Clearwater Beach Activities

Brad Wester

Worth The Drive – The Dali Museum

,

Some of the most popular day trips for Clearwater Beach visitors are to places such as Walt Disney World and Crystal River, but not all day trips involve leaving the Tampa Bay area. You can visit places like Tarpon Springs, Dunedin and Caladesi Island all with a short drink, boat ride or even a long walk. While these areas are best visited on beautiful sunny days, where do you go on a rainy day? You can visit Salvador Dali himself at The Dali Museum!

Salvador Dali - The Dali Museum

The Dali Museum

The Dali Museum is located 45 minutes from the beachfront condos in Clearwater Beach. The Museum sits on the edge of Tampa Bay in St. Petersburg, Florida. The building itself is a beautiful structure. The large strict lines of the concrete structure are split by large glass windows known as the Enigma. “This geodesic sculpture constructed of 1,062 separate panes provides a kaleidoscopic view and summons you to explore Dali’s key philosophy: view the world from every possible perspective.” Beyond making the building beautiful, the glass windows provide an amazing view from within of Tampa Bay and the outside gardens that are filled with artwork matching Dali’s artistic vision.

Inside The Dali Museum, you’ll find a gallery filled with stunning art created by Salvador Dali in his surrealist views. You’ll have the chance to observe Dali’s creative objects, prints, photographs, works on paper, paintings and book illustrations.

You’ll also have an extremely unique opportunity to see and hear Dali share his observations on current events and sharing insight on what motivated his work through the Dali Lives exhibition, a truly amazing experience developed through artificial intelligence. Learn more about this amazing opportunity, including getting a selfie taken by Dali himself in the video below.

In addition to Dali Lives, if you choose to visit The Dali Museum on a weekend you’ll have a chance to enjoy Little Surrealist Tour for children ages 4-11 on Saturdays. On Sunday mornings you can experience Yoga at The Dali and Mimosas & Masterpieces: Brunch at The Dali.

If you don’t have time to for a day trip to The Dali Museum, you can experience the Dreams of Dali Pop Up in Downtown Clearwater! The Pop Up only lasts until June 20, 2019. The goal is to fully immerse you in Dali’s views through VR.

/0 Comments/by
Brad Wester

Clearwater Beach Weather & Events – June 2019

, , ,
Clearwater Beach Weather and Events 2019

Clearwater Beach Weather June 2019

Clearwater Beach summer vacation time is here! The weather is in the 80°s and so is the water temperature! The warm weather mixed with the warm water makes it a great time of year to get out and play in the ocean! Swim around, rent a jet ski from the beach or head out for a sail! If playing in the ocean isn’t for you; enjoy relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun in the warm weather. The average Clearwater Beach temperature in June is a beautiful 84°, but the direct sun may make it feel much warmer. Be sure to protect your skin, stay hydrated, and cool off in the pool!

Clearwater Beach Events June 2019

Clearwater Beach Sunset Cinema Schedule

Enjoy a movie under the stars! Head to Pier 60’s sunset festival and stay for a free movie after sunset on these days!

June 1, 2019: On the Basis of Sex (PG-13)
June 7, 2019: Mulan (G)
June 8, 2019: Second Act (PG-13)
June 14, 2019: Mary Poppins Returns (PG)
June 15, 2019: Holmes and Watson (PG-13)
June 21, 2019: Bumblebee (PG-13)
June 22, 2019: The Upside (PG-13)

Clearwater Farmers Market: featuring local vendors, fresh produce and more! The Clearwater Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 1 PM to 4 PM.

Dreams of Dali Virtual Reality Experience: Now through June 30th.

“This immersive experience will transport you into Salvador Dalí’s surrealist painting Archaeological Reminiscence of Millet’s “Angelus.” Come get a sneak peek of the fantastical and surreal experiences The Dalí Museum has to offer as you go inside – and beyond – one of Salvador Dalí’s masterpieces.” Learn more!

Free and open on… Wednesdays and Thursdays: 11 AM – 7 PM Fridays: 12 PM – 9 PM Saturdays and Sundays: 10 AM – 5 PM

TNBA Championship & Convention: May 23, 2019 through June 2, 2019

ICB Baseball State Championship: June 1, 2019 through June 2, 2019.

NSA West Coast Regionals: June 1, 2019 through June 2, 2019.

Game Ready Scout Day Summer Classic HS Showcase: June 21, 2019 through June 23, 2019.

Global Sports Alliance World Series: June 26, 2019 through June 30, 2019.

Events Near Clearwater Beach – June 2019

A Feast for the Eyes Exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts St. Pete: Now – July 28, 2019.

Brocante Market: June 1, 2019 – November 2019.

CVST Tampa Bay Swim Classic: May 31, 2019 – June 2, 2019.

Grand Central District Beer Day: June 1, 2019.

Theo Wujcik: Cantos Exhibition at Museum of Fine Arts St. Pete: Now through June 2, 2019.

Mimosas & Masterpieces: Brunch at the Dali: Weekly on Sundays.

Sunday Z-Brunch at Castile Restaurant: Weekly on Sundays.

$10 Tuesday at the James Museum: Weekly on Tuesdays.

Royal Palm Market: Weekly on Thursdays.

First Friday St. Pete: First Friday of each month.

Friday Night Clay at Morean Center for Clay: Weekly on Fridays.

Friday Nights at the St. Pete Shuffleboard Club: Weekly on Fridays.

Gulfport Art & Gallery Walk: First Friday and Third Saturday of each month.

Nerf Battle Tournament: June 8, 2019.

Second Saturday’s at Sirata: Second Saturday of each month.

St. Pete Brunch Crawl: June 8, 2019.

St. Pete Second Saturday Artwalk: Second Saturday of each month.

RumFish Beach Resort Rays Watch Party: June 9, 2019.

Yoga on Tap at Green Bench Brewing: Second Saturday of each month.

2nd Friday’s in Dunedin: Second Saturday of each month.

Moonlight Canopy Tours: June 14, 2019 through December 14, 2019.

Opa! Palooza: June 14, 2019 through June 15, 2019.

Sun til Moon Clash Soccer Tournament: June 14, 2019 through June 16, 2019.

Free Yoga at Sundial St. Pete: Third Saturday of each month.

Powerboat P1 Races at St. Pete Beach: June 15, 2019 through June 16, 2019.

St. Pete Pride Kick-off Party: June 19, 2019.

Cocktails & Collections at the Museum of Fine Arts: Third Thursday of each month.

Stonewall St. Pete Pride Reception: June 20, 2019.

Beach Blonde Block Party at 3 Daughters Brewing: June 21, 2019.

Chris McCarty Largo Live Concert Series: June 21, 2019.

Safety Harbor’s 3rd Friday Music Series: Third Friday of each month.

St. Pete Pride SP2 Concert: June 21, 2019.

St. Pete Street Food & Craft Beer Fest: June 21, 2019.

LGBTQ+ St. Pete Pride Parade: June 22, 2019.

Post-Pride Parade Concert: June 22, 2019.

Splash & Dash Youth Biathlon: June 22, 2019.

Arkane Aleworks 3 Year Anniversary: June 29, 2019.

Tarpon Springs ‘Night in the Island’: June 29, 2019.

/0 Comments/by
Brad Wester

Clearwater Beach Lifeguard

, ,

Clearwater Beach is known as a family-friendly beach. It is beautiful. The soft white sand and the typically calm waves of the Gulf of Mexico make a wonderful place for families of all ages to relax and play. As you walk the beach, you’ll see the Clearwater Beach lifeguard towers frequently placed both on the south and north sides of Pier 60.

During my last trip to Clearwater Beach, I was walking past the lifeguard towers on the beach and wondered “Do the lifeguards here love it as much as I do?”

So I decided to ask…

Interview with a Clearwater Beach Lifeguard

I spoke with Rachel Lersch, a Clearwater Beach Lifeguard. Rachel grew up as a Clearwater Beach local but recently moved to Fort Myers to work full time as an Assistant Project Manager for a civil engineering company.

Rachel: “I come back to Clearwater almost every weekend to work. Usually, when I share with people that I drive two hours to work my weekend job, everyone is shocked. I was born and raised in Clearwater so not only do I come home (to my first home) to work but I also use my off time to see my friends and family that live here… It’s a win, win for me! I truly love being a Clearwater Beach lifeguard and the distance does not bother me.

What I love about being a Clearwater Beach lifeguard is not just my job as a lifeguard but my co-workers that have turned into family. My boss is one of a kind. He is the type of boss that loves what he does and it shows through his hard-working employees. He has taught me so much! I know I can always count on my Clearwater Beach family to have my back no matter what and that type of work environment cannot be beaten! It is the number one reason I am not leaving Clearwater to lifeguard the beaches in Fort Myers. I know nothing can compare!”

Brad: Clearwater Beach is known as a wonderful, family-friendly beach. Do you have any advice for parents bringing their kids to the beach? What they should bring or not bring, any safety tips?

Rachel: “Clearwater Beach is a great family beach with over a mile of a lifeguarded swim area. There are rental cabanas, umbrellas, and chairs set up for public use. There are activities for children near Pier 60, inflatable slides, concessions, playground area, ice cream shop, and outdoor showers. You are allowed to bring your own cooler, umbrellas, and tents, as long as the tents are not too close to the water and blocking the lifeguards’ view of the shoreline.

What to bring: towels, sand & water toys, drinks & snacks, chairs… don’t worry if you forget anything there are shops nearby that offer all the things I listed. What not to bring: alcohol, glass, dogs, and drones.

When getting in the water be sure to shuffle your feet to avoid stepping on stingrays. The stingray season is from April – October but they are occasionally present other months of the year. If you’re not sure of something, ask a lifeguard! We love answering questions and helping whenever we can. Safety and preventive safety is what we lifeguards live by. When at the beach, the best thing to do is to check what color flag is flying, be aware of what is going on around you and always listen to the lifeguards’ whistle and directions. We want everyone to have a fun, safe day at beautiful Clearwater Beach.”

Brad: What do the different flag colors mean?

Rachel: “Green: Low Hazard. Most of the time, on Clearwater Beach, we fly the Green flag. Conditions, for the most part, are good at Clearwater. Calm waters, sunny days!

Yellow: Medium Hazard. We will fly the yellow flag when there are possibilities of rip currents and rougher than normal waves. As a caution to the beachgoers to be prepared.

Red: High Hazard. We will fly the red flag when there are sever conditions. Rip currents, high surf, strong and rough waves are present.

Double Red: Water is closed. When the double red is flying we will whistle everyone to get out and stay out of the water!

Purple: Dangerous Marine Life. We will fly the purple flags if we know there are stingrays, jellyfish or other possible dangers present.

Brad: Is there a part of Clearwater Beach that is better for families?”

Rachel: “South of Pier 60 tends to be busier than North Beach but overall the whole beach is great for families or a beach day by yourself. During the month of March, Pier 60 and South Beach is usually full of spring breakers and it may not be an ideal beach day for the family during that time. My favorite part of Clearwater beach is North Beach, where it is usually much quieter. I have to say my all-time favorite spot is sitting in any of the 7 Lifeguard towers on Clearwater Beach!”

Brad: What are your favorite things about Clearwater Beach?

Rachel: “My favorite things about Clearwater beach is how beautiful it is and there are lots of things to do. Across from Pier 60 is the Marina where they have boat rides and Jet Ski rentals. There is also Jet Ski rentals and parasailing on the beach North of Pier 60 between towers 5 & 7. There are many places to eat and relax. They also have a Marine Aquarium not far from the beach. During the year they have various events held at the beach like the Sugar Sand Festival, Clearwater Super boat races, Taste Fest & Uncorked Food & Wine Festival to name a few. In my opinion, there is something for everyone on Clearwater Beach!”

Brad: What about a favorite place to eat?

Rachel: “If you ask any local on the beach this question… I’m pretty sure the first thing they will say is Frenchy’s. My number one answer to this question is Frenchy’s! Their food is awesome! I have been going to Frenchy’s since I was a kid. I absolutely love their “she crab soup”! If you are looking for a quieter place Pearly’s Beach Eats is my new favorite. I love the atmosphere, along with their yummy tacos and delicious ice cream that comes in a little coconut! It’s addicting.

If you’re looking for views with your food, Jimmy’s Crow’s Nest or Marina Cantina are my two favorites!

Breakfast… cannot forget breakfast! In my opinion… ClearSky Café has THE BEST breakfast in town. Seriously! They have something for everyone. Their selection is great! My personal favorite is any of their French Toasts… YUM!”

Brad: Thank you, Rachel, for taking the time to share your experience with us as a Clearwater Beach local and lifeguard!

Rachel: “Thank you for visiting the one and only Clearwater beach, the place we love to call our home. All of us that work the beach do it because we absolutely love being here. We care about public safety and keeping our waters safe. Working for Clearwater Beach has opened so many doors for me and I am blessed to work for a great city.”

Tampa Bay Frogman Swim

In addition to working as a full-time assistant project manager in Fort Myers and part-time Clearwater Beach lifeguard, Rachel also volunteers with the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim. “The Frogman Swim is a 5K open water swim in the Tampa Bay! We strive to bring awareness to the Navy Special Warfare community and support the Navy SEAL Foundation. People from all over raise money for this cause and swim 5K in freezing (Florida) January water for the Navy SEAL Foundation. Their mission is to provide immediate and ongoing support and assistance to the Naval Special Warfare community and their families. 100% of our proceeds go directly to the Foundation to help the families of our fallen heroes.

I love being a part of this organization, it is humbling to know I am doing a small part to help our service men and woman and their families when they sacrifice everything for our country’s freedom. This is special to my heart because my significant other is a proud member of the US Army and deployed to Iraq in 2016. Our support means more than words can explain to these families so if you feel in your heart you would like to contribute please reach out through the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim website or Facebook page!”

/0 Comments/by
Brad Wester

Worth The Drive – Disney World

, ,
Clearwater Beach to Disney World

Clearwater Beach, Florida is a wonderful place for family-friendly summer vacations. Kids will love playing on the beach, in the warm ocean water, at the pool and even having the chance to meet Winter the dolphin and learning all about the local marine life at the Clearwater Aquarium. While there’s more than enough to do directly on Clearwater Beach, your kids may be asking about another Florida activity – Walt Disney World!

Clearwater Beach to Disney World

Disney World isn’t a quick half day trip, but it can easily be added on as an additional day for your family vacation. You can step out of the sand on Clearwater Beach and be at Disney World in less than two hours! Clearwater Beach to Disney World is only an hour and 40-minute drive!

In no time at all you will be having fun and enjoying classic rides such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, It’s a Small World and amazing experiences like Avatar Flight of Passage and Jurassic Park River Adventure! With the parks so full of so many fun rides and attractions, it can be very tough to get to everything your family wants to do. TouringPlans is here to help!

TouringPlans offers trip planning tools to Walt Disney World to “show you the least crowded park to visit every day, customized touring plans for visiting Disney’s best rides, honest restaurant reviews, how to save on Disney tickets, the best hotel rooms to ask for, and so much more.” If you’re only able to get to Disney World for a single day, having a plan before you go will make the day less stressful, and a lot more fun by cutting down on time spent waiting in lines.

/0 Comments/by
Brad Wester

Clearwater Beach Weather & Events – May 2019

, , ,
Clearwater Beach Weather & Events - May 2019

Clearwater Beach Weather May 2019

May is a beautiful time to visit Clearwater Beach, Florida! The weather reaches into the 80°s during the day and only drops into the 70°s in the evening. Beautiful warm weather with very little rain makes for a great day at the beach and beautiful sunsets.

The warm air temperature is matched with warming ocean waters. The average May sea temperature in Clearwater Beach is in the upper 70°s. Take a swim to cool off from the warm sun. Remember to shuffle your feet to avoid stingrays hanging out in the shallow water as it warms up!

Clearwater Beach Events May 2019

Clearwater Beach Sunset Cinema Schedule

Enjoy a movie under the stars! Head to Pier 60’s sunset festival and stay for a free movie after sunset on these days!

May 4, 2019: Coco (PG)
May 10, 2019: Brave (PG)
May 11, 2019: Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! (PG-13)
May 17, 2019: A Dog’s Way Home (PG)
May 18, 2019: Welcome to Marwen: PG-13)
May 24, 2019: Aquaman (NR)
May 25, 2019: Isn’t It Romantic? (PG-13)
May 31, 2019: Solo: A Star Wars Story

Clearwater Farmers Market: featuring local vendors, fresh produce and more! The Clearwater Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 1 PM to 4 PM.

Dreams of Dali Virtual Reality Experience: Now through June 30th.

“This immersive experience will transport you into Salvador Dalí’s surrealist painting Archaeological Reminiscence of Millet’s “Angelus.” Come get a sneak peek of the fantastical and surreal experiences The Dalí Museum has to offer as you go inside – and beyond – one of Salvador Dalí’s masterpieces.” Learn more!

Free and open on…
Wednesdays and Thursdays: 11 AM – 7 PM
Fridays: 12 PM – 9 PM
Saturdays and Sundays: 10 AM – 5 PM

Clearwater Beach Taste Fest: May 3, 2019

Come down to Pier 60 and celebrate the 10th annual Clearwater Beach Taste Fest! From 6 PM to 9 PM enjoy tasting the fine cuisine from many of the local restaurants, craft beer and wine all with live entertainment right on the beach!

Clearwater Music and Arts Festival: May 25, 2019 through May 26, 2019

Head into downtown Clearwater and enjoy Outlaw Nation’s Clearwater Music & Arts Festival! Admission is free with music from national recording artists, professional artists, classic cars, muscle car and trucks, custom motorcycles, fireworks and more!

NSA Iron Women Tournament: May 4, 2019 through May 5, 2019

USA Water Polo Clearwater Beach Challenge: May 17, 2019 through May 19, 2019

AAC Baseball Championship: May 21, 2019 through May 26, 2019

TNBA Championship & Convention: May 23, 2019 through June 2, 2019

USA Softball Clearwater Memorial Qualifier: May 25, 2019 through May 26, 2019

Events Near Clearwater Beach – May 2019

A Feast for the Eyes Exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts St. Pete: Now – July 28, 2019.

American Stage in the Park: Mamma Mia!: Now through May 12, 2019.

Magritte and Dali: Now through May 19, 2019.

Theo Wujcik: Cantos Exhibition at Museum of Fine Arts St. Pete: Now – June 2, 2019.

Spring King of the Beach Fishing Tournament: May 2, 2019 through May 4, 2019.

Yom HaShoah Commemoration & Free Museum Admission: May 2, 2019.

First Friday St. Pete: May 3, 2019 (First Friday of each month).

Friday Nights at the St. Pete Shuffleboard Club: Every Friday.

Dunedin Food Tour: Every Saturday.

Free Yoga in the Park: May 4, 2019 (First Saturday of each month).

Kentucky Derby Formal at Intermezzo: May 4, 2019.

Salsa Cinco de Mayo: May 4, 2019.

Mimosas & Masterpieces – Brunch at the Dali: Every Sunday.

Sunday Z-Brunch at Castile Restaurant: Every Sunday.

$10 Tuesday at the James Museum: Every Tuesday.

Movies in the Park – Groundhog Day: May 9, 2019.

Avenue Q: May 10, 2019 through May 19, 2019.

Pints & Poses at Crooked Thumb: Every second and fourth Saturday.

Second Saturday’s at Sirata: Every second Saturday.

Mother’s Day Beach Yoga & Mimosas: May 12, 2019.

Yoga on Tap at Green Bench Brewing: May 12, 2019 (Every second Sunday).

Cocktails & Collections at the Museum of Fine Arts: Every third Thursday.

Movies in the Park – Ghost: May 16, 2019.

Soul Circus Cowboys: May 17, 2019.

Suor Angelica & Gianni Schicchi: May 17, 2019 through May 21, 2019.

Free Yoga at Sundial St. Pete: Every third Saturday.

Tarpon Springs ‘Night in the Islands’: May 18, 2019.

Movies in the Park – La La Land: May 23, 2019.

Movies in the Park – The Lorax: May 30, 2019.

/0 Comments/by
Brad Wester

Sailing Clearwater Beach, Florida

, ,
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.

/0 Comments/by
Brad Wester

How to Build a Sandcastle

, ,
How to Build a Sandcastle - Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach, the Best Beach in the United States (and the 6th Best Beach in the world!), is known for its soft white sand beaches. The sand, as soft as sugar, makes the perfect environment for walking on the beach, lounging in the warm sun and building sandcastles!

Sandcastle Building Tips

Bring Needed Tools

  • Bucket
  • Shovel
  • Offset Spatula

These three items, or similar items, are needed. The bucket will be used for moving both water and sand. If you have an option to bring more than one bucket, do so. Variable sizes of the buckets may also be helpful.

A shovel will be needed to dig and pack sand. A small shovel is okay, but if you are building a very large sandcastle you’ll be able to save time with a large shovel.

An offset spatula can be replaced with many other small items. It will be used to help trim, smooth and add decorated detail to the sand castle.

If you have other tools that may be helpful, bring them with you. If you’re just getting started with building sandcastles, the classic sandcastle buckets can be a great starting place to quickly build small, fun, sandcastles like the picture above.

Step One: Foundation

The first thing you need to do is to select a location and build a strong foundation for the sandcastle. You’ll want to be near the water. This will provide shorter trips for water and more dense sand to build on. Be careful not to build too close to the water that a larger wave could wash away your structure before it’s even finished! You may also want to keep an eye on when the tides are shifting. A rising tide may quickly bring those waves closer and closer to your sandcastle.

Once you have a location chosen, start digging a large circle. It will serve as a backup moat to protect the castle from any surprise waves. The sand removed should be tossed into a large pile in the center of the circle.

Once you have a large pile of sand in the center of the circle, you’ll turn the pile into a volcano shape. Pack the sand together tightly with an edged crater at the top. Slowly pour water into the crater and wait for it to drain down through the pile of sand. Patting the “volcano” on all sides, including through the water on the top, to form a dense sand base.

Step Two: Structure

With the base formed, it’s time to start building the overall structure of your sandcastle. Grab your bucket and fill it almost full of water. Then start adding sand to the bucket of water. You always want to add sand to water, not water to sand. Adding sand to water puts you in control of the density needed. As you add more sand, the water will start flowing over the top of the bucket and that is fine. Continue adding sand. As you add sand, lightly shake and the bucket and tap on the sides of the bucket. This will force any air bubbles out and help improve the density of the sand.

Once the bucket is full of dense wet sand, flip it over and position it on the foundation. Let sit for a few moments and then slowly pull the bucket away. If you’re adding multiple layers of foundations. Use the largest buckets at the bottom and then smaller bucket ontop of the large bucket.

If you only have one bucket. Put two or more “towers” right next to each other. Then add in sloppy wet sand by hand in between the towers, connecting them. Then add another bucket ontop of these to form another layer.

Step Three: Carve and Detail

Begin carving your design into the structure. Removing large amounts first and moving from the top down. Then begin adding in more features including designs from the top down. Start with a roof, then walls, and finish with the base. Then do the same process again focusing on smaller details each time you move from the top to the bottom so the sand does not fill in small areas below it as you work.

Step Four: Clean and Perfect

The last step is to clean any major errors. Cleaning major messes and leaving some small design mistakes can help it look like it is made of stone and has a few cracks. Continue moving from the top down, leaving flaws is okay but down leave large piles of soft sand where they don’t belong.

Look at the base of the sandcastle and make any adjustments there as well. One way to finish the sandcastle is to flatten the surrounding area and then lightly dust the area with soft sand.

The most important thing!

Have fun! Mistakes happen, take your time and enjoy the beautiful day.

As a VERY amateur sandcastle creator, these are the best tips I can give you. If you happen to be in Clearwater Beach in April, check out all the amazing, large and professional sand castles and sculptures at The Sugar Sand Festival located at Pier 60. Pier 60’s Sugar Sand Festival includes a 21,000 square foot event space on the beach filled with sand castles and sculptures. The celebration of Clearwater Beach’s soft sand continues outside the event space with live music, fireworks, kid’s play zones, sand sculpting classes and more!

If you have any tips for building sandcastles, please leave them in a comment below!

/0 Comments/by
Brad Wester

Clearwater Beach Weather & Events – April 2019

, , ,
Clearwater Beach Weather & Events April 2019

Clearwater Beach Weather April 2019

It’s Spring Break! Enjoy the soft sand in the warm weather! Perfect for building sand castles at the beach, or even professionally built sandcastles at The Sugar Sand Festival! The Clearwater Beach weather in April has highs in the upper 70°s and touching into the 80°s at times, with lows only dropping into the 60°s.

Clearwater Beach Events April 2019

Clearwater Beach Sunset Cinema Schedule

Enjoy a movie under the stars! Head to Pier 60’s sunset festival and stay for a free movie after sunset on these days!

April 5th: The Miracle Season (PG)
April 6th: Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (PG-13)
April 12th: Cars 2 (G)
April 13th: Jurassic World (PG-13)
April 19th: Beauty And The Beast (PG) 2017
April 20th: Peter Rabbit (PG)
April 22nd: Wall-E (G)
April 23rd: Aquaman (PG-13)
April 26th: Finding Dory (PG)
April 27th: Crazy Rich Asian’s (PG-13)

Clearwater Farmers Market: featuring local vendors, fresh produce and more! The Clearwater Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 1 PM to 4 PM.

Dreams of Dali Virtual Reality Experience: Now through June 30th.

“This immersive experience will transport you into Salvador Dalí’s surrealist painting Archaeological Reminiscence of Millet’s “Angelus.” Come get a sneak peek of the fantastical and surreal experiences The Dalí Museum has to offer as you go inside – and beyond – one of Salvador Dalí’s masterpieces.” Learn more!

Free and open on…
Wednesdays and Thursdays: 11 AM – 7 PM
Fridays: 12 PM – 9 PM
Saturdays and Sundays: 10 AM – 5 PM

Rock the Yacht – Spring Break Edition:

Spring Break Yacht party cruises around Clearwater Beach featuring live DJs! Ages 18+ with cash bars on the yacht! More info and tickets available now!

April 5, 2019 – Board 9:30 PM, Cruise 10 PM through Midnight
April 12, 2019 – Board 9:30 PM, Cruise 10 PM through Midnight
April 26, 2019 – Board 9:30 PM, Cruise 10 PM through Midnight

The Price Is Right Live!

“Come on down!” to the Price Is Right live at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater! April 2, 2019 and April 3, 2019.

Sea Turtle Awareness Day on Clearwater Beach

Meet up with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium at Pier 60 to learn about sea turtle nesting season and how to protect them. Saturday, April 6th from 8 AM until 1 PM.

Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival

Clearwater Beach’s Sugar Sand Festival has been extended to be a 17-day event this year! From April 12 through April 28th, head to Pier 60 to join in the celebration! See the beautiful and large sandcastles and sand sculptures in the 21,000 square foot event space on the beach! The party continues outside the event space with live music, fireworks, kid’s play zones, sand sculpting classes and more!

PBA50 Johnny Petraglia BVL Open

April 14, 2019 through April 17, 2019.

Ken Jeong at Ruth Eckerd Hall

April 20, 2019.

Events Near Clearwater Beach – April 2019

A Feast for the Eyes Exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts St. Pete: Now through July 28, 2019.

GLOW: The Hand-Painted Photographs of E. G. Barnhill: Now through April 7, 2019.

Innisbrook Tennis Open: March 31, 2019 through April 7, 2019.

Magritte and Dali: Now through May 19, 2019.

$10 Tuesday at the James Museum: Every Tuesday!

Champions Classic Tennis Tournament: April 4, 2019.

Boys & Girls Club National Swim Meet: April 5, 2019 through April 7, 2019.

Friday Night Clay at Morean Center for Clay: Every Friday!

Friday nights at the St. Pete Shuffleboard Club: Every Friday!

Safety Harbor SongFest: April 5, 2019 through April 7, 2019.

Dunedin Food Tour: Every Saturday!

Dunedin Scottish Highland Games: April 6, 2019.

Free Yoga in the Park: April 6, 2019 – First Saturday of each month.

Paddle The Bay: April 6, 2019.

Orchid Festival: April 7, 2019.

American Stage in the Park: Mamma Mia!: April 10, 2019 through May 12, 2019.

SunLit Festival: April 11, 2019 through April 28, 2019.

2nd Friday’s in Dunedin: April 12, 2019 – Every 2nd Friday!

Moonlight Canopy Tours: April 12, 2019 through December 14, 2019.

Tampa Bay Blues Festival: April 12, 2019 through April 14, 2019.

Florida Cup: April 13, 2019.

Florida SUP Cup: April 13, 2019.

Los Vinos de Dali: April 14, 2019.

Mimosas & Masterpieces: Brunch at the Dali: Every Sunday!

AJGA Bishops Gate Golf Academy Junior Championship: April 17, 2019 through April 21, 2019.

Cocktails & Collections at the Museum of Fine Arts: April 18, 2019 – Every third Thursday of the month.

Santana at Al Lang Stadium: April 18, 2019.

St. Pete Wing & Craft Beer Fest: April 19, 2019.

Free Yoga at Sundial St. Pete: April 20, 2019 – Every Third Saturday of the month.

Mainsail Art Festival: April 20, 2019 through April 21, 2019.

AAC Men’s Golf Championship: April 21, 2019 through April 23, 2019.

IRB Beach Fest: April 21, 2019.

Sunscreen Film Festival: April 25, 2019 through April 28, 2019.

St. Anthony’s Triathlon: April 27, 2019 through April 28, 2019.

/0 Comments/by
Brad Wester

Worth The Drive – Dunedin, Florida

, ,
Worth The Drive - Dunedin, Florida

Just north of Clearwater Beach, you’ll find Dunedin, Florida. Located less than 30 minutes from Clearwater Beach, Dunedin is known for its delicious food paired with a relaxed, friendly small town atmosphere.

Take a break from lounging in the sand on Clearwater Beach and take a day trip to Dunedin, Florida. One of the best ways to experience Dunedin is through the Dunedin Food Tour. You’ll get a chance to sample some of the amazing foods and drinks in the area. The food tour is kept small, limited to 12 people. The small tour allows for the opportunity to personally interact with the owners, chefs, and brewers at the local businesses. Along with food and drink tastings, you’ll get a chance to experience the wonderful town and hear about its history as you stroll between the local restaurants and breweries.

After lunch, you can catch the causeway across to Honeymoon Island and even a ferry to Caladesi Island. Dunedin provides great access to these beautiful, white sand beaches. Enjoy spending time on the water? You can Rent a kayak from a small shop located on the causeway. Spend some time paddling across St. Joseph Sound and around the beautiful mangroves of Caladesi Island.

After a lunch tour and an afternoon on the water, enjoy a luxurious dinner at Bon Appétit Restaurant. Bon Appétit Restaurant is a fine dining experience sitting on the water of St. Joseph Sound. The restaurant features beautiful views and a blend of European and American food. Bon Appétit Restaurant has been voted Tampa Bay’s Best Waterfront Restaurant because it offers unique cuisine, waterfront tables with sunset views and parking available for not only cars but also boats.

If you’re in the area around Spring Break, catch a Spring Training baseball game! Dunedin hosts the Toronto Blue Jays for Spring Training each year.

/1 Comment/by
Brad Wester

Frenchy’s Clearwater Beach Pub Crawl

, ,
Frenchy's Clearwater Beach Pub Crawl 2

Spring Break is almost here! As the temperature warms up, you may be looking for a cold drink! While there are many great places to grab a drink, Frenchy’s has a unique offer! Go on a Clearwater Beach pub crawl! Grab a drink at each of Frenchy’s Clearwater Beach restaurants and get a free T-shirt!

How the Clearwater Beach Pub Crawl Works

If you’re 21 or older, stop by any Frenchy’s Restaurant on Clearwater Beach and request a “Frenchy’s Passport to Paradise Cocktail Challenge” card. This card will give you more information about the challenge, locations of each restaurant, the specialty drinks to order, and where to get your free t-shirt at the end of the challenge. Hold on to “Passport”! It needs to be stamped after each drink to earn your T-shirt.

You’ll need to go to each Frenchy’s restaurant on Clearwater Beach and order each location’s specialty drink. You can go through the restaurants in any order, and even split into separate days if needed. Enjoy the refreshing drinks, sample some food along the way and remember to have your “Passport” stamped from each location before leaving!

Frenchy’s Location & Specialty Drinks

Frenchy’s Original Cafe: Island Mojito

“Pineapple infused rum with fresh lime and orange and muddled mint.”

Frenchy’s Salt Water Cafe: Mango Delight

“Tropical mango blended with passion fruit liqueur and island rum. Served frozen!”

Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill: Rockaway Rum Runner

“Imported island rums, tropical fruit juices with blackberry brandy and banana liqueur makes this the best rum runner on the beach!”

Frenchy’s South Beach Cafe: South Beach Sunset

“Orange Juice blended with Absolut Mango, banana liqueur & a touch of grenadine”.

Frenchy’s Off The Hook Gift Shop

Once you have enjoyed the specialty drinks from all four of Frenchy’s Restaurants and have your “passport” stamped at each location, stop by Frenchy’s Off The Hook Gift Shop to pick up your free T-Shirt!

While you can go to the restaurants in any order, ending your Clearwater Beach pub crawl at Frenchy’s Original Cafe makes it easy to pick up your free T-shirt at the gift shop next door!

 

/0 Comments/by