Situated along Florida’s sunny western coast in Pinellas County is the charming and beautiful city of Clearwater. Tourists and visitors tend to overlook Clearwater in favor of its neighbors Tampa and St. Petersburg. However, Clearwater should not be missed if you are looking for a fun place to bring your family.
- Clearwater Family Fungiev / Travel Photos / CC BY-NC-SA
Are you looking to escape to the warm Florida waters with your family? Head down to Clearwater and check out these highlights. Whether you want to see Florida’s wildlife, relax and play at the beach, or have an adventure on the open seas, Clearwater has it all.
Pier 60
Free. That word should probably catch your attention if you are planning your itinerary! Pier 60 Park on Clearwater Beach is the place to be at dusk. Any evening will work, permitting the weather is clear. Not only will you see the beautiful streaks of light and color in the western sky, but your family can bask in the sea of local artisans, street performers and musical entertainers.
Pier 60 is great place to spend the day too. You’ll find volleyball courts, tennis courts, playgrounds, bait and tackle shops and much more. Your family will love the beautiful Pier 60 Park.
Dolphins
Watch dolphins in their natural habitat off of the shores of Clearwater’s beaches.  You can sign up with a sightseeing tour with experienced and trained guides who will bring you up close to dolphins, and many other animals in their natural habitats.
Take advantage of the crystal clear water by going for a snorkel. Great keepsake shells can be found as well.
Aquarium
There is no escaping winter when you come to Clearwater. This winter is a good winter though – it’s Winter the dolphin! The star of the movie Dolphin Tale is located at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Your family will love the dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, otters, sting rays, a myriad of colorful fish, stunning coral reefs, and mangroves.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium also offers guided kayak tours that explore the Finger Islands. You will see exquisite wildlife and explore coastal ecosystems. You won’t have to bring your own gear either. Clearwater Marine Aquarium will provide what you need.
Pirates
What kid doesn’t enjoy pirates? Bring your family on the ultimate cruise and experience life as a pirate on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise.
You will get caught up in the excitement of the life of a seadog and buccaneer and will love the thrill of a treasure hunt, face painting, water gun fights, spell binding pirate stories and foot stomping pirate dances. (insert link 2) Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruises are legendary and will have your kids dreaming of pirate adventures and hidden treasure.
Mini Golf
Clearwater has more to offer than just stunning beaches and coastal activities. Take your family inland and enjoy a round of mini golf on the Congo River Adventure Golf course. This is no ordinary mini put course either – you will be playing besides thundering waterfalls, rocky crags, strange and foreboding caves, and tropical rainforests.
You will forget that you are even in Florida as you play mini golf at the Congo River Adventure Golf course. After a round of mini golf, take some time to feed the live gators.
So Much to See and Do!
Clearwater is the ultimate family fun place. It is loaded with top rated attractions and has so many exciting activities for your family. Come see what Clearwater has to offer! Your family will have an unforgettable visit.
Guest author Mary Tejada and her family recently relocated to Clearwater, Florida. One of the first things they did upon arrival was scope out the family friendly activities. When she isn’t setting sail with pirates, Mary is hard at work at Smitherman Law, 600 Bypass Dr #106, Clearwater, FL 33764. 727-466-1456 http://theclearwaterattorney.com/
Too often Florida gets associated with all the big name industries and theme parks. As a Florida native, this is a great tool. I hope some folks that come down into town check out some of these “real Florida” attractions.
I totally agree! 🙂