Clearwater Beach Turtle Bay
Experience breathtakingly clear waters and abundant sea turtle sightings at this beautiful Florida beach, complete with beachfront amenities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Clearwater Beach Turtle Bay
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtakingly clear waters and abundant sea turtle sightings at this beautiful Florida beach, complete with beachfront amenities.
"This beach is heavenly even during the wintertime. The beach is clean, and the water is calm and blue."
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear for the best chance to see turtles and marine life up close in the clear water.
🐢 Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain a safe distance from sea turtles and never touch them. Let them swim freely in their habitat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
Various points along the beach
Experience breathtakingly clear, calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. It's like stepping into a postcard!
Sea Turtle Encounters
Shallow waters and nearshore areas
Witness majestic sea turtles gracefully swimming in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable wildlife experience.
Beachfront Dining & Relaxation
Along the main beach strip
Enjoy a beach bar with great fish sandwiches, cold drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere right on the sand.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Turtle Sightings
Respecting Our Marine Friends
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear for the best chance to see turtles and marine life up close in the clear water.
🐢 Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain a safe distance from sea turtles and never touch them. Let them swim freely in their habitat.
☀️ Shade is Your Friend
Trees behind the beach offer natural shade, perfect for escaping the sun.
🚗 Parking & Access
Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using ride-shares.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear for the best chance to see turtles and marine life up close in the clear water.
🐢 Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain a safe distance from sea turtles and never touch them. Let them swim freely in their habitat.
☀️ Shade is Your Friend
Trees behind the beach offer natural shade, perfect for escaping the sun.
🚗 Parking & Access
Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using ride-shares.
💧 Rinse Off Facilities
Convenient washrooms and showers are available to rinse off sand before heading back.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clearwater Beach is widely praised for its stunningly clear, calm waters and beautiful sandy shores, offering a heavenly experience even in winter. Visitors love the convenience of beachfront amenities like bars, food venues, and rental services, as well as the opportunity to see sea turtles. Some find the drive and taxi costs significant, and parking can be a challenge during peak times.
"This is part of a beach area 3 or 4 different beaches together. And they have a beach bar on the beach. That was great went 2 twice. Great fish sandwiches and excellent service, cold beer and drinks"
Rick Haussman
"So beautiful and some of the beaches completely secluded"
Nicole Cummiskey
"It's a long drive from the cruise ships, so get an early start and be prepared to pay $100 one-way taxi fee, but this beach is worth it and magnificent.
There is a bar, food, lounge chairs & umbrellas for rent."
Scott Toscano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive from Orlando to Clearwater Beach is approximately 2 hours. Renting a car is the most convenient option. Alternatively, consider shuttle services or ride-sharing apps, though these can be more expensive for longer distances.
Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking options available, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Taxis and rideshares are available, but be prepared for potentially high one-way fees, especially if coming from further away like cruise ship terminals.
Clearwater Beach generally offers good accessibility with ramps and designated parking. Check with local authorities for specific accessibility features.
The beaches are connected, making it easy to walk between them. For longer distances, consider renting a bike or using local trolleys if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Clearwater Beach itself is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. Parking fees may apply.
Clearwater Beach is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific amenities like restrooms and beach bars will have their own operating hours.
Yes, beach loungers and umbrellas are available for rent from vendors along the beach.
Generally, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass containers are often prohibited. Always check local signage for specific rules.
Yes, with patience and by observing the shallow, clear waters, you can often spot sea turtles swimming naturally.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, paddleboard, and enjoy the beachfront bars and restaurants. Wildlife viewing, especially sea turtles, is a major draw.
Absolutely! The clear, calm waters make it an excellent spot for snorkeling, with opportunities to see marine life, including sea turtles.
Yes, clean restrooms and showers are available, which is very convenient for washing off sand after a day at the beach.
There's a beach bar offering great fish sandwiches, cold beer, and drinks. Separate food and snack venues are also available.
Clearwater Beach is known for its calm, clear waters, making it generally safe for swimming. Always be aware of your surroundings and any posted warnings.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings also provide clearer water and fewer people for unobstructed shots.
Use a zoom lens to maintain a respectful distance. Underwater cameras or waterproof phone cases are ideal for capturing turtles in their element.
Drone usage is often restricted in public beach areas and near airports. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The pier, the iconic beach bars, and any spot with the crystal-clear water and sea turtles are prime photo opportunities.
The aquarium is a separate attraction. While you can see parts of the coastline, dedicated photos of the aquarium would require a visit there.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the beach bar and food venues for easy meal options. The availability of restrooms and showers is a huge convenience for families. While seeing sea turtles is exciting, remember to teach children about respecting wildlife and maintaining a safe distance. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds.
💰 Budget Travelers
While parking fees may apply, consider carpooling or using public transport if available. Renting chairs and umbrellas can add up, so bringing your own beach blanket or towels is a good alternative. The real treasure here is the natural beauty and the chance to see wildlife, which costs nothing!
💑 Couples Retreat
The beachfront bar provides a perfect setting for enjoying drinks together with a view. Renting loungers and umbrellas can create a cozy private space to relax. The chance to spot sea turtles together adds a unique and memorable element to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Sea Turtle Encounters
To maximize your chances, aim for early mornings or late afternoons when the water is often most tranquil and the turtles are more active. Remember, these are wild animals, so maintaining a respectful distance is paramount. Never touch, feed, or chase them. The goal is to observe them undisturbed, ensuring their well-being and the preservation of their habitat.
While not guaranteed, the presence of sea turtles is a significant draw for visitors. It's a reminder of the rich marine biodiversity Florida's coastlines offer. Seeing them glide through the water is a truly special experience that many travelers cherish.
Beachfront Bliss: Amenities and Atmosphere
Beyond the bar, you'll find loungers and umbrellas for rent, providing comfort and shade for a full day of sunbathing. The availability of clean restrooms and showers is a significant plus, allowing you to rinse off the salt and sand before heading back. For those seeking a shaded spot away from the direct sun, trees behind the beach offer natural respite.
The overall atmosphere is one of relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you're looking for a lively spot with music and drinks or a peaceful place to unwind, Clearwater Beach caters to various preferences, making it a well-rounded destination for a beach day.
Snorkeling and Paddleboarding Adventures
Bring your own snorkel gear to get the most out of the clear conditions. You might be lucky enough to spot sea turtles, colorful fish, and other marine life just a short swim from the shore. Paddleboarders will find the gentle waves perfect for cruising and enjoying the coastline from a different perspective.
These activities offer a fantastic way to engage with the natural beauty of Clearwater Beach and are highly recommended by those who have visited. They provide an active and immersive way to experience the pristine environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit