Everything on the island is walkable and so accessible.
Payne loves to bring guests to their on-site restaurant, Caretta.
She said, Many places serve stone crab, but this spot does it best.
Credit:Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure
When on vacation, I dont order seafood because Clearwater has spoiled me.
Stay & Play
A little further north and out of the bustle sitsStay & Play Clearwater Beach.
But for the best water view, Payne suggests staying on the custom-built houseboat.
Courtesy of Opal Sands
Or, grab one of their complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, or beach cruiser bikes to explore Clearwater Beach.
Best Things to Do
Michela Siemans/Travel + Leisure
Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
TheClearwater Marine Aquarium(CMA) operates on the rescue, rehab, and release model.
Michela Siemans/Travel + Leisure
Both the original and sequel are based on true stories of rescued dolphins Hope and the departed Winter.
Payne added, The work they do is paramount to the community.
Beltz lovesSalt Cracker Chartersfor deep-sea fishing where you’re able to scout for grouper.
Courtesy of Opal Sands
Another option is anDolphin Island Jet Ski Tour.
In 2023, it becameThe BayCare Sound, where a slew of high-profile musicians have taken the stage.
Captain Memos Pirate Cruise
For 40 years,Captain Memos Pirate Cruisehas sailed the seas surrounding Clearwater.
Courtesy of Opal Sands
According to Beltz, it’s not to be missed, especially if you have kids in tow.
The winner, of course, gets a championship belt, just like a professional wrestler.
Reefers Social Club
This locally owned and operated hot spot is Beltzs favorite for a late-night cocktail.
Courtesy of Opal Sands
Fusion Cigar Lounge
There’s always something going on atFusion Cigar Lounge.
The walls are filled with local art and the sunset views are fiery.
There’s live music most days and the sunset comes free with dinner.
Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure
Grab a Palm Rum Runner, their signature cocktail, to toast another day in paradise.
The global menu includes favorites like Korean barebecue ribs, lamb burgers with tzatziki, and African curry.
The Bait House
Opened in the 1940s, Beltz lovesThe Bait Housefor its low-key dive atmosphere.
Courtesy of Opal Sands
It serves locally caught seafood, homemade chowders, fish tacos, and an assortment of beer and wine.
It also sells bait and tackle, runs fishing charters, and tells salty tales of Old Florida.
It also has a selection of seafood and pasta dishes, and a Blinkers Beachside menu of smoked cocktails.
Payne let us in some not-to-be-missed events that occur throughout the year.
November brings theChalkful of Tastefestival to Pier 60.
PIE is also slightly closer to Clearwater, at just 20 minutes away by car.
Payne loves this quiet getaway, which includes Sand Key Park, a 95-acre minimally developed beach and park.
Amenities include bathrooms, changing rooms, outdoor showers, and a concession stand.
There are paved pathways and an interior nature trail that offer views of a virgin slash pine forest.
Safety Harbor
Safety Harbor’s First Friday on Main Street is a big draw for Payne.
The 2.5-mile barrier island is walkable, but you’re free to also useWay2Go Rides.
Beltz added, I live a block away from the route and have biked it many times.
It also runs along the coast, so you get a beautiful view for your ride.
