Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, Florida · Beach · Accessibility score 0.8/5
Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
About
Clearwater Beach stretches along Florida's Gulf Coast with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters that earned its name. This award-winning destination consistently ranks among America's top beaches, drawing millions of visitors who come for the gentle waves, vibrant marine life, and spectacular sunsets that paint the sky each evening.
The beach's crown jewel is Pier 60, a 1,080-foot fishing pier that extends into the Gulf of Mexico. Here you'll find the famous daily Sunset Celebration, featuring street performers, artists, and musicians who gather to celebrate each day's end. The pier area bustles with activity, from fishing enthusiasts to families enjoying beachside dining at nearby restaurants.
Beyond the beach itself, Clearwater offers an array of attractions. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the dolphin from the "Dolphin Tale" movies, provides educational experiences about marine conservation. Downtown Clearwater features shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues within walking distance of the beach.
Water activities abound, from parasailing and jet skiing to dolphin watching tours and deep-sea fishing charters. The calm Gulf waters make swimming pleasant year-round, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Visitors can easily reach Clearwater Beach via the Memorial Causeway, which connects the barrier island to mainland Clearwater. The area offers numerous accommodation options, from luxury resorts to family-friendly hotels, many within steps of the sand. Free beach trolley service helps visitors move between different beach areas and local attractions without needing a car.
Accessibility
Clearwater Beach provides several accessibility features, with Pier 60 serving as the most accessible area. The pier offers ramp access, ADA-compliant restrooms with grab bars and adequate wheelchair space, and beach wheelchair availability. Paradise restaurant provides three water-friendly beach wheelchairs free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, though users must return chairs before the restaurant closes (typically 15 minutes after sunset).
Mobility mats (MobiMats) have been installed through a partnership between the Forward Foundation, Help Us Gather (HUG), and the Disability Achievement Center. These nonslip pathways help individuals with mobility challenges, wheelchairs, power chairs, walkers, or prosthetic limbs access the beach safely without getting stuck in soft sand.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium features clearly marked wheelchair accessible areas with proper signage. Visitors can request an ADA map at admission that highlights elevators, restrooms, and ADA spaces at each exhibit.
Accessible parking is available near beach access points, though specific details about the number of spaces aren't specified in current information. For the most current details about beach wheelchair availability, mobility mat locations, and other accessibility services, contact Clearwater Beach visitor services directly, as these amenities may vary seasonally or require advance arrangements.
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- ZooTampa at Lowry Park (Tampa)
- Big Cypress National Preserve (Ochopee)