The Best Beaches in Clearwater

by Clearwater Family Photographers

Clearwater, FL is famous for soft white sand beaches and alluring turquoise waters. Clearwater’s beaches draw millions of visitors because of the picturesque coastline and amenities. 

Clearwater is an ideal destination for families on their Florida vacation. Clearwater is also a highly recommended as one of the top beaches near Orlando, so it’s a great day trip during your Disney vacation. Clearwater is about 2 hours west of the Orlando area. Some families prefer the gulf coast over the east coast beaches because the water is more calm, warm and welcoming to children. 

As Clearwater Family photographers, we love gulf coast beaches because of the vibrant sunsets and kid-friendly waves. 

Pier 60 Park Clearwater Beach 

1 Causeway Blvd. Clearwater, FL

The most popular (and busiest) destination in Clearwater is Pier 60 Park. It offer access to the amazing sugar sand beaches in addition to a seemingly endless list of amenities:

• Fishing pier
• Restrooms
• Concessions
• Picnic Pavilions
• Rentals

There is also a family friendly festival each day called the sunset festival that begins 2 hours before sunset and ends 2 hours after. With street performers and musical entertainment, it is an excellent way to end a beach day in Clearwater. 

Being Clearwater Family photographers, we hear rave reviews about this spot all of the time because of the plentiful activities. 

Clearwater Beach by Martial Arts Nomad

Honeymoon Island State Park

1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL

A paradise for bird watchers, Honeymoon Island State Park is on the quieter side. Honeymoon Island State Park is a peaceful and picturesque destination for anyone that is looking to soak in the stunning coastal views of Clearwater beaches. 

Clearwater Family photographers adore the picture-worthy scenery!

There is an $8 entrance fee but it is a highly recommended location for scenic white sand beaches in Clearwater. While there isn’t as much in the way of concessions, Honeymoon Island State Park does have restrooms. I would recommend packing a picnic lunch. 

If you have your dog with you, there is a dog-friendly beach in Honeymoon Island State Park. 

Honeymoon Island State Park by Melissa Franklin

Fort DeSoto Park 

3500 Pinellas Bayway S.

Tierra Verde, FL

Fort Desoto Park’s North Beach was voted a top family beach by Parents Magazine and it’s easy to see why. Fort Desoto is another peaceful and picturesque park with white sand beaches. The park itself covers over a thousand acres, so there is plenty to explore. 

You can go paddling, fishing, swimming, sunbathing and there is also a campground nearby as well. Enjoy scenic trails and choose between a bay fishing pier or a gulf fishing pier.  

In addition to sparkling pristine beaches, Fort Desoto also has a historic museum and fort to experience. You can catch amazing panoramic views of the skyway bridge atop the old fort overlook. 

Sand Key Park 

One of Clearwater’s hidden gems is Sand Key Park. This quiet and secluded beach is the perfect place to escape the crowds and unwind. The sand is not powdery white but this beach is a local favorite and come highly recommended by many. 

Clearwater is a fantastic destination for families because there are award winning beaches and lots to do. Check out our post on things to do for families in Clearwater.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium by Carlos Castro