Clearwater Beach Paddle Board Rental 4

I’ve previously written about standup paddle board rental locations in Clearwater Beach, but I wanted to share some more information with you. Here’s my first-hand experience of paddle boarding in the Clearwater Beach area.

Paddle Board Rental

My wife and I rented paddle boards from Clearwater Beach Paddleboard & Rental Co. We waited to book our paddle board rental until we were in Clearwater Beach and made sure we rented on a day with good weather. We wanted to make sure that it wouldn’t rain, but we also wanted to make sure it wouldn’t be too windy or have choppy water. We called Clearwater Beach Paddleboard & Rental Co to make a reservation the day before our rental. If you’re visiting Clearwater Beach during a busy time of year, you may want to call further in advance. Their number: (727) 444-0441

Clearwater Beach Paddleboard & Rental Co is located at 439 Poinsettia Ave, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767. Their storefront is not on the water, but don’t worry you do not need to carry the paddle board around. The rental company will take care of it for you. We showed up at the shop the morning of our rental, checked in, signed some paperwork, and were ready to go in minutes! We chose to paddle board in the Intracoastal of Clearwater Beach and they had us set up to leave from their dock just down the street from them. They walked us down to the dock, helped us get set up with lifevests, paddles, and boards. They took the time to show us how to properly set the paddle length to match our height and give us some tips on using the paddle boards before we headed out.

Where We Went

Clearwater Beach Paddle Board Rental 2

I’ve been wanting to paddle board the Intracoastal of Clearwater Beach for a while so I had a plan on where to go before I was on the paddle board. I knew there were some fun islands to visit between Island Estates and Clearwater (mainland Clearwater, not Clearwater Beach). These islands can be seen when looking north when driving across the causeway bridge.

There are a few small islands in this area. I used either Google Maps or Apple Maps to get a visual of what the islands. I looked to see what they were like and which would be easiest to get to on a paddle board. Using the satellite images, I found an island that had small sand beaches and wasn’t too far. My wife and I decided on that island and started mapping out how we would get there.

Paddle Boarding to the Island

We left from the dock attached with Frenchy’s Seafood Company. From the docks, you can see all the boats at the Island Yacht Club directly across the water. We started off heading towards the north side of the Island Yacht Club. Paddling all the way around Island Estates would take a long time, so we planned a shortcut.

This was the part of the trip I wasn’t sure would work, but thankfully it did. We counted three inlets north of Island Yacht Club and paddled into the third inlet. At this inlet, there’s a small bridge that we were able to paddle under. It’s a very small bridge, and it happened to be high tide during our adventure. This made the road really low to the water.  We dropped down onto our stomachs and paddled with our arms like a surfboard to get under the bridge. It was tight! Thankfully it was also short. We were on the other side within a minute to two minutes.

From there, we paddled out past the homes on the other side of Island Estates. When we reached the edges of the Intracoastal waterway. The island we were looking for could easily be seen in the center of the Intracoastal waterway, just a little south of us.

Our paddle board adventure to and from the island can be seen below. The red line is the route we took to get from the paddle board rental dock to the island and back. It is about 1.25 miles from the dock to the island, two and a half miles there and back.

Clearwater Beach Paddle Board Rental Map

What We Brought

What did we bring with us? Not much! We each had our board, paddle, and life vest provided by the Clearwater Beach paddle board rental company. Nicki and I put sunscreen on right before heading out. We each wore a baseball cap, SPF shirts, and sunglasses. Nicki tossed her phone into a watertight bag to keep it safe. I tossed my GoPro that floats into my pocket. That’s all we headed out with.

Now that I’ve done it once. Next time, I’ll bring a water bottle and extra sunscreen with me. If I plan on staying on the island for a while, I’d add a small snack as well.

Was It Difficult?

Many people have never been paddle boarding and have asked if it was difficult. Paddle boarding is easier than I thought it would be. Paddle boarding to the island wasn’t my first time though. I’m from Missouri and have been paddle boarding on lakes for a couple of years. I had at least a little bit of experience with balancing on the board and knowing how it feels.

When starting out, it’s best to stay on your knees. It’s safer to keep lower to the board and easier to balance. I would always recommend staying on your knees when in shallow water or leaving a dock. Wait to stand up until you are away from docks and in deeper water. This was if you fall, you won’t hit a hard surface and the water will be deep enough to not hit the bottom.

The distance wasn’t too challenging, but it did take a while. It’s very common to have some wind on large water areas and paddling into the wind is more difficult. When we were paddling to the island, we were paddling into the wind. It took us twice as long to get to the island than it did to get back. The trip there was tiring at times with going into the wind. The way back was really enjoyable and smooth.

The day we went paddle boarding, the water was fairly smooth and there weren’t many boats out to leave wakes. This made it easier to stay on the board with relatively smooth water. When a boat would go past us, we’d quickly turn our board and head toward the boat’s wake. When on a paddle board, it’s best to paddle with the front of your board directly into the boat’s wake.

Clearwater Beach Paddle Boarding Adventure

Clearwater Beach Running Routes

Love to run? In the middle of training for a race? Clearwater Beach is a great place to go for a run for locals and those visiting on vacation. Here are some great Clearwater Bech running routes with varying distances and hills (Yes, there’s even some hills to run in these Clearwater Beach running routes.)

When running these routes, please stay alert and use caution. If running on the beach, watch out for holes and sandcastles. If running by the street, please use sidewalks when available and cautiously use crosswalks when at intersections or when crossing streets.

Running on the Beach – North

Clearwater Beach Running Route - Beach Run North

Distances started from Pier 60 and headed north to Caladesi Island. These estimated distances are how far it is to these points, double the distance to come back.

  • Palm Pavillion: ~0.5 mile
  • The end of the trash cans on the beach / sand dunes stick out further onto the beach: ~0.8 mile
  • Regatta Beach Club / 8080 Pier: ~1.4 miles away
  • Caroul Yacht Club: ~2 miles away
  • Last house on North Beach: ~2.3 miles away
  • Shell Tree: ~2.75 miles away
  • First Caladesi Island bathroom: ~3.8 miles away
  • Hurricane Pass / North End of Caladesi Island: ~5.25 miles away

Running on the Beach – South

Clearwater Beach Running Route - Beach Run South

Distance starting from Pier 60 and headed South.

  • South Beach Rocks before Clearwater Pass: ~0.5 mile
  • 1 mile to Clearwater Pass and back to Pier 60

South Clearwater Beach Loop – Small

Clearwater Beach Running Route - South Beach Loop - Small

Estimated Distance: ~1.35 miles

  • Start at the beginning of Pier 60 and head south on the beach walk
  • When the beach walk ends, continue south on the sidewalk of S Gulfview Blvd
  • Cross the street and head left or North on S Hamden Drive
  • Run straight on S Hamden Drive until it does a forced left turn onto Devon Drive
  • Turn right onto Coronado Drive and run towards the Clearwater Marina
  • Use the crosswalk between Clearwater Marina and Pier 60 and run back to the beginning of Pier 60

South Clearwater Beach Loop – Big

Clearwater Beach Running Route - South Beach Loop - Big

Estimated Distance: ~2.65 miles

  • Start at the beginning of Pier 60 and head south on the beach walk
  • When the beach walk ends, continue south on the sidewalk of S Gulfview Blvd
  • S Gulfview Blvd makes a U-turn (to the left) at the end of the south side of Clearwater Beach and turns into Bayway Blvd
  • Continue running on Bayway Blvd until the intersection of S Gulfview Blvd and turn right on S Gulfview Blvd
  • Turn right onto S Hamden Drive
  • Run straight on S Hamden Drive until it does a forced left turn onto Devon Drive
  • Turn right onto Coronado Drive and run towards the Clearwater Marina
  • Use the crosswalk between Clearwater Marina and Pier 60 and run back to the beginning of Pier 60

North Clearwater Beach Loop – Small

Clearwater Beach Running Route - North Beach Loop - Small

Estimated Distance: ~1 mile

  • Start at the beginning of Pier 60 and head north through the park and onto the sidewalk of Mandalay Ave
  • Run North of the Mandalay Ave Sidewalk
  • Turn right on Baymont Street (Hogan’s Hangout)
  • Run 2 blocks on Baymont Street then turn right onto E Shore Drive
  • Take E Shore Drive south until you hit the roundabout and use the lights to safely cross to the Clearwater Marina
  • After crossing, turn right and head back toward Pier 60 using the sidewalk following the circle and the Clearwater Marina parking lot
  • Use the crosswalk between Clearwater Marina and Pier 60 and run back to the beginning of Pier 60 (Near the Sea Screamer and the Pirate Ship)

North Clearwater Beach Loop – Big

Clearwater Beach Running Route - North Beach Loop - Big

Estimated Distance: ~2.45 miles

  • Start at the beginning of Pier 60 and head north through the park and onto the sidewalk of Mandalay Ave
  • Run North of the Mandalay Ave Sidewalk until you hit the residential circle on North Clearwater Beach
  • Use the first right turn of the circle to make a right onto Acacia Street
  • Turn right onto Bay Esplanade
  • Stay on Bay Esplanade as it makes a loop around some inner coastal water near Poinsettia Ave/Royal Way
  • Follow the forced right and Stay on Bay Esplanade as you reach the library and tennis courts
  • Turn left and run on the sidewalk of Mandalay Ave
  • Turn left onto Baymont Street
  • Run 2 blocks on Baymont and then turn right onto E Shore Drive
  • Take E Shore Drive south until you hit the roundabout and use the lights to safely cross to the Clearwater Marina
  • After crossing, turn right and head back toward Pier 60 using the sidewalk following the circle and the Clearwater Marina parking lot
  • Use the crosswalk between Clearwater Marina and Pier 60 and run back to the beginning of Pier 60 (Near the Sea Screamer and the Pirate Ship)

Memorial Causeway Bike Trail (Pier 60 to Downtown Clearwater)

Clearwater Beach Running Route - Memorial Causeway Bike Trail - Pier 60 to Downtown Clearwater

Estimated Distance: ~4.5 miles

  • Starting at the beginning of Pier 60 – Run through the park towards Clearwater Marina
  • Use the crosswalk near the Sea Screamer / Pirate Ship to cross Coronado Drive and reach the Clearwater Marina
  • Follow the sidewalk towards the Clearwater Roundabout and stay on the sidewalk as it starts following Clearwater Memorial Causeway (next to the Clearwater Marina Parking Lot)
  • Follow the sidewalk as it turns into the Memorial Causeway Bike Trail as it crosses a bridge near Bait House
  • Stay on the Memorial Causeway Bike Trail as you cross Island Estates and Cross the Causeway Bridge into downtown Clearwater
  • At the Downtown Clearwater end of the Causeway Bridge take a right turn and follow the sidewalk as it circles to get you down under the bridge to Pierce Street.
  • Turn right on the sidewalk Pierce Street and head towards downtown Clearwater
  • Turn right onto the sidewalk of S Osceola Ave
  • Turn right onto the sidewalk of  Court Street until it turns into the sidewalk of the Clearwater Memorial Causeway
  • Take the sidewalk of the Clearwater Memorial Causeway back to Clearwater Beach (this time on the north side of the Causeway)
  • Continue Straight on Clearwater Memorial Causeway when crossing Island Way
  • Cross the bridge back onto Clearwater Beach and follow the sidewalk around the north side of the Clearwater Roundabout
  • Safely Cross Mandalay Ave using the stoplight at the Hilton Clearwater Beach Hotel and turn left to run back to the beginning of Pier 60

Clearwater Pass and Sand Key Park Trail

Clearwater Beach Running Route - Clearwater Pass and Sand Key Park Trail

Estimated Distance: ~5.3 miles

  • Start at the beginning of Pier 60 and head south on the beach walk
  • When the beach walk ends, continue south on the sidewalk of S Gulfview Blvd
  • Turn right to cross Clearwater Pass on Gulf Blvd
  • Turn right into Sand Key Park and follow the small running trail through the park (not a sidewalk – it’s an unpaved running trail)
  • Use the trail to run Towards Clearwater Pass, loop back around by the beach parking lot and entrances to the beach, and towards the exit of the park
  • When exiting the park, safely cross the street and turn left on the sidewalk of Gulf Blvd to head back towards the Clearwater Pass
  • Crossover Clearwater Pass, continue straight on Gulf Blvd until you reach Bayway Blvd.
  • Turn left at Bayway Blvd
  • Continue running on Bayway Blvd until the intersection of S Gulfview Blvd and turn right on S Gulfview Blvd
  • Turn right onto S Hamden Drive
  • Run straight on S Hamden Drive until it does a forced left turn onto Devon Drive
  • Turn right onto Coronado Drive and run towards the Clearwater Marina
  • Use the crosswalk between Clearwater Marina and Pier 60 and run back to the beginning of Pier 60

Run Clearwater Events

RunClearwater is coming up soon, January 29 and 30, 2022! Choose to run one or more events including a 50K, Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay, and 5K.

Register for these races today!

Clearwater Beach Dolphin Tours

Have you heard the news? A young albino dolphin has been spotted swimming around the Clearwater Beach area! This young albino dolphin is very rare. It is one of only three albino dolphins that have been documented in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Clearwater Beach Aquarium posted on Facebook, “There have been recent sightings of a dolphin calf with atypical white colorization in Clearwater Bay. This animal is a known bottlenose dolphin calf named Cherub. As part of our Wild Dolphin Research Program we have observed the mother, Guardian, since 2013 and estimate that Cherub is less than one year old. The calf has a healed injury resulting in partial loss of one fluke, but otherwise appears in good condition and has displayed normal behavior. CMA will continue to observe this animal through our Photo ID program and monitor reports from our Rescue Team.”

This albino dolphin isn’t the only famous dolphin in Clearwater Beach. You can visit the movie stars, Winter and Hope, at the Clearwater Beach Aquarium! In addition to the famous dolphins, you’ll see many dolphins swimming around the Clearwater area, often playing in the wake of the Clearwater Beach Dolphin Tour boats. These dolphin tours are fun for the whole family. The dolphin tours give you a chance to see dolphins up close and enjoy a beautiful afternoon on the water or even a fun sunset cruise!

Family-Friendly Clearwater Beach Dolphin Tours

Little Toot Dolphin Adventure
Clearwater Marina Slip #16 | (727) 446-5503

Sea Screamers of Clearwater
Clearwater Marina Slip #15 | (727) 447-7200

MEGA BITE Tour Boat
Clearwater Marina Slip #7 |( 727) 724-4299

Encounters With Dolphins
Clearwater Marina | (727) 466-0375

Clearwater Fun Boat Dolphin Tours
Clearwater Marina Slip #19 | (585) 386-2628

The Tropics Boat Tours
Clearwater Marina Slip #5 | (727) 442-7433

Sea Life Safari Nature Cruise
249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767 | (727) 441-1790


Clearwater Beach Family Photographer - Limboden Photography

Clearwater Beach Family Photographer – Limboden Photography

Clearwater Beach is one of the best family vacation locations in the United States! It is known for its beautiful sugar soft white sand beaches, gorgeous sunsets, and warm ocean water. It has fun family activities for all age groups and interests. Pack up the family and come visit Clearwater Beach, Florida to make memories that will last a lifetime and take as many photos as you can to capture those memories forever. Want to get high-quality photos of the whole family? Consider hiring a Clearwater Beach Family Photographer while your own your family vacation!

Family Beach Photos by Clearwater Beach Photographers

Limboden Photography
727-501-2392 | Facebook | Instagram

Ella’s Photography
812-239-5660 | Facebook

Sarah Holland Photography
727-776-0413 | Facebook | Instagram

John Paul Clearwater Beach Family Portrait Photographer
727-831-2186 | Instagram

3 Sons Clearwater Photography
727-266-2111 | Facebook

Emaleen Call Photography
727-565-9006 | Facebook | Instagram

Shana Ericson
727-424-4692

MShirley Photogrpahy
813-928-9126

Chi Photography
727-481-5737 | Facebook | Instagram

Clearwater Beach Photography
727-808-5212 | Facebook

alt Photography
717-658-6632 | Facebook | Instagram

Whimsical Memories
Facebook

Gold Sun Studios Photography
727-228-2163 | Facebook

IK PhotoArt
727-771-3451 | Facebook | Instagram

T. Brooke Photography
Instagram

Kaptured by KP
Facebook | Instagram

Grecco Photography
727-210-7183 | Facebook | Instagram

Jessica McKnight Photography
727-269-7740 | Facebook | Instagram

Portraits|Tampa
Facebook

Amber McWhorter
Instagram

Clearwater Beach Paddleboarding Rental

Paddleboarding is a fun, relaxing, and a great way to safely keep your distance from others when vacationing in Florida. Here’s everything you need to know about Clearwater Beach Paddleboarding from where to rent a paddleboard, lessons, tours, and more!

Clearwater Beach Paddleboard Rentals

Clearwater Beach Paddleboard & Rental Co.
439 Poinsettia Ave, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767 | 727-444-0441

BouYah Watersports – Hilton Clearwater
400 Mandalay Ave, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767 | 727-481-0142

Tampa Bay SUP
Call/Text for location/directions | 813-784-5822
Clearwater Beach Boat Ramp (next to Clearwater Beach Library)
Abu Seba Beach (across the street from Sand Key Park)

Clearwater Beach Scooter & Bike Rentals
619 S. Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767 | 727-466-9543
(Shephards Beach Resort)

Island Marine Rentals
20045 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores, FL 33785 | 727-595-0000

Sail Honeymoon – Kayak, Stand Up Paddleboard and Sailboat Rentals
61 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698 | 727-734-0392

Paddleboarding Lessons & Tours

Paddle Out Adventures – Rental & Tours
Clearwater Municipal Marina
25 Causeway Blvd, Slip #57, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767 | 727-223-4900

Water Monkey – Rental, Lessons & Tours
727-487-2053 | Rentals brought to you! Lessons & Tours must be scheduled in advance.

“Water Monkey is a fully mobile stand up paddle board company. We proudly serve clients in the Tampa, St. Petersburg, Gulfport, Clearwater area and more. Our Intro lessons are in Gulfport and Nature Tours are Fort Desoto Park. SUP rentals can be delivered to where you are in the Tampa Bay area.”

SUP Escapes – Rental, Lessons & Tours
140 Island Way, Suite #134, Clearwater, FL 33767 | 727-308-8800

Areas Outside of Clearwater Beach to go Paddleboarding

There are some truly amazing places to go paddleboarding in Florida. If your visiting when the waves are too rough to go paddleboarding, you can head to some other areas of Florida that provide some truly amazing paddleboarding experiences as well.

Clearwater Beach Fishing

If you’re headed to Clearwater Beach, Florida for a vacation and looking for more to do outside than just sitting on the beach, don’t worry! There’s plenty to do in the area. Enjoy the beautiful outdoors and enjoy some Clearwater Beach fishing, golfing, kayaking, or paddleboard, and more!

Shore Fishing on Clearwater Beach

You can cast a line right into the Gulf of Mexico off Clearwater Beach if you’d like, but there are a few things to know before you do. The best and safest area for shore fishing on Clearwater Beach is on the north beach side of Clearwater Beach. It’s quieter throughout the day, but especially quiet in the mornings giving you plenty of room to fish safely. For those traveling to Clearwater Beach, keep in mind non-residents who are 16 years or older need to obtain Florida licenses and permits for fishing from shore, kayaks, or private boats in Florida.

Florida Fishing Licenses, Permits, and Fees:

If you don’t have a fishing Florida fishing license, don’t worry there are still other options to fish in the Clearwater Beach area such as fishing from Pier 60 or on chartered fishing boats.

Fishing on Pier 60

You can fish on Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach 7 days a week, from 6 AM to 10 PM. Simply walk down the pier to get to the Pier 60 Bait House and the Pier 60 Fishing Pier area. You can bring your own rod, or rent one directly from the Pier 60 Bait House for $8.00.

Daily Fishing Fees:
    • Adults: $8.00
    • Seniors: $6.75
    • Children 15 and under: $5.25
Weekly Pass:
    • Adults: $30.00
    • Seniors: $25.00
    • Children 15 and under $20.00
Monthly Pass:
    • Adults: $60.00
    • Seniors: $50.00
Yearly Pass:
    • Adults: $250.00
    • Seniors: $200.00

Clearwater Beach Fishing Charters

There are many different Clearwater Beach fishing charters available in the area, most of which can be found at the Clearwater Beach Marina which is located just across the street from Pier 60 at the Clearwater Beach roundabout. There are so many fishing charters in the Clearwater Marina that it is the largest fishing fleet on the west coast of Florida! Below you’ll find a list of some of the Fishing Charters located in the marina and other nearby areas for both inshore and offshore fishing in the Clearwater Beach area!

Clearwater Beach Fishing Charters

Clearwater Beach Fishing Gear

If you’re on vacation in Clearwater Beach and didn’t pack your fishing gear, don’t worry, there are places to rent everything you need nearby! Here are some places to rent fishing equipment in Clearwater Beach, Florida.

Golf Courses Near Clearwater Beach, Florida - Cove Cay Golf Club

If you’re headed on vacation during these times with COVID-19, you are looking for areas with many outdoor activities that follow the social distancing recommendations. Clearwater Beach is a great place to be for that! The Clearwater Beach area offers large beaches with room to sit and play in your own areas, calm ocean waters to swim in, areas of kayaking or paddleboarding, and many golf courses near Clearwater Beach for more outdoor fun!

Closest Golf Courses Near Clearwater Beach by Time


Clearwater Country Club

15 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
525 N Betty Lane, Clearwater, FL 33755
(727) 446-9501

The Landings

18 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
1875 Airport Drive, Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 447-5272

Pinecrest Golf Club

19 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
1200 8th Ave. SW, Largo, FL 33770
(727) 584-6497

Largo Golf Course

23 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
12500 Vonn Road, Largo, FL 33774
(727) 518-3024

East Bay Golf Club

23 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
702 Country Club Drive, Largo, FL 33771
(727) 581-3333

Dunedin Golf Club

25 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
1050 Palm Boulevard, Dunedin, FL 34698
(727) 733-2134

Cove Cay Golf Club

27 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
2612 Cove Cay Drive, Clearwater, FL 33760
(727) 535-1406

Mainlands Golf Course

30 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
9445 Mainlands Boulevard W, Pinellas Park, FL 33782
(727) 577-4847

Bardmoor Golf & Tennis Club

32 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
8001 Cumberland Road, Seminole, FL 33777
(727) 392-1234

Seminole Lake Country Club

33 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
6100 Augusta Boulevard, Seminole, FL 33777
(727) 391-6255

Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club

34 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
3030 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, FL 33761
(727) 726-4673

Landsbrook Golf Club

37 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
4606 Village Center Drive, Palm Harbor, FL 34685
(727) 784-7333

Tarpon Springs Golf Course

38 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
1310 S. Pinellas Avenue, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
(727) 934-5191

Rocky Point Golf Course

38 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
4151 Dana Shores Drive, Tampa, FL 33634
(813) 673-4316

Mangrove Bay Golf Course

43 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
875 62nd Avenue NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
(727) 893-7800

Cypress Links Golf Course

43 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
875 62nd Avenue NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
(727) 551-3333

Westchase Golf Club

43 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
11602 Westchase Golf Drive, Tampa, FL 33626
(813) 854-2331

Twin Brooks Golf Course

45 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
3800 22nd Avenue S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711
(727) 893-7445

Rogers Park Golf Course

52 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
7910 N 30th Street, Tampa, FL 33610
(813) 356-1670

Babe Zaharias Golf Course

52 minutes from the Clearwater Beach Condos!
11412 Forest Hills Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
(813) 631-4374

Pebble Creek Golf Club

1 hour from the Clearwater Beach Condos.
10550 Regents Park Drive, Tampa, FL 33647
(813) 973-3870

20 Fun Outdoor Activities in the Tampa Bay Area

The Tampa Bay area is filled with fun outdoor activities for every age and interest!

1. Pier 60

Clearwater Beach, Florida is the #1 Best Beach in America and Pier 60 is the heart of America’s Best Beach. Pier 60 is full of family-friendly activities. There are large playground areas for the kids, fishing off the end of the pier, beautiful beach views, sugar-white soft sand, calm ocean waves, lifeguards nearby, large beach slides, and much more! Every day there is a Clearwater Beach Sunset Festival with local crafters selling their items, street performers, and often times live music. Pier 60 also is the location of many of the Clearwater Beach events including the Sugar Sand Festival. Stick around after sunset for free outdoor movies under the stars!

2. Caladesi Island / Honeymoon Island

Not far from Clearwater Beach you can find a totally different beach experience. You can find a much smaller beach with tree lines even touching into the ocean. This beautiful area provides almost private beach areas during the week. This area is known as Caladesi Island. There are two ways to access Caladesi Island. You can drive to Honeymoon Island in the Dunedin area and take a ferry to Caladesi Island, or you can walk to Caladesi Island from Clearwater Beach. It’s a long walk, but the directions are easy… just keep walking North on Clearwater Beach!

In my opinion, the best time to visit Caladesi Island is during the week. Look up days when the Ferry isn’t running and you’ll have the whole place to yourself!

3. Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is a “must-see Florida attraction” centrally located between Tampa and Orlando among rolling hills of citrus! Our nearly 50 acres of Olmsted gardens, 2.5-acre children’s garden Hammock Hollow, 20-room Pinewood Estate Mediterranean-style mansion, and the 205-foot art deco and neo-Gothic Singing Tower carillon is a place that has fascinated millions of Florida visitors.”

4. Hillsborough River State Park

Hillsborough River State Park is located just outside of Tampa, Florida, and is a beautiful escape from the busy city. The park offers over 7 miles of hiking trails, class II river rapids for kayaking and canoeing, and more!

5. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Theme Park is fun for the whole family! It provides some amazing rides and zoo experiences at the same time with many animals throughout the park. Travel across the world all in the same park!

6. Fort De Soto

“Whether you are sitting on the beach or kayaking near the still water’s edge at Fort De Soto, you find yourself absorbed in the abundance of natural beauty for as far as the eye can see. The complexity of the ecology is not immediately apparent, but the park offers the greatest diversity of systems just about anywhere. Emerging from the wealth of birdlife, sea life, wildlife, and plant life is the majestic tapestry called Fort De Soto.”

7. Zootampa

“Five-time winner of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence (2010-2015), ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the most popular zoos in the southeastern US, with over 1 million visitors annually. The Zoo originated in the 1930s as a municipal department with a small number of Florida native species. It grew gradually throughout the next four decades but struggled to meet the developing professional standards of modern zoos. In 1982, community leaders created the Lowry Park Zoo Association to take over management of the Zoo for the City of Tampa with the goal of creating a world-class zoo through a public-private partnership. The Association then became the Lowry Park Zoological Society of Tampa, Inc., as it remains today. Working with a national zoo designer, the Society was able to create a modern, 24-acre facility that opened to the public in 1988 and shortly after earned Accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). ZooTampa has now grown to what now encompasses 56 acres of naturalistic animal exhibits in a lush, tropical garden setting. The Zoo offers popular educational programming, fun recreational amenities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging seasonal events for which it has won accolades as one of the country’s most family-friendly zoos.”

8. Sunken Gardens

Sunken Gardens is a botanical paradise in the midst of a bustling city. As St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum, this 100-year-old garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region.

Unwind as you stroll through meandering paths, lush with exotic plants from around the world. Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful demonstration gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants, and flowers.”

9. Tampa Riverwalk

Walk around the waterfront in downtown Tampa and experience beautiful views, delicious restaurants, and more on the Tampa Riverwalk.

10. Dinosaur World

“Conveniently located between Orlando and Tampa in Plant City, Florida. Dinosaur World Florida is Central Florida’s only attraction dedicated to the giants of years past. Encounter a wide variety of dinosaurs in a unique, natural lush garden setting.”

Features dinosaur-themed playgrounds, beautiful outdoor areas, and more!

11. Ybor City

“There is so much more to explore in Ybor! It’s not just Tampa’s playground, it’s historically different with a thriving influx of growing corporations and small businesses, eclectic retail stores, diverse restaurants, and a growing number of new residential units for people calling Ybor City home.

Conveniently located just northeast of downtown, Ybor City is the only neighborhood on Florida’s west coast to be designated a National Historic Landmark District. Founded by Vicente Martinez-Ybor, the district has enjoyed a rich and diverse culture for more than a century.”

12. Ballast Point Park and Pier

“Name for the spot where arriving ships would off-load their ballast to enter the harbor, Ballast Point Park and Pier is located in a quiet neighborhood of South Tampa. It features a wonderful splash park for the kids, a large playground area, shade trees, and picnic tables. One of the most impressive features of the park is the view of the downtown skyline and Davis Islands. There is a long pier that juts out into the Bay and a conveniently located bait house if you wish to try your hand at fishing. Alternatively, you can grab a bite at the Taste of Boston restaurant. The food is good and you can sit outside and enjoy the views. There is also a boat dock and ramp.”

13. Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks

Head to Tarpon Springs, Florida for an amazing Greek experience! This Greek village is just north of Clearwater and is known for its historic sponge docks and its delicious and authentic Greek food!

14. Adventure Island

Adventure Island is a great water park in the Tampa Bay area featuring water slides, lazy rivers, pools, and more!

15. Whiskey Joe’s Beachbar & Grill

“When you think of Whiskey Joe’s, think of a warm tropical breeze, white sands, family fun, cold drinks, delicious grub, and killer sunsets. Whiskey Joe’s invites you to grab a couple of our famous tacos in the dining room, soak up some sunshine and sweet waterfront views on our patio or relax under a palapa on our large private beach.

Stop by for a coconut full of Hurricane Juice and put your feet in the sand at our World Famous Barefoot Bar. Cozy up to one of our fire pits after a great day in the Florida sun. However you decide to enjoy Whiskey Joe’s, you’ll feel like you’re miles away.

Whiskey Joe’s features delicious, localized dishes and a great bar scene, including 14 types of mojitos, 30 types of margaritas, and over 52 beers on tap at our Tampa location.”

16. Epperson Lagoon

“Over 7 acres in size and with crystal clear blue waters, there are endless ways for the whole family to enjoy the day at the Lagoon.

The Lagoon Day Pass gives you access to the nation’s first Crystal Lagoon®. Included with your visit is access to a tropical beach paradise, swimming in crystal clear water, family lawn games, beach toys, beach volleyball, access to swim-up bar, live entertainment & big screen TV viewing on select days. Food and beverages are available for purchase.”

17. Drive-in Movies

Go back in time and enjoy a drive-in movie at 5 different drive-in movie theaters in the Tampa Bay area!

18. Weeki Wachee Springs

Weeki Wachee is an enchanted spring where you can see live mermaids, take a trip on a riverboat cruise, learn about Florida wildlife, and swim in the pristine waters at Buccaneer Bay. You can also embark on a paddling adventure down the pristine waterway of the Weeki Wachee River.”

19. Urban Kai

Learn to Paddleboard and experience guided tours with Urban Kai! Choose from guided tours of the mangroves in St. Petersburg or through the waterways of downtown Tampa!

20. Tampa Bay Water Bike Company

“Come experience the City of Tampa the way it was meant to be seen: from the water!  Tampa Bay Water Bike Company offers one of the most exciting ways to explore Downtown Tampa and its waterways, all for as little as $30.”

Clearwater Beach Sailing

Clearwater Beach is more than soft white sand and beautiful sunsets. The calm, warm ocean waters of the Gulf of Mexico makes Clearwater Beach a great place to set sail. Sailing Clearwater Beach is a great way to relax and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of the area.

Schooner Clearwater

Enjoy “a true sailing experience on Clearwater Beach”. The Schooner Clearwater is a 52-foot long sailboat built in 2016. The beautiful boat can sail around Clearwater Beach with up to 50 people, but limits reservations to 22 passengers to keep the boat open and always promise a fun, relaxing experience.

The Schooner Clearwater offers a Clearwater Beach sailing cruise each day and a sunset sail in the evening. Each cruise is two hours long and leaves from the Clearwater Beach Marina. The direction and total distance of each sail are determined based on weather and wind speeds.

For larger events, the Schooner Clearwater is also open for private charters. Private charters can even include a small catering and beverage service as you are sailing Clearwater Beach.

Kai Lani Catamaran

Sail around Clearwater Beach and feel a light spray of the ocean through the open netting of the Kai Lani Catamaran. The Kai Lani Catamaran is a performance catamaran capable of reaching speeds of 20 knots. The Kai Lani Catamaran offers daily cruises and evening sunset cruises. These cruises can hold up to 41 passengers and serve beer and wine while sailing Clearwater Beach.

Clearwater Community Sailing Center

Instead of just enjoying a relaxing Clearwater Beach sailboat cruise, learn to sail yourself! Just across the bridge headed towards Sand Key, you’ll find the Clearwater Community Sailing Center. The Clearwater Community Sailing Center offers a one hour cruise with an instructor to teach you how to sail. The one-hour sailing lesson costs $100 for a group of 4 or smaller.

Private sailing lessons are also available. Private lessons cost $75/hour for a single person ($35/hour for any additional participants). The instructors at the Clearwater Community Sailing Center are fantastic and can quickly teach you to sail. The instructors feel most individuals feel comfortable sailing on their own within two to three hours.

Outside of learning to sail, you can learn how to windsurf, paddleboard, and more! You can also rent kayaks, stand up paddleboards, windsurfers and small sailboats and catamarans!

Sail Honeymoon Kayak & SUP Rentals

Sail the north side of Clearwater Beach by renting sailboats and trimarans from Sail Honeymoon Kayak & SUP Rentals. As the name says, they are more than just sailboats. Sail, kayak or paddle the water surrounding the north side of Clearwater Beach, Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island. After enjoying the beautiful area on the water, stop and taste the great food and drinks found in Dunedin, the town you drive through right before reaching the causeway to Honeymoon Island where Sail, Honeymoon Kayak & SUP Rentals is located.

Walk to Caladesi Island State Park

One of the reasons I love staying on the North Beach side of Clearwater Beach, Florida is that it makes it easier to walk to Caladesi Island State Park. Caladesi Island State Park is one of the completely natural islands along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The pristine Gulf Coast island is filled with mangroves, peaceful hiking trails and quiet, soft, white beaches with palm trees even touching the calm waves of the ocean.

There are only two ways to get to Caladesi Island. You can take a 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island or you can walk to Caladesi Island from Clearwater Beach, Florida!

Yes, you can walk from Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island. The two islands weren’t always connected, but they are now. The islands used to be separated by Dunedin Pass. In the 1980s sand began to accumulate, narrowing the pass. Then in 1985, Hurricane Elena rolled up the Gulf Coast of Florida, sealing the pass completely. With Dunedin Pass sealed, Clearwater Beach and Caladesi Island became connected, making it possible to walk from Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island.

The walk to Caladesi Island State Park from Clearwater Beach is beautiful, but it isn’t a short walk. Before setting out to walk from Clearwater to Caladesi Island, you should pack a small bag with water and a snack. If you’re staying on the North Side of Clearwater Beach (at or near Surfside Condominiums or the Villas of Clearwater Beach) the walk to Caladesi Island State Park is ~2.2 miles. That’s just the “entrance” of Caladesi Island State Park. I say “entrance” because it is only marked with a sign on the beach.

Caladesi Island State Park has public bathrooms and a small snack bar available towards the middle of the island. That area of Caladesi Island is just over a 3-mile walk. While the public bathrooms are always open, the snack bar may not be, so be sure to pack some water.

One of my favorite things about Caladesi Island is walking to the end of the beach on the north side of the island. It is an incredibly beautiful and peaceful area. With all of Caladesi and Clearwater Beach behind you, you can sit in the soft sand and watch boats travel in and out of Hurricane Pass, the pass separating Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island. With Caladesi Island being so narrow, you can easily tell you’re sitting on the furthest north part of the island. The beautiful view will leave you with a strong sense of accomplishment since it’s a far walk, and you can’t walk any further. From the North Beach area of Clearwater Beach, it’s a ~4.5-mile walk to get there.

Clearwater Beach Shells

Tips for the walk to Caladesi Island State Park

  • Pack some water and a snack.
  • Bring some sunscreen so you can reapply while you’re on the beach hike.
  • Check the weather before you go and avoid any pop-up rain showers.
  • Start the walk as it is transitioning from high tide to low tide. That way you’ll be able to make it there and back before it’s high tide. (I made this mistake once. One part of the walk to Caladesi Island involves walking past a small line of trees that touch the ocean waves even during low tide. Hit this area during high tide and instead of a cool wave washing across your toes, you may be knee-deep. This short part can be avoided by following a trail that leaves the beach, but the trail can hold water after rains as well.)

How much does it cost to visit Caladesi Island State Park?

By Walking…

  • $2 per person. Please pay at the ranger station.

By Boat…

  • $6 per boat (up to eight people); $2 for each additional person
  • $2 per kayaker

By Ferry from Honeymoon Island…

  • Entrance to Honeymoon Island: $8 per vehicle (2 to 8 people)
  • Entrance to Honeymoon Island: $4 single-occupant vehicle
  • Entrance to Honeymoon Island: $2 pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass
  • Caladesi Connection Ferry fees: $16 per adult
  • Caladesi Connection Ferry fees: $8 for children ages 6 to 12
  • Caladesi Connection Ferry fees: Children 5 and under are free
  • No pets are allowed on the ferry

For updated costs, visit: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/caladesi-island-state-park