Tampa vs Clearwater: Which City To Visit For My Vacation [2024]
TRYING TO DECIDE BETWEEN TAMPA AND CLEARWATER?
You’ve come to the right place! We have spent months living in Florida, and have visited Clearwater and Tampa multiple times. Both cities are a lot of fun but they are different. We love visiting both of these cities, but each will give you a drastically different experience with different activities and things to do.
Tampa is a much larger city with more attractions, professional sports teams, and more. However, there really aren’t very many good beach options unless you go out to the Clearwater and St. Petersburg areas. Clearwater is a smaller beach town.
There are still lots of fun things to do in Clearwater, but you will have a more laid-back beach vacation compared to the busy Tampa area.
Tampa vs Clearwater
Is Tampa or Clearwater Better?
One of the toughest parts of planning a vacation is making the ultimate decision of where to go. Even if the destinations you have in mind are near one another, as is the case with Tampa vs Clearwater, it’s still a weighty decision to make.
We’ve done some homework and are here to help you decide whether Tampa or Clearwater is the ultimate Tampa Bay destination for you.
Keeping in mind the Holy Grail of Florida travel – beaches, things to do, tours and hotels, we’ll give you all the details you need to make the best choice for your family’s adventure!
Tampa Bay
Tampa Beaches
Ben T. Davis Beach is a welcoming sight for visitors just arriving in Tampa. Located 10 minutes from the airport, it’s the largest public beach in Tampa. Its gorgeous, powdery, white sand attracts visitors far and wide.
This beach is equipped with restrooms and showers, picnic shelters, built-in grills and a concession stand.
Aside from building sandcastles and soaking up the sun, visits to the beach generally revolve around swimming. Unfortunately, swimming at Ben T. Davis Beach (and others in the Tampa area) is highly discouraged due to bacteria in the water.
This issue can be very polarizing for potential visitors, as swimming can make or break a family vacation. Though swimming might be off the table, there are other family-friendly activities to be excited about at Ben T. Davis Beach.
Rentals for many different water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are available, allowing visitors to still experience the water, if only on the surface. Beach Yoga and Paddleboard Yoga are also fun events visitors can participate in at this beach.
Connected to the beach is the Courtney Campbell Trail, which promises fun adventures as well. Rent bikes right on the beach and enjoy the 4 mile family-friendly nature trail.
If biking isn’t in your family’s wheelhouse, this beach is also a prime spot to start seashell hunting. Kids will enjoy collecting shells from different beaches throughout your trip.
Just be sure to plan ahead with sunscreen, hats and other baby beach necessities when spending an extended period of time outside.
If you’re traveling with a pet, consider taking the short drive from Ben T. Davis Beach to Davis Island Beach, one of the best dog friendly beaches in Florida. Your dog will have the time of it’s life!
Picnic Island
Picnic Island is located in South Tampa and features a beautiful white sand beach. The waters here are calm and this spot offers amazing sunset views. A favorite beach for those traveling Tampa with pets, Picnic Island also includes a gated dog beach area.
Instead of swimming, the kids can expend some energy playing in the sand on the Picnic Island playground. Jungle gyms, slides, swings, and a rope climber are sure to keep the kids busy. And adults can let their competitive side shine on the sand volleyball court or scenic disc golf course.
This space also features covered shelters with a picnic area and grills, where you can enjoy a picnic while relishing the beautiful Florida weather. The restrooms, outdoor shower and drinking fountain areas are all clean and well maintained.
Really more of a beautiful park that just happens to feature beach areas, Picnic Island is still a great place to spend an afternoon in Tampa.
Things to Do in Tampa
Busch Gardens
If you’ve ever dreamed about visiting theme parks centered around animals, Tampa will offer you the chance! Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is home to thrilling roller coasters and wild water rides, all in an Africa and Asia themed backdrop.
For younger kids not quite ready for the quick rides, a Safari journey is always a hit, as is the Sesame Street live show.
We loved visiting Busch Gardens during our last visit to Tampa. There are so many great rides and the animals are always fun to see.
Zoo Tampa
Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park was voted the most family friendly zoo in the US by Parents Magazine. We have been to zoos all over the country and this is one of our favorite zoos.
It’s a super fun and popular place to explore and enjoy the many sights and sounds of this tropical zoological setting alongside your family. There are rides you can go on for free and also a splash pad.
An animal-lover’s dream, this zoo is home to 1,300 animals. Full of hands-on opportunities, your kids may even get to feed a giraffe or get nose-to-horn with an Indian rhino. A visit to Zoo Tampa is a day to remember for sure.
Tours in Tampa
Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 3 Hours
Ybor City is a historic part of Tampa and this food tour offers visitors a real taste of the area. This Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour guides visitors to different eateries to sample local food and drink.
All the while learning the history of Ybor City as you make your way from tasting to tasting. Not a typical touristy option, this tour is a great way to really experience the local side of Tampa.
▶ BOOK Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour
Guided Tampa Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart
⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours
Explore the streets of downtown Tampa in style, golf style, that is. This guided tour will carry you throughout Tampa on a golf cart, shedding light on the best places to go and all the things to do and see.
You’ll also gain some great insight on the history of Tampa and get in on some well-kept secrets of the place too.
▶ BOOK Guided Tampa Tour in a Golf Cart
Tampa History Cruise
⭐ RATING: 4 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 Hours
Go back in time on this history cruise around Tampa harbor. This is a fun family-friendly choice in that you’ll get to see an actual pirate ship!
Other sights along the way include gorgeous multimillion-dollar homes and the famous ‘Plant Hotel’. As you relax on this cruise around the harbor your guide will fill you in on all the details of Tampa’s storied past. Light refreshments are also included on this tour.
Best Hotels in Tampa
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay – Luxury
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay goes above and beyond to offer visitors a luxurious experience. Their rooms are raved about for their cleanliness and top of the line comforts.
Big bay windows offer such a natural and comfortable glow on each room. Whether you go with a Casita or a Bay View Room, your expectations will be surpassed.
A gorgeous terrace, on site restaurant and bar, not to mention two outdoor pools complete with hammocks, what’s not to love?
⭐Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay Reviews (8.4/10 Stars)
I hate hotels because I am a huge germaphobic. However this hotel was excellent all around. The service of each individual that I came in contact with was pleasant and that made the stay ten times better. I would love to come here again. – Kyra (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Comfort Suites Tampa Airport North – Mid-Range
Comfort Suites Tampa Airport North is a good find in the city. Room accommodations are comfortable, not over the top, but clean.
Outdoor pool and hot tub are quaint and offer a great way to unwind after a long day exploring Tampa. The complimentary breakfast and staff make up for any lackluster room details with fantastic service.
If you’re interested in staying in another part of town, there are some family friendly hotels on the Tampa Riverwalk too.
⭐Comfort Suites Tampa Airport North Reviews (8.4/10 Stars)
We had a great trip in this clean and convenient hotel! – Eric (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Comfort Suites Tampa Airport North
Hotel South Tampa & Suites – Budget
Hotel South Tampa & Suites is an older facility, with outside entrances to each room. The rooms have been updated here and there, but still have a retro feel, though they are well kept. Some rooms even include kitchenettes and each room has free wifi.
The outdoor pool is a fun place to splash and have a good time. And the courtyard, complete with beautiful palm trees is a great place for the kids to play.
⭐Hotel South Tampa & Suites Reviews (8/10 Stars)
Friendly staff and good hotel for the price. – Rainer (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Hotel South Tampa & Suites
Renting a Car in Tampa
Tampa is a bustling city so you’ll definitely want to have a rental car available to get your family from place to place.
Most major airports include a rental car center, so if you’re flying into Tampa, you should be able to pick one up once you land. Most major rental car companies have branches in Tampa.
Clearwater
Clearwater Beaches
This area is known for its beautiful beaches. We absolutely love the beaches here because of the warm water temperature and how family-friendly the beaches are.
If visiting beautiful beaches is a big factor in your Tampa vs Clearwater decision, you will want to spend more time in Clearwater.
Clearwater Beach
The city’s main attraction, Clearwater Beach, offers an exceptional day at the beach experience for families. Not just in comparison to other beaches in the area, this beach is consistently rated one of the top beaches in the United States.
Its pristine appearance makes the whole beach experience seem magical. The white sand, warm ocean temperatures, and crystal clear water are captivating. If you’ve ever considered paddleboarding, this is a perfect place to start as the calm waters are very forgiving to beginners.
Also, the shallow waters here are an excellent environment for kids to learn how to snorkel. They will be so excited to see the world below the water’s surface!
If the family gets tired of swimming (which you can do here!) and building sand castles, there’s so much more to explore beyond the beach area. Kids are always thrilled to find a beach playground or fly a beach kite, but this one raises the standard with not only a splash pad but also a pool.
A nearby beach boardwalk, lined with restaurants and bars connects the beach to Pier 60, which is chalk full of attractions and activities too. Overall, Clearwater Beach couples the natural beauty of the area with stellar amenities, making it a hard to beat vacation destination.
Sand Key Park
Sand Key Park is located just one mile south of Clearwater Beach and offers a much more laid back feel. This is a great second option to Clearwater for families who appreciate a more intimate, less flashy beach experience. And for those vigilant about their family’s well being, Sand Key Park is considered the safest beach for kids in this area.
Just like Clearwater Beach, Sand Key Park delivers staggering ocean vistas. The kids can enjoy the water here as well as check out the playground, go shell hunting and even visit the dog park. It’s the perfect place to settle in a beach chair and enjoy the day!
The sand dunes and salt marshes are also fun places to explore. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a sea turtle laying eggs or birds nesting nearby. Other standard amenities including picnic areas with grills and restrooms are available here.
Though not technically in Clearwater, keep in mind that the staggeringly beautiful Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island State Park are only a stone throw away from Clearwater, in Dunedin, Florida. Sunset Beach Clearwater in Tarpon Springs is another honorable mention.
Things to Do in Clearwater
There are so many fun things to do in Clearwater in October. From the St. Petersburg Pier, to the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, to the Clearwater restaurants, there are all sorts of fun activities to do on your vacation.
Pier 60
Pier 60 is one of the city’s most treasured attractions. Clearwater in August is a great time to visit Pier 60, as most of the summer crowds have died down.
Renowned for its 1,080 foot pier, it’s a dream spot to try your hand at fishing. It’s also home to one of the gulf coast’s largest beach playgrounds. It’s heaven for all ages.
Visit in the evening to watch the sun sink low into the Gulf and witness the pier come to life with nightly crafts and entertainment. No matter the time of day you visit, Pier 60 is always a great family-friendly attraction in Clearwater.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
After hours on the beach, it’s nice to spend some time indoors. Enjoy the air conditioning and escape the sand for a moment at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Unlike most aquarium experiences, this location is a rescue facility. It’s a great spot for kids to explore and learn about the countless species of sea life, while also getting a special look inside an animal hospital.
Tours in Clearwater
Dolphin Boat Tour in Clearwater Beach with Free Ice Cream
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 Hours
A dolphin cruise is virtually a requirement for a true Clearwater experience. This Dolphin Boat Tour is a quaint experience, as visitors board a charming watercraft to putt around the harbor.
We went on a dolphin tour when we were in Clearwater, and it was so much fun. My youngest learned how to say dolphin while we were on the Gulf Coast in Florida because we saw so many dolphins while we were in the area.
As if the possibility of spotting sweet dolphins wasn’t exciting enough, the sweetness continues with ice cream sundaes. Your kids will go nuts for this tour!
▶ BOOK Dolphin Boat Tour in Clearwater Beach with Free Ice Cream
Sunset Cruise from Clearwater
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 1.75 Hours
There’s nothing like being out on the water during golden hour. This Sunset Cruise from Clearwater captures that magic. Not as lively as the dolphin and ice cream cruise, a Clearwater Sunset Cruise offers a more calm and relaxing vibe.
Passengers will enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico bathed in sunset light, aboard a massive, double-decker boat. You can even make a toast to the day with an included glass of Champagne.
▶ BOOK Sunset Cruise from Clearwater
Best Hotels in Clearwater
The Karol Hotel, St. Petersburg Clearwater, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel – Luxury
The Karol Hotel describes itself as being timeless yet modern, and refined yet relaxed. It’s a tough task, but this beautiful hotel lives up to its aim. An outdoor pool, fitness center and convenience store add to the comfort of this property.
Striking and elegantly decorated rooms and suites fill this hotel. And the vantage points from Vantage Rooftop Bar defy description. Lunch under an umbrella, on the outdoor patio of K Club Bar & Bistro, as you look out over the water is a must while staying here.
⭐The Karol Hotel, St. Petersburg Clearwater, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel Reviews (9.4/10 Stars)
The Karol is absolutely beautiful. Every detail has been thought of with the best interest of comfort and elegance. We enjoyed the relaxing roof top bar. – Nichole (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: The Karol Hotel, St. Petersburg Clearwater
Residence Inn by Marriott Clearwater Downtown – Mid-Range
Residence Inn by Marriott features all-suite accommodations aiming to offer guests everything they need to feel relaxed, refreshed, and productive. That means comfortable studio, one- and two-bedroom suites.
Our favorite thing about these suites is the separate areas for living, dining, and sleeping, making this one of the best Clearwater Resorts for families.
There’s a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning that doesn’t disappoint. The outdoor pool and lounge area are great additions to this hotel as well.
⭐Residence Inn by Marriott Clearwater Downtown (9.4/10 Stars)
Amazing service! The room was super clean. The AC worked amazing.There were enough towels, it even had big bottles of body wash, shampoo and conditioner. The breakfast was decent. I can’t complain, give it a try. – Maribel (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Residence Inn by Marriott Clearwater Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Clearwater/St. Petersburg-Ulmerton Road – Budget
At a budget price, Hampton Inn & Suites Clearwater offers quite the bang for your buck. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. They feature flat-screen TVs, and free wifi and are even one of the pet-friendly hotels in Clearwater.
The free hot breakfast and stunning outdoor pool make Hampton Inn & Suites a great catch. If you’d rather skip the hotel meal in the morning, there are a ton of breakfast restaurants in Clearwater Beach.
If you’re looking for other budget hotel options in Clearwater, check out our Clearwater Motels Guide.
⭐Hampton Inn & Suites Clearwater/St. Petersburg-Ulmerton Road Reviews (8.6/10 Stars)
Very friendly staff, hotel room was very clean. 5 star for the price!!! – Paul (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Hampton Inn & Suites Clearwater/St. Petersburg
Renting a Car in Clearwater
With beaches to visit and attractions to see, having a rental car at your disposal when visiting Clearwater is essential. Major rental car companies, including Enterprise, Avis, and Hertz, have branches in the area.
Local rental companies like Gulf Rent A Car and Cars 2 Rent are other options as well.
Flying into Tampa Airport vs Clearwater Airport
Tampa International Airport is a buzzing facility that most major airlines offer services to and from, so you shouldn’t have trouble flying into this location. Plus, there are tons of hotels near the Tampa Airport when considering accommodations.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport’s main domestic airline is Allegiant. Allegiant flies into and out of this airport to around 60 cities throughout the US. This airport is definitely a viable option, but keep in mind that flights will be more limited here than in Tampa.
The most cost-effective flights are going to be in and out of the Tampa International Airport.
▶ BOOK Flights to the Tampa and Clearwater Area
Another option is to fly into Orlando. The drive from Orlando to Clearwater or Tampa isn’t very long, and you may find some good flight alternatives here.
How Far is Clearwater Beach from Tampa?
The distance from Tampa to Clearwater Beach is 25 miles, which is about a 60-minute drive time.
How to Get from Tampa Airport to Clearwater Beach
Local transportation, like hailing a taxi or booking a private shuttle, is the best option to consider when planning for transportation from Tampa Airport to Clearwater Beach.
Hotels Between Tampa and Clearwater
There are a handful of cities between Tampa and Clearwater. Here are a few good options of hotels between Tampa and Clearwater to choose from if you decide to stay somewhere in between.
Avalon Hotel – Downtown St. Petersburg
The Avalon Hotel in the downtown area of St. Petersburg is not your run-of-the-mill place to stay. It’s a boutique hotel, with a bold fashionable message. Boasting both King and Queen bed staying rooms and suites as well, it’s an edgy but fun choice.
The cobblestoned terrace surrounding the gorgeous outdoor pool is peppered with adorable turquoise tables and chairs, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee or tea in the mornings.
Great location. This hotel is easily accessible to museums, the waterfront and some of the best restaurants in downtown St. Petersburg. The friendly staff and truly fun environment make the Avalon Hotel the best hotel between Tampa and Clearwater.
⭐Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg Reviews (9.2/10 Stars)
GREAT stay! This place is great! It’s super cute. Service was amazing! The restaurant/bar next door was awesome. The pool was beautiful. We didn’t use it because of time- but it was gorgeous. Location was great too. fun dining and concert venue. LOVED it!! – Aubin (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg
Hampton Inn & Suites – Tarpon Springs
Hampton Inn & Suites has everything you dream of in a good hotel. A spacious, comfortable well, kept room (equipped with King or Queen options), a picturesque outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a convenience store to help ease those late-night cravings.
Just a jump, hop, and skip away from the famous Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks and the surrounding attractions throughout Tampa bay counties, Hampton Inn & Suites is an amazing place to stay.
⭐Hampton Inn & Suites – Tarpon Springs Reviews (8.8/10 Stars)
Front desk staff were professional and friendly. The cleaning crew were friendly and professional. All great representatives of the company. – Richard (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Hampton Inn & Suites – Tarpon Springs
Home2 Suites by Hilton – Largo
While researching hotel prices, you might find staying in Largo, Florida appealing. Home2 Suites by Hilton is an exceptional hotel featuring king & queen bed studios as well as king bed suites. A relatively new hotel, the facility and rooms are state of the art and in tip-top shape.
Each room features a full kitchen, which is a life-changing feature when traveling with a family. Free wifi is provided along with breakfast each morning. The waffle machine can turn even the saddest frown upside down.
The outdoor pool is surrounded by a fun and comfortable terrace where you can soak up the sun or even barbecue on one of their grills. Home2 Suites by Hilton is a piece of Floridian paradise.
⭐Home2 Suites – Largo Reviews (9.4/10 Stars)
Relatively new hotel so it’s still very clean. I love that there’s a microwave, almost full size fridge, dishes, and even a dishwasher! The staff seemed nice. The only improvement I would make are the pillows. Def need higher density pillows. – Verified Traveler (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Home2Suites – Largo
Is Tampa Cheaper Than Clearwater?
Yes, some major travel expenses are far less expensive in Tampa when compared with Clearwater. Hotels and transportation (including shuttles and airport transfers) expenses tend to be significantly cheaper in Tampa.
Tampa vs Clearwater Beach vs St Pete Beach
When comparing Tampa vs Clearwater vs St Pete Beach there’s a central point to consider – city feel.
Tampa is a buzzing metropolis, so if you’re looking for the fast-paced energy of the city with lots to do, see and eat, this could be the best option for you.
Clearwater Beach is a high-end beach town. It’s separate from the busy city, but still has an active pulse of attractions and sights. This is a fun place to visit if you want the beach experience, but also the glamor and advantages of a high-affluent city.
St. Pete Beach is the most laid back of the trio. It’s a small town founded on the beauty and charm of the environment as opposed to additional flash and entertainment. This is a great location to visit if your family is looking for a relaxing getaway, to enjoy each other’s company and reconnect with nature.
When is the Best Time to Visit Tampa and Clearwater?
September in Clearwater is typically still muggy, so you’d be better off to wait till later fall. November in Clearwater is the best time of year to visit. Tampa is comfortable then too.
The months of October through December offer a reprieve from the summer heat and humidity, yet the temperatures still remain comfortable enough to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities.
FAQ: Tampa vs Clearwater
Is Clearwater in Tampa?
No, Clearwater is not included in the city of Tampa. This is often confusing as Tampa, Clearwater and St. Petersburg are all considered part of Tampa Bay.
Are Clearwater and Tampa the Same?
Clearwater and Tampa are not the same places. Though they are located near one another. They are two distinct cities, and they are both very different.
Is Clearwater Better Than St Pete?
Clearwater and St. Pete are both happening places on the gulf coast with so much to offer. That said, they each embody their own character, so depending on what you’re looking for, you may prefer visiting one over the other.
Clearwater is a modern beach city with a bit of a more polished and impressive feel. St. Pete offers more of a classic, laid-back beach experience. It’s not as concerned with glitz and glamor the way Clearwater is.
Is St. Petersburg Better Than Tampa?
It all depends on what you’re looking to get out of your vacation to Florida when comparing Tampa vs Clearwater. If you’re looking for the classic beach vacation experience, St. Petersburg fits the bill, and its beaches are hard to beat.
That said, if you’re interested in experiencing the style and glamor of a big Floridian city, Tampa will better fit your expectations.
Should I Visit Tampa Aquarium vs Clearwater Aquarium?
These two aquariums are very different, so you could, in fact, visit both and not feel like it was a redundant experience. Depending on your level of interest or pull to specific attractions, one aquarium might better fit your musings than the other.
Tampa Aquarium checks the boxes of what you typically expect to see at an aquarium. It’s large and full of exhibits and marine life attractions.
Clearwater Aquarium, on the other hand, is a rescue and rehabilitation center. The marine life featured here are similar to that of Tampa, but these have been rescued. The facility in Clearwater is smaller, bringing the whole experience to a much more intimate level.
We have been to both aquariums and had a great time at both. If you want to see dolphins, you can see them at the Clearwater Aquarium. However, if you only have time to visit one aquarium, I would pick the Tampa Aquarium because there is a lot more to see and do.
Is Clearwater the Nicest Beach Near Tampa Bay?
Clearwater is an exceptionally beautiful beach. Not just for Florida, it’s considered one of the top beaches to visit in all of the United States. That said, there are several other nice beaches in Tampa and surrounding areas.
Are Tampa and Tampa Bay the Same?
This is a common question. Let’s discuss the difference between Tampa and Tampa Bay. Tampa is a city in Florida.
Tampa Bay is the name of the bay located on the western gulf coast. The span of this bay includes the cities of Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater.
Conclusion: Tampa vs Clearwater
All in all, Tampa and Clearwater are both great vacation destinations. That said, if you’re looking to determine the best place to live or vacation, a few key factors set these cities apart.
Beaches: Aside from the one standout of Ben T. Davis, Tampa doesn’t really have them. Sure, they have a handful of beachside parks, but not full-fledged beaches like those offered in Clearwater and the surrounding areas.
If you’re basing your Tampa vs Clearwater vacation decision on beach accessibility and overall enjoyment, Clearwater is the clear winner here.
Expenses: Clearwater offers a more cohesive beach vacation experience, but you’ll feel it in the pocketbook. The price of a hotel is nearly 50% more expensive in Clearwater vs. Tampa.
And transportation around Clearwater can cost you nearly 3 times the amount it would in Tampa. Food and other necessities are comparable in price, but if you’re traveling on a budget, this decision could have a big impact on your travel plans.
Whether you end up enjoying your time away in the cityscape of Tampa or spend your time floating around in Clearwater, you can’t lose when comparing Tampa vs Clearwater. Here’s to finding your family’s happy place!
