Spring Break in Clearwater Beach, Florida
Fun Alternatives to Sunbathing While on Spring Break in Clearwater Beach, Florida
Spring break in Clearwater Beach, Florida, typically evokes images of sunbathing, beach volleyball, swimming, or surfing in the Gulf of Mexico. While these activities are fun, visitors may enjoy a change of pace with things to do off the beach or in an air-conditioned space. Clearwater Beach and the central Pinellas County area offer many activities for visitors covering a variety of interests.
Enjoy a Show
The Capitol Theatre, located in downtown Clearwater, has been ranked one of the best small theaters in the state. With a limited capacity of fewer than 700 people, shows are always intimate in this recently renovated historic theater. But don’t let the small size fool you. National acts such as Sheryl Crow, Jay Leno, Kid Rock, Train, The Outlaws, Gallagher, and David Crosby have appeared at the Capitol Theatre. The theater is just across the bridge from the beach and easily reached via the Jolley Trolley or taxi.
Catch a Game
Spring Training baseball is in full swing during spring break. The Toronto Blue Jays play home games at Dunedin Stadium, just 2 miles north of downtown Clearwater in Dunedin, Florida. The Philadelphia Phillies host games at Spectrum Field, located approximately 7 miles east of the beach.
Ride the Trolley
The Jolley Trolley is an independent, nonprofit trolley service that operates along Clearwater Beach, as well as extending along the coast as far north as Tarpon Springs. You can use it as transportation to various locations as a hop-on / hop-off tour or as a great way to explore the area. Routes are circular, so don’t worry about getting lost. Fares vary from a single ride fee to passes good for a day, 3-days, weekly, or a month.
Hit the Trail
If you’re into hiking, biking, running, or just a leisurely walk, there are lots of trails to keep you busy. The Clearwater East-West Trail starts at Pier 60 and continues east over the bridge into downtown Clearwater. From this point, you can explore the Pinellas Trail, which covers more than 38 miles from Tarpon Springs in the north to St. Petersburg in the south. Continuing along the Clearwater East-West Trail approximately 4.7 miles, you will reach the Progress Energy Trail. This trail runs north-south along U.S. Hwy 19.
Visit the Aquarium
Just off the Clearwater Memorial Causeway, located on Pasadees Key, is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This aquarium is home to Winter the Dolphin, who was the subject of the movie “Dolphin Tale.” Most of the movie was filmed at the aquarium and around Clearwater. In addition to the aquarium exhibits, it’s also a working marine hospital. Visitors may see rescued marine animals such as dolphins, sea turtles, or otters.
Hang Out at the Pier
During the day, Pier 60 is the focal point of Clearwater Beach, offering concessions, impressive views, and great fishing. “Sunsets at Pier 60” is a daily celebration that runs from two hours before sunset until two hours after. Each evening attracts artisans, crafters, musicians, food vendors, and other entertainers to the Pier. Admission to the festival is free.
Go to the Park
While Clearwater Beach is beautiful, it can also be hot, crowded, and noisy. Get away from the beach crowd with a visit to Sand Key Park, located just 2 miles south of Pier 60. Sand Key Park is part of the Pinellas County Park Service and offers lots of activities and fun. Amenities include a white sand beach, nature trail, playground, shelters with grills, cabana rentals, kayak, and bicycle rentals, a concession stand, and a dog park.
Take a Cruise
Vendors along Clearwater Beach offer an array of cruises along the Intracoastal Waterway and into the Gulf of Mexico. Themes include dinner cruises, dolphin watching, sunset cruises, music cruises, fishing, and even a pirate-themed adventure for the kids.
Explore the Gardens
In the city of Largo, about 8 miles from Clearwater Beach, sits the Florida Botanical Gardens. Visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens, including the Patio Garden, Herb Garden, Tropical Fruit Garden, Butterfly Garden, Vegetable Garden, Wedding Garden, and many more. There is also an aquatic habitat, nature trails, boardwalks, and bridges. Art lovers can find exhibits throughout the property.
Get the most fun out of your spring break vacation by climbing out of the beach chair and enjoying options all around you. Clearwater Beach and the surrounding area have much more to offer than just the top beach in the US and lots of white sand.
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