Para Sailing. Many tour operators offer both para sailing and the classic nature tours, who knows you may see a manatee or dolphin on your journey.

While in Tampa, be sure to check out what it has to offer. Baseball season features the Tampa Bay Rays and football season is when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play.

For theme park lovers, check out Busch Gardens. Home to over 2000 animals, Busch Gardens is a great spot for children and adults alike. Their newest adventure Junglala features two rare animal encounters, Bengal tigers and orangutans. There are also two new rides, Jungle Flyers is a zip line experience for young adventurers above the tree tops and Wild Surge launches riders out of a mountain crater above a waterfall for a view of the village below.

If you’re ready for real action head over to Seminole Hard Rock Tampa. With over 150,000 square feet of gaming open 24/7/365 this place will get your heart pumping. There are over 50 poker tables and 3,200 gaming machines with everything from slots to poker. Other popular games include Black-Jack and Baccarat. While you’re there you’ll enjoy all the Rock and Roll memorabilia and dining experiences like Council Oak Steaks & Seafood or Rock n Raw Sushi Bar. If you just wanna keep playing, enjoy their upscale food court with basic burgers and pizza or unique items like plantains and black beans and rice from Cafe Cabana.

Wherever you go in the Tampa – Clearwater area you’ll enjoy it all, from the urban areas to the beaches.

By Kirby Collins
If you are looking for one of the best Florida beaches, head to the Gulf Coast. With wide white sand beaches and plenty of things to do in Clearwater Beach, you’ll want to come back again.