This Is America’s Favorite Beach: Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach is the sort of vacation destination that inspires accolades, including top honors from USA TODAY, TripAdvisor (SmarterTravel’s parent company), and Forbes. Clearwater Beach is widely recognized for its warm Gulf Coast water, silky sand, and vacation-friendly location close to hotels, activities, and places to eat.

Shallow, clear water (Clearwater Beach lives up to its name) and miles of sand create plenty of room to splash, sunbathe, and play. Hotels offer seating and umbrellas to guests, and independent beachgoers have picture-perfect places to lay out their beach towels as well.

At sunset, Pier 60 is the place to be along Clearwater Beach, with a daily festival featuring street performers and vendors from two hours before until two hours after sunset.

Stay in the heart of the action by booking at a beachfront hotel such as one of these:

Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach: This high-rise hotel offers beach views, a large swimming pool, several dining choices, and specially themed family rooms and suites.

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa: The Hyatt Regency offers large rooms and ocean views, along with a pool with a view (it’s on the 8th floor) and a spa.

More from SmarterTravel:

• What to Pack for Florida
• Tampa Bay CityPASS: The Ultimate Pass to Amazing Animals
• 4 Hidden, Cheap Beach Destinations on the Gulf Coast

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