Clearwater in March: Weather, Travel Tips & More for 2024

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LOOKING INTO VISITING CLEARWATER IN MARCH?

You’ve come to the right place! We have spent months living in Florida, and Clearwater is one of our favorite destinations in the state. March in Clearwater is amazing!

March is one of the best months to visit Clearwater if you don’t mind sharing the beach with a few other people, although when we visited in March, we didn’t find the beaches overly crowded. The weather is starting to warm up in Clearwater in March, but you won’t find the high temperatures and intense humidity that is prevalent in the summer.

It is also the driest month for Clearwater, making it a great time to visit Clearwater. If the crowds are a big deal, try to visit in early March before Spring Break starts, or consider visiting Clearwater in April after Spring Break is over.

Clearwater Weather in March

You can enjoy the sunsets in Clearwater in March because it is nice outside

During the month of March, the weather in Clearwater starts to make a transition out of the cooler winter temperatures. The weather this time of year is great because the rain is minimal, and the temperatures aren’t too hot to enjoy the fun outdoor activities in Clearwater.

It isn’t the hottest month in Clearwater, but the weather is still nice, making it easy to argue that March may be the best month to visit Clearwater.

Most people are comfortable in T-shirts with maybe a light jacket in the evening. During our last visit to Clearwater in March, we didn’t have any problem with weather being too cool.

High and Low Temperatures in Clearwater in March

Average weather throughout the year in Clearwater
Source: Weather Atlas

During the month of March, you can expect the average temperature in Clearwater in March to be 71° Fahrenheit.

Overnight, the average minimum temperature in Clearwater drops to between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Average high temperature in Clearwater in March: 72° Fahrenheit
  • Average low temperature in Clearwater in March: 62° Fahrenheit
  • What are the hottest months in Clearwater? July and August at 87° Fahrenheit
  • What are the coldest months in Clearwater? January at 65° Fahrenheit

Clearwater Beach Water Temperature

Average sea temperature in Clearwater in March
Source: Weather Atlas

The average sea temperature in Clearwater is 68° Fahrenheit. The range for water temperature is a low of 63° Fahrenheit and a high of 75° Fahrenheit.

You can read more about the water temperature in our Clearwater Beach Water Temp Guide.

Can We Swim in Clearwater in March?

You can swim in Clearwater in March. The water may be a little brisk to some, but many enjoy swimming this time of year. Our family visited in February and had a great time swimming in the ocean.

Rain

Chart showing the average rainfall in Clearwater in March
Source: Weather Atlas

The average rainfall in the month of March is the smallest in the whole year at 0.39.” This is the dryest month (least amount of rainfall) out of the entire year.

How Cloudy is Clearwater in March?

You can expect about 25% cloud cover in Clearwater in March. You can compare this to 20% cloud cover in May but upwards of 30% cloud cover in Clearwater in December and January.

March is considered average for cloudy days compared to the rest of the year.

Clearwater Beach on a cloudy day

When is Sunrise and Sunset in March?

In the first half of March, sunrise is around 7:00 am. Towards the second half of the month, sunrise pushes back about 30 minutes, averaging between 7:20 and 7:40 am.

At the beginning of March, sunset is at around 6:30 pm. After March 12, sunset is at around 7:40 pm. By the end of the month, sunset is at 7:50 pm.

There is a time change on March 12th, leading to the changes in sunrise and sunset times. 

What to Wear in Clearwater in March

The weather in Clearwater in March is very pleasant during the day. You can expect mostly sunshine so you can enjoy the beach in a T-shirt. It is a good idea to bring a light jacket to wear at night or if the beach winds are a bit stronger.

Overall, you should expect great weather with highs in the 70s.

Although it is in the 70s, you will still want to bring proper sun protection like a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and shades for the beach.

There are very few days with clouds in Clearwater in March

Events in Clearwater in March

Throughout the month of March, there are lots of fun things to do in Clearwater. If you’re wondering what to do in Clearwater, Florida, in March, most of these events are occurring throughout the month, so keep an eye on schedules to see if any of the events line up during your visit to the Gulf of Mexico.

Sunsets at Pier 60 Daily Festival

In March, you can go to an evening party at Pier 60

This is a really fun and lively event that everyone will enjoy going to. Sunsets at Pier 60 is held daily at Pier 60 starting two hours before sunset. The party continues for two hours after sunset.

At the festival, you will find all sorts of street performers and artisans, as well as a lively crowd. We stumbled upon the festival during our first trip to Clearwater Beach and had a great time there. It is a great way to end your day, all while taking in the beautiful sunsets at Pier 60.

Events at the Ruth Eckerd Hall

The Ruth Eckerd Hall is a great center for the performing arts, with lots of shows going on in March. The performances held each night are varied, so be sure to check their schedule ahead of your visit. It is advised to get your tickets ahead of time.

You can see their schedule here.

Sporting Events

There are lots of sporting events you can go to in March in Clearwater

There are lots of great opportunities to attend a sporting event in Clearwater in the month of March. The Tampa Bay Lightning is playing in nearby Tampa. Their schedule typically runs through the entire month of March, and you can check their schedule here.

If you don’t want to make the drive into Tampa, you can check out the Philadelphia Phillies Spring Training in Clearwater Beach. Their spring schedule in Clearwater is usually pretty busy, so odds are you’ll find a game you can attend. You can see their schedule here.

 Some other fun sporting events to attend are the Tampa Bay Rowdies games, Valspar Championship (PGA), and Firestone Grand Prix.

Other Fun Things to Do in Clearwater 

Along with spending time at the beach at Pier 60, there are lots of other fun beaches to go to, like Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island. The warm daytime temperatures make it really nice to spend time at the sandy white beaches there.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Dolphin at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working marine hospital that works to rehabilitate and rescue marine animals. It is home to many dolphins, which my kids love seeing. There are also a few other exhibits you can enjoy there.

If your family loves dolphins as much as we do, this is a great opportunity to keep up close to these beautiful animals. This is one of our favorite things to do in Clearwater with kids.

Dolphin Boat Tour

Dolphins on a dolphin tour in Florida

Another really fun activity to enjoy in Clearwater is a dolphin adventure. We did this during our last visit to Clearwater and had a great time. We got to see so many dolphins, and it was so fun to be out on the water. The views of the city were beautiful!

Our youngest was learning all sorts of new words when we went on our last dolphin tour, and it was so fun to hear her scream “dolphin” every time she saw one.

BOOK Dolphin Tour

Explore Tarpon Springs

Shop in Tarpon Springs, Florida

Tarpon Springs is a very charming and cute Greek city about 30 minutes north of Clearwater. The sponge docks are a fun area to window-shop, and there are some delicious restaurants there. We had a lot of fun exploring this part of Clearwater and seeing all of the amazing sponges that come out of the ocean.

Be sure to stop by some of the Greek bakeries for some delicious treats. There are some nice benches down by the water where you can enjoy your treats!

Clearwater Sunset Sailing Cruise

Another great way to enjoy time on the water in Clearwater is on a sunset sailing cruise. There are many different Clearwater sunset cruises to choose from. We love spending time on the water and at the beach at sunset. There is something magical about watching the sun dip down below the horizon when you’re near the water.

It is so beautiful and a perfect way to end your day. Kids under five are not allowed on this tour.

BOOK Clearwater Sunset Sailing Cruise

Kayaking

Kayaking in the bayous of Tarpon Springs

If you’re looking for a more active and adventurous thing to do in Clearwater, kayaking in a clear bottom vessel is a lot of fun. It’s an amazing way to experience the sights and wildlife of Clearwater.

As you explore Clearwater on this guided experience on the water, you’re likely to see dolphins and manatees! We got to see quite a few manatees in the Florida springs during our last visit to Florida, and it is so cool to get to see them in their natural habitats.

Along with plenty of cool things to see, your knowledgeable guide will share all sorts of information about Clearwater’s local history and wildlife.

BOOK Kayaking Adventure

Johns Pass Boardwalk in Madeira Beach

Bird sitting near Johns Pass Boardwalk

Another fun area to do some window shopping and exploring is the Johns Pass Boardwalk. There are lots of great shops as well as restaurants. This old fishing village is a great place to spend the day near St. Pete’s.

This is a great place to spend the afternoon on the water and mix in some shopping and dining.

Best Time of Year to Visit Clearwater

Shells from the beach in Clearwater

The best time of year to visit Clearwater will depend on what you are looking for on your vacation. Each season has its pros and cons. The winter months have more visitors but dryer weather conditions.

Clearwater, Florida weather in March and other earlier winter months also has milder temperatures, so you can easily enjoy the outdoors without the humidity and the heat.

If you are looking for fewer tourists and less expensive rates, you should visit between July and September. However, the weather is hotter and more humid. It is also the Atlantic Hurricane Season.

Where to Stay in Clearwater in March 

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

Exterior photo of Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, a great place to stay when visiting Clearwater in March.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa (Photo: Expedia)

⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 301 S Gulfview Blvd in Clearwater Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa is a beautiful property close to the beach and one of the best family resorts in Clearwater. On the property, you will find a poolside bar, a coffee shop, as well as the amazing Sandava Spa. It’s so convenient, too, just a short walk from all the amenities in downtown Clearwater.

Shor American Seafood Grill is one of the hotel’s two onsite restaurants. You won’t regret getting up early to visit this spot because it’s one of the best places in Clearwater Beach for breakfast!

The location is ideal. Everything you need is within walking distance. There is a small market next to the property, so you can stock the kitchen. The fitness center is well-maintained and spacious.

Martha (Read more Reviews)

There is also a great outdoor pool area with a kid’s area, waterslide, cabanas, and sun loungers. You can also take advantage of the local shuttle as well as water sports equipment. This is a great hotel with a convenient location, making it easy to enjoy all of the fun things to do in Clearwater.

 ▶ Check Rates & Availability at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort

Barefoot Bay Resort and Marina

Sundeck with loungers and umbrella-shaded tables at Barefoot Bay Resort and Marina, a great place to stay when visiting Clearwater in March.
Barefoot Bay Resort and Marina (Photo: Expedia)

⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍 Location: 401 East Shore Drive in Clearwater Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

If you’re looking for something a little less expensive but still with great amenities and positive reviews, check out Barefoot Bay Resort and Marina. On-site, they have free self-parking, BBQ grills, and an outdoor pool. There is also a terrace and picnic area.

Simple check in, staff was very accommodating, view was awesome and even has a dock that over looks the water

-Tarryce (read more Reviews)

It is a four-minute walk from Pier 60 as well as the beach walk.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Barefoot Bay Resort & Marina

AC Hotel Clearwater Beach

Rooftop terrace at AC Hotel Clearwater Beach, a great place to stay when in Clearwater in March.
AC Hotel Clearwater Beach (Photo: Expedia)

⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍Location: 395 Coronado Drive in Clearwater Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

AC Hotel Clearwater Beach is a beautiful hotel with an amazing pool with ocean views. There is onsite laundry, a restaurant, a convenience store, and a gym. There is also a nice rooftop terrace, perfect for relaxing after a day of fun in Clearwater.

Check in was super easy – the valet was quick and nice -the rooms are new and very clean. Rain shower heads in the bathrooms. Great hotel for a nice price. Rooftop bar and lobby bar. Great little raised pool

– Stephanie (read more Reviews)

Clearwater Beach, the Beach Walk, and Pier 60 are all within a six-minute walk. This makes it easy to explore the fun things to do in the area, even if you don’t have a car.

 ▶ Check Rates & Book: AC Hotel Clearwater Beach

This area also has an impressive selection of fun Clearwater Motels if none of the above options fit exactly what you’re looking for.

FAQ: Clearwater in March

Caladesi Island near Clearwater, FL
Is March a Good Time to Visit Clearwater, Florida?

March is a great time to visit Clearwater. The weather is starting to warm up, but it isn’t too warm, so you can easily enjoy all of the fun outdoor activities in the area. The water temperature is also a bit warmer, making it more comfortable to swim in the ocean compared to the earlier winter months.

The only drawback of visiting in March is the Spring Break crowds come, which leads to an increase in rates and more crowded beaches.

Can You Swim in Clearwater in March?

You can swim in Clearwater in March. The average water temperature is 68° Fahrenheit but ranges from 68° F to 75° F. This is warm enough to enjoy swimming in the ocean for most people.

However, it does range based on your preferred water temperature for swimming. We visited Clearwater in February and had no problem swimming in the ocean. However, at an average of 68° F, the water may be brisk, especially if it is a cloudy day.

Is Clearwater Warm in March?

While it isn’t overly warm in March, you will find beautiful sunny days with temperatures in the 70s. Most people will be comfortable in a T-shirt and can enjoy fun days at the beach.

Is Clearwater Beach Nice in March?

March is a great time to visit Clearwater Beach. The Clearwater Beach temp in March is starting to warm up from the winter months, as is the water temperature.

If you can visit at the beginning of the month, you will miss most of the spring break crowds. It’s such a treat to start your day at one of Clearwater Beach’s best breakfast places and not have to wait for a table!

People enjoying the Florida beach

Conclusion: Clearwater in March

We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding the Clearwater Beach weather in March. It is a great time to visit to take advantage of the warmer temperatures before the intense summer heat and humidity hits.

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