Your Ultimate Guide to Spring Break in Clearwater Beach, Florida

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Plan on spending your spring break in Clearwater Beach? Oh, I’ve got you covered! Having spent my first five years in Florida working smack-dab in the heart of this beachy paradise (and, yes, fully embracing the Spring Break energy along the way), I know this place like the back of my sandy hand. From local secrets to must-visit spots, consider this your insider’s guide to soaking up the sun, fun, and good vibes that make Clearwater Beach the ultimate Florida spring break destination!

Fun Things to Do for Your Spring Break in Clearwater Beach

1. Clearwater Beach Scavenger Hunt

I created this scavenger hunt for my 30th birthday, and we literally had the FUNNEST time! This is definitely an adults-only scavenger hunt, but the tasks and challenges are so much fun. It’s perfect for spring break, birthday parties, and even bachelorette parties!

I promise you’re going to love this unique, memorable, and cheap way to experience spring break in Clearwater Beach!

2. Boat Day

Hands down one of the funnest things to do in Clearwater Beach for your spring break is book a boat tour with A Boat Day! Choose anywhere from a half to a full day of island hopping and pick any one of their beautiful and fun boats. They accommodate small and large party groups.

When I went out with them we did a 6-hour boat ride on the Avalon Funship, which is a giant pontoon boat with a second-story waterslide.  We were extra comfortable with lots of space and shade on the rental boat and felt completely at ease with the professional captain.  

We made our way to another island, where the water was so clear and green it felt like we were living in a screensaver! We then did some wading in the water with our fun ring floats, toasted on the upper-level tanning bed, and wore out the waterslide!

3. Beach day

Pack your cooler, slather on that sunscreen, and get ready to sink your toes into Clearwater’s pristine white sand! While most people stick to the beach closest to their hotel, let me share a couple of spots that might just level up your beach day.

South Beach by Shephard’s is one of my favorites. It’s tucked along the intercoastal, which means calm waters and a slightly less chaotic vibe compared to the main beach by Pier 60. Even though it can still get busy, it feels more relaxed. Plus, it’s right by Makin Waves, my go-to spot for renting kayaks and Jet Skis.

If you do want an even more lively vibe, Pier 60 is always a great choice. Sure, it’s usually buzzing with activity, but you’ll be in the heart of everything—bars, restaurants, and all the beachy fun Clearwater is known for.

And if you’re the sporty type, head down by Frenchy’s Rockaway for some beach volleyball. It’s a great way to work up an appetite before grabbing one of their famous grouper sandwiches (it is one of the best restaurants in Clearwater Beach after all). Seriously, you haven’t really done Clearwater Beach until you’ve had one.

4. Cruisin Tiki’s

Cruisin Tiki’s is your own personal floating bar. Cruise around Clearwater on a 1½- to 2-hour cruise. You bring your own booze and snacks, but the tiki provides you with cups, ice, a blender, and a fun way to explore the Gulf of Mexico.

We had such a blast on our tour! You can do it early in the morning, afternoon, or sunset. We saw so many dolphins when we went in the afternoon; it was the cherry on top! This tour is for smaller groups and can accommodate up to 6 people.

If you have a larger group Clearwater Tiki Boat holds up to 18 passengers, and is an open bar!

5. Clearwater Beach Bar Crawl

If you’re looking to experience Clearwater Beach’s nightlife, a bar crawl is an absolute must! Start your night at Bar Tiki, a cool rooftop bar with a laid-back vibe and fun, tropical drinks. It’s the perfect spot to kick things off while soaking up the sunset views.

For a completely different scene, head over to Shipwreck, a divey locals’ bar that oozes charm. It’s a no-frills kind of place with cheap drinks, friendly faces, and a casual vibe that makes you feel right at home. Honestly, this is where I usually end up when I’m not quite ready to call it a night.

And if dancing is more your style, Shephard’s Beach Resort is the move. It’s home to the only nightclub on the beach, so get ready to hit the dance floor and vibe out to live DJs. It’s high-energy and the perfect way to keep the party going.

Want even more bar ideas? Check out my full list of fun bars in Clearwater Beach to make sure your night is absolutely unforgettable!

6. Pier 60

Pier 60 is pretty iconic when it comes to Clearwater Beach. You can visit during the day to check out the views and maybe if you have a nice buzz you’ll take a ride down their giant inflatable water slides or hop in the human hamster wheel.

It’s also beautiful in the evening during Pier 60’s Sunset Celebration. This occurs 2 hours before until 2 hours after sunset every night. You can expect performers of all kinds, along with crafters, face painters, and musicians— not to mention the most beautiful, untainted views of the sunset.

7. Take a Day Trip

One of the best things about spending your spring break in Clearwater Beach is how ridiculously close you are to so many of Tampa Bay’s other incredible spots! If you’re only here for a few days, no pressure—stay put and soak up all the beachy vibes. But if your trip is 4+ days, it’s definitely worth venturing out for a change of scenery.

First up, Dunedin! It’s practically your next-door neighbor, just a quick 10-minute drive or trolley ride away. It’s the cutest little spot ever. Think charming streets, amazing restaurants, and even some fun nightlife. Honestly, Dunedin is one of my all-time favorite day trips in Tampa Bay.

If you’re up for a slightly longer drive, Tampa and St. Pete have so much to offer! Head to Tampa for an epic pool party at WTR, where the vibes are always on point. Or cruise over to St. Pete and check out one of their hidden speakeasies for a night you won’t forget.

Feeling outdoorsy? Take a little road trip about an hour north to Weeki Wachee and paddle through crystal-clear waters on a kayak. Bonus: you might even spot a manatee or two—talk about a Florida bucket list moment!

Breakfast + Brunch Restaurants in Clearwater Beach

For a tasty brunch or breakfast in Clearwater Beach, these spots are sure to hit the spot!

• Island Way Grill: Sunday brunch buffet for $29.95, complete with a waterfront view and a complimentary mimosa or glass of champagne. A classy way to kick off your day!
• Jimmy’s Fish House: Think strawberry cheesecake waffles, crème brûlée French toast, and an Oscar mignon benedict! Their bloody mary is practically a meal with its beer chaser, shrimp, and veggie skewer. Bonus: the deck seating and stunning views are perfect for groups.
• Clear Sky: A favorite among locals and tourists! Their brunch menu is packed with options, plus a bloody mary bar on weekends that’s calling your name.

Lunch + Dinner Restaurants in Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is full of amazing lunch and dinner spots! Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or sunset vibes, these places deliver:

• Frenchy’s Rockaway: Beachfront dining with fantastic seafood and their must-try signature drink, the Loopy Lada—beach vibes in a glass!
• Crabby’s Dockside: Head to the third level for jaw-dropping sunset views and dig into the best crab legs on the beach.
• Hurricane Eddie’s: Delicious eats, live music, and a laid-back setting make this spot a classic for a reason.

Pro tip: The brunch spots I mentioned? They’re just as awesome for lunch and dinner! Check out my full list of awesome restaurants in Clearwater Beach for more recs.

For nicer dinners where you don’t mind spending a little more check out SHOR American Seafood Grill (they have some of the best calamari! And several other delicious apps and mains), Caretta on the Gulf (seafood), or Ocean Hai (Asian fusion).

Where to Stay in Clearwater Beach

Whether you’re planning a cozy getaway or a luxurious escape, Clearwater Beach has plenty of fantastic options to fit your vibe:

• For smaller groups or a more budget-friendly (using that term loosely because Clearwater Beach isn’t cheap) stay, check out Edge Hotel, Pier House 60, and Springhill Suites by Marriott—all three even include breakfast!
• Want to treat yourself? Splurge a little and stay at the Hyatt Regency, Sandpearl, and Opal Sands, all offering incredible resort vibes.
• Looking to wake up right on the beach? Don’t miss gems like the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, one of the best beachfront hotels in Clearwater Beach.

Some other options include:

• The Avalon Club— Get their deluxe suite that has 3 bedrooms and sleeps up to 10 people. It’s a 2-minute walk from the beach and has a pool and fitness center.
• Sunset Splash Holiday Home—This 5-bedroom Clearwater Beach vacation rental is STUNNING. It’s right on the intercoastal and has a private pool and pool table. It’s a minute’s walk from the beach, activities, and nightlife.
• Clearwater Beach Cabana Holiday Home— If you have an extra large group, this 7-bedroom home sleeps up to 26 people! It’s in a great location and also includes a private pool.

Ready for an epic spring break in Clearwater Beach?

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to experiencing an unforgettable Spring Break in Clearwater Beach. From the pristine white sand beaches and stunning sunsets to the vibrant nightlife, incredible food, and nearby adventures, Clearwater Beach truly has everything you need! Whether you’re here to relax, party, explore, or soak up the sunshine, there’s no shortage of fun waiting for you!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:

Best breweries in Tarpon Springs

Fun things to do in Jupiter, Florida

Awesome restaurants in Channelside Tampa