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

disclaimer

LOOKING INTO VISITING CLEARWATER IN OCTOBER?

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.

As you start heading into October and November in Clearwater, tourism begins to increase again. By October, the hot and humid summer slowdown is fading. And more comfortable weather means more vacationers.

Although Clearwater in October still has some of the warmest temperatures, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this city in the fall.

Clearwater in March is the least rainy month, and in July and August, the rain starts to pick up. By October, the rain has tapered off a lot, and wet weather isn’t as much of a concern.

Whether you’re making a day trip from Orlando to Clearwater to enjoy the beautiful beaches or you’re spending your entire trip in Clearwater, you will have a great time!

Clearwater Weather in October

Sunset on Clearwater Beach in October

During the month of October, the weather in Clearwater continues to slowly cool off as fall rolls in. The rain levels continue to decrease as the wet season wraps up as well. Temperatures will still be warm, and the humidity is still an issue but rapidly decreases throughout October.

High and Low Temperatures in Clearwater in October

Temperature in Clearwater in October
Source: Weather Atlas

During the month of October, you can expect the average temperature in Clearwater to be between 81-82° Fahrenheit. Keep in mind that humidity is still a factor during October, so these warm temperatures will still feel even warmer if you aren’t used to humid conditions.

Overnight, the average minimum temperature in Clearwater drops to around 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Average high temperature in Clearwater in October: 81° Fahrenheit
  • Average low temperature in Clearwater in October: 72° 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 October
Source: Weather Atlas

The average sea temperature in Clearwater in October is nearly 86° Fahrenheit. The range for water temperature has a low of 81° Fahrenheit and a high of 89° Fahrenheit.

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

Can We Swim in Clearwater in October?

You can swim in Clearwater in October. The water temperature averages at about 81°F, you should not have any problems being comfortable swimming in the ocean.

Rain

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

June is when the summer rains start, then reaches its peak in August. By October, the rain has noticeably decreased.

On average, Clearwater only sees 1″ of rain in October. This is a fall of 50% from the 2″ average in September. And an even further fall from the over 3″ of rain in August. The thunder and rain storms usually last an hour or less, and then it is back to sunny skies.

If you hear thunder, remember to head inside.

How Cloudy is Clearwater in October?

You can expect about 37% cloud cover in the city of Clearwater in October. This means you can expect a lot less cloud cover during your visit to Clearwater in October, in comparison to Clearwater in September and Clearwater in August, when the rain season is still in full swing.

Although you’re likely to find clear skies throughout the month, the end of the month promises to be the clearest. So that’s your best chance to find clear skies during your visit to Clearwater in October.

Cloudy day in Clearwater in October

When are Sunrise and Sunset in October?

Sunrise in October starts at 7:25 am in the first part of the month. As the month goes by, sunrise gradually will get later. By October 15th, sunrise is at 7:32 am, and by the end of the month, sunrise is at 7:42 am.

Sunset at the beginning of October is at 7:19 pm. By the end of the month, you can expect sunset at 6:49 pm.

What to Wear in October

The weather in October is going to have warm temperatures and some humidity. You can expect mostly clear skies and not much rain. Overall, you should expect warm weather with highs in the low 80s.

With temperatures in the 80s, you will want to bring proper sun protection like a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and shades for the beach. Also, make sure to bring plenty of water with you.

Cloudy day at the beach in Clearwater in October

Events in Clearwater in October

Throughout the month of October, there are lots of fun things to do in the area. If you’re wondering what to do in Clearwater, Florida in October, the events are scattered 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 August, 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.

If you decide to visit the beach or Pier 60, be sure to bring your beach chair backpack along so you have a comfortable place to sit while enjoying the beach views.

Events at the Ruth Eckerd Hall

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

Make sure to check out their schedule so you can attend a performance.

Concerts

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a fall evening with the added bonus of live music. There are a handful of concerts happening in Clearwater and nearby Tampa during the month of October.

Be sure to check local entertainment schedules to see if your trip lines up with one of the musical dates.

Sporting Events

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

An activity that everyone will love in Clearwater in October is a baseball game. The Tampa Bay Rays’ season will be wrapping up in early October over in Tampa. If you plan on going into Tampa for the day, you can add on a visit to Ray’s Stadium.

Other Events in Clearwater in October

During the month of October, there are lots of great farmers’ markets around town. The Safety Harbor’s Market on Main is held every Sunday, and St. Pete Saturday Morning Market is held every Saturday.

Harley-Davidson owners from across the country will converge in Clearwater from October 4-7, 2023. The Bikes, Beaches, and Bridges H.O.G. Rally will lead riders through the vast landscapes throughout Florida. Whether you’re a rider or just a fan, it will be a cool pilgrimage to witness!

It’s never too early to celebrate Halloween in Clearwater in October. If you’re in town, swing by Clearwater’s Halloween Open Water Party. The community event will be held at Lifeguard Station #7 on October 28th. Costumes and spooky fun are encouraged!

Other Fun Things to Do in Clearwater 

Along with spending time at the beach at Pier 60, there are many other fun beaches to go to (even dog-friendly ones), 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 loved 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 get 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 the Gulf Coast 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 town 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 to 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 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 Clearwater 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 April and other earlier winter months also has milder temperatures, so you can easily enjoy the outdoors without the humidity and the heat.

You should visit between July and September if you are looking for fewer tourists and less expensive rates. However, the weather is hotter and more humid.

October is also a great option because the weather is more comfortable, not to mention the rain and Atlantic Hurricane Season have typically wrapped up by this point in the year.

Where to Stay in Clearwater in October 

Sandy beach in Florida

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

Exterior photo of Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, a great place to stay when visiting Clearwater in October.
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

Beach near Clearwater, Florida

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 October.
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

Shells on the beach

AC Hotel Clearwater Beach

Rooftop terrace at AC Hotel Clearwater Beach, a great place to stay when in Clearwater in October.
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 October

Beach in Clearwater

Is October a Good Month to Visit Clearwater, Florida?

October is a good time to visit Florida. This is the time when the humidity starts to subside, and the weather is still warm but not unbearable. The rain season has wrapped up for the most point by this time, too, so rain isn’t of much concern in Clearwater in October.

A big bonus of visiting this time of year, however, is the water temperature is also warmer, making it more comfortable to swim in the ocean compared to the coming winter and spring months.

We also love visiting around this time of year because there are so many fun Halloween happenings in Florida. Whether you’re looking for solid scares or some family-friendly fun, there’s something go on for everyone!

Can You Swim in Clearwater in October?

You can definitely swim in Clearwater in October. The average water temperature in October is about 81 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a bit chillier than the summer water temps, but this is warm enough for most people to enjoy swimming in the ocean.

Most people will find this warm enough for swimming. For some people, the water may be too warm, and they would prefer it to be a bit cooler as a way to cool off from the warm outdoor temperature.

On a boat in Clearwater in October

Is Clearwater Beach Busy in October?

The busy season in Clearwater starts to slow down in early summer as the summer rain and humidity increase. Crowds lessen even more into September, as most family travel has wrapped up with kids back in school.

The cooling temperatures and dwindling humidity might entice some fall visitors to Clearwater in October. But, the busy season for this part of the Gulf Coast won’t be in full swing until late February through early May.

How Hot is Clearwater, Florida in October?

You can expect warm and humid temperatures in Florida in October. The average temperature in Clearwater in October is 81°F. On cooler days, the average high is a slightly more comfortable 72°F.

You can also expect a muggy rate of humidity at the beginning of the month, but it will drastically fall to 49% throughout the course of the month.

Pinnelas Trail in Clearwater, FL

Does it Rain in Clearwater in October?

Clearwater does get rain in October, but not much. You can expect around 1 inch of rain to fall in Clearwater throughout the month of October.

There are, on average, nine days of rain in Clearwater in October. Storms happen often but typically pass quickly.

Conclusion: Clearwater in October

We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding the Clearwater Beach weather in October and all the fun things to do in the area. There’s no better way to enjoy the cooling fall temperatures than a trip to Clearwater!

October is a great time to take advantage of this beautiful area of the Gulf Coast if you plan on spending lots of time in the water or indoors on a rainy day.

We always have a great time when we visit Clearwater. There are so many family-friendly activities and beautiful beaches.

Similar Posts