Ready to look beyond the “sun and fun” reputation of one of the country’s top beach destinations? There are so many fun and unusual things to do in Clearwater, Florida for visitors of all ages. Go beyond the fanfare of popular spots like Clearwater Beach to experience the magic!
From secluded beaches and harbors to lively piers and amazing restaurants, there’s simply no shortage of hidden gems in Clearwater, FL to discover during an upcoming vacation.
A tour we think you'll love
Check out 9 wonderfully unusual ways to spend time exploring beautiful Clearwater!
1) Book A Dolphin Cruise
The warm waters off Clearwater Beach are hot spots for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. With the right guide, you can see these lovely, playful creatures bouncing in the waves.
At The Tropics Boat Tours, we offer fun and exciting excursions that bring you to spots where dolphins are known to live and play. Choose from one of our popular options:
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Dolphin Exploration Tours – Venture from Clearwater Bay out Clearwater Pass on the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico in search of bottlenose dolphins. During this experience, your captain will share many wonderful facts about the nature that’s all around you. The tour also includes peeks at the magnificent coastal mansions of Florida’s Suncoast. Our dolphin guarantee means that you can book a second cruise for FREE if you don’t see any dolphins the first time.
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Sunset Celebration Cruises – Come set sail on a relaxing cruise from Clearwater Bay through Clearwater Pass to the beautiful Gulf of Mexico to see the most amazing sunset of your life. This route is famous because many cruisers get to enjoy the legendary green flash that happens in the sky. Our popular tour provide a complimentary sunset champagne toast for all guests 21 and up.
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Private Charter – Looking for something more personal? Our private charters put you in control of your own 126-passenger double-decker catamaran! Simply plan a fun itinerary with your captain for a luxurious and affordable way to find hidden gems in Clearwater.
At The Tropics Boat Tours, we make it super easy and fun to book your adventure on the beautiful Clearwater waters. As an Ocean-Friendly Certified tour agency, we’re proud to offer eco-conscious cruises that let you experience nature’s magic without a worry.
Ready to see dolphins leap and play in their natural habitat? Join us at the pier and dive into a hidden world that most visitors never get to explore. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned nature lover, our tours promise unforgettable memories and plenty of smiles.
Don’t wait—book your amazing dolphin tour or sunset cruise with us today! We can’t wait to welcome you aboard!
2) Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a state-of-the-art aquarium and rehabilitation center for Florida wildlife that offers plenty of outdoor and indoor options for exploration. Meet the dolphin pod that lives within the facility for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. You can also book special experiences like:
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VIP dolphin experience that takes you behind the scenes
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Photo sessions with dolphins
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Dolphin yoga
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Painting with a dolphin as part of a guided art class
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Opossum experiences where guests watch and learn
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Feeding time and treats with the resident tortoise
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Wildlife boat tours and sea-life safaris on the waters surrounding the aquarium
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Feeding a stingray
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Shark care experiences
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is more than just an aquarium—it’s a place full of heart and hope. Meet rescued dolphins and sea turtles, learn about marine life conservation, and enjoy interactive experiences that make every visit unforgettable. A must-visit for animal lovers and families alike!
Good To Know: The aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entry stops 30 minutes before closing. The aquarium closes an hour early on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve (Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas).
3) Explore The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail From Tarpon Springs To St Petersburg
The gorgeous Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is a paved multi-use trail that runs from Tarpon Springs to St Petersburg. Many locals use it daily. Nestled along an abandoned railroad corridor, the trail provides an ideal route for walking, jogging, cycling, and skating. This spot is one of the most scenic in the region and is conveniently located just minutes from many amazing attractions and restaurants.
Enjoy a landscape of ancient live oaks, Spanish moss, peaceful waterways, coastal birds, and hidden gems. The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset. Do note that motorized vehicles and electric bikes are prohibited. The full trail stretches 75 miles long, giving you plenty of space to walk, bike, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Nearby restaurants to enjoy after your adventures:
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Refined Roots – Located in the heart of Tarpon Springs, Refined Roots serves fresh, farm-to-table meals using local ingredients. The cozy setting makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
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Island Way Grill – Located near Clearwater Beach, Island Way Grill is famous for its fresh seafood and beautiful waterfront views. You can enjoy a variety of fish dishes, sushi, and craft drinks in a lively but relaxed atmosphere.
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The Mill – Located in downtown St. Petersburg, The Mill offers a modern American menu with Southern flavors. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and have a cozy atmosphere, making it a great place for brunch or dinner.
Walking or biking the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is a fantastic way to soak up Clearwater’s natural beauty and vibrant local life. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for all ages—making it a must-visit spot to explore outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and stunning views.
Fun Fact: The trail was first suggested in 1983. By 1990, the first 5-mile section of the trail opened between Taylor Park in Largo and Seminole Park in Seminole. The trail became such a popular spot for recreation over the following decades that officials expanded it mile by mile until it reached its current length of 75 miles.
4) Do Some Adventuring At Shell Key Preserve
Whether you’re staying at a resort on S Gulfview Blvd or nestled in at a rental home, it’s worth making the excursion to one of the best hidden gems for untapped beauty around Clearwater! Shell Key Preserve in nearby Tierra Verde consists of 1,800 acres of protected marine habitats.
Notably, it’s home to one of America’s largest undeveloped barrier islands. Situated just south of St. Pete Beach, Shell Key invites visitors to walk along a primitive coastline off Tampa Bay on Florida’s Gulf Coast to enjoy views of coastal birds and other wildlife.
This is an important nesting spot for sea turtles. These gentle creatures are a highlight of Shell Key Preserve. Visitors get a rare chance to see them nesting and hatching in a safe, natural place. Watching these amazing animals up close is a memorable experience that connects you with the rich marine life just off Clearwater’s coast.
Good To Know: Getting to Shell Key requires taking a ferry. This 195-acre barrier island is the most popular spot to visit in all of Shell Key Preserve because it’s the largest stretch of dry land within the preserve.
5) See Seaside Seabird Sanctuary
Find your wings at Seaside Seabird Sanctuary on Gulf Boulevard in Indian Shores. There’s no other place in the world quite like this spot. This 1.5-acre bird sanctuary and rehabilitation center is home to more than 100 wild native birds.
The sanctuary’s mission is devoted to giving care to sick, injured, and orphaned birds in the hopes of releasing them back into the wild. During a visit, you can meet birds, take a look at the avian hospital, shop at the gift shop, and savor beautiful beach views from the facility’s observation tower.
Visitors can observe a variety of fascinating bird species, including:
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Brown Pelicans
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Double-Crested Cormorants
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Ospreys
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Great Blue Herons
Visiting Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is a unique chance to see incredible birds up close and support their recovery. It’s peaceful, educational, and perfect for all ages. Plus, the stunning beach views make it a relaxing spot to connect with nature and enjoy Clearwater’s coastal charm.
Good To Know: The sanctuary is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission, including parking, is free. As a non-profit organization, it relies on donations from visitors to support its mission.
6) Savor Gulf Coast Vibes On Caladesi Island
Caladesi Island is a dreamy uninhabited barrier island situated just north of Clearwater Beach that’s loved by locals. The soft, glorious sands here sit between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Sound. This untouched delight is yours to explore from 8 a.m. until sundown every day of the year.
Fun and leisurely activities to enjoy off the beaten path here include:
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Strolling on a pristine, soft-sand beach area where you can relax and soak up the sun away from the crowds.
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Taking a peaceful kayak trip through the lush mangrove forest by the bay, spotting wildlife and enjoying calm waters.
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Following the scenic trail to visit the historic Scharrer Homestead, a charming glimpse into the island’s past.
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Listening to the breeze rustle through towering live oaks and mature slash pines while enjoying nature’s peaceful atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit: Caladesi is only accessible by boat. In addition, you’ll need to book your single-use day pass online with the Florida State Parks department ahead of time.
7) Stroll Through The Florida Botanical Gardens
Located roughly 5 miles from Clearwater in Largo, the Florida Botanical Gardens provide an amazing setting full of colors and scents! From tropical walkways filled with manicured gardens to winding hiking trails that cover a 60-acre natural area in the back of the property, this place offers one of the best slices of Florida wilderness there is!
The Florida Botanical Gardens is a must-visit for nature lovers. Wander through colorful gardens, spot butterflies, and enjoy peaceful trails. It’s a perfect place to relax, snap beautiful photos, and experience the vibrant beauty of Florida’s native plants and flowers.
Good To Know: The gardens are open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round. The lively seasonal calendar includes an annual pumpkin festival, Holiday Lights in the Gardens, and fun concerts.
8) Catch A Show At The BayCare Sound
The BayCare Sound is the premier music center for live shows and concert events for people throughout Clearwater, St Petersburg, Tampa, and surrounding areas. This 9,000-seat arena welcomes tons of major acts. Attendees enjoy bars serving beer, wine, and spirits throughout the venue. Concessions like popcorn, pretzels, and sodas are also available.
BayCare Sound is a must-visit for music lovers and fun seekers alike! With top-notch live shows, a lively atmosphere, and tasty snacks, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy great entertainment. Whether with friends or family, you’re in for an unforgettable night out!
Good To Know: Parking can be tight at the venue. While public parking can be found throughout downtown, using public transportation or rideshare options is highly recommended.
9) Visit The Safety Harbor Art And Music Center
You simply must visit this community space when you come to town in search of hidden gems. The building itself is an evolving work of art, featuring colorful mosaics, murals, and installations made from recycled and repurposed materials. Outside, a pink elephant statue and glass house greet visitors.
Safety Harbor Art And Music Center hosts a variety of activities including live performances often featuring blues artists such as Coco Montoya, Albert Cummings, and D.K. Harrell. The center also offers art workshops and classes for all ages, including children’s theater programs and art projects for seniors.
Community events like storytelling nights and holiday-themed projects, such as Día de los Muertos celebrations, bring people together in creative ways. You can even take home a little piece of Safety Harbor by shopping at The Artery gift shop that features art and pottery by more than 50 local artists.
Pro Tip: The best way to experience Safety Harbor is by booking a WhimZeyland land tour. During this 1.5-hour experience, you’ll tour a home created by artists Todd and Kiaralinda that has been featured on HGTV Extreme Homes and MTV Extreme Cribs.
Explore Marine Life And Hidden Gems Near Clearwater Beach
At The Tropics Boat Tours, we offer you an opportunity to experience a side of paradise that most visitors and locals don’t even know about! Come along on one of our magical boat tours in search of playful dolphins and inspiring sunsets.
Our tours give families stories they’ll be talking about for years to come. Our flexible tour schedules are perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for unforgettable excursions on weekdays and weekends.
Clearwater is a great spot to see dolphins in the wild! Let us bring you to the right hidden gems to make it happen when you book your tour with us!
