Are you visiting Clearwater Beach for the summer and wondering where to go?
Most of the locals will stay off the strip and eat around the residential neighborhoods, but there are also quite a few spots on the beach that are still enjoyable even if you’re not a tourist or want to stay close to the ocean for the sunset. I have you covered with this guide of local spots around the area.
Badfins Food + Brew: This is a great spot for those who love craft beer with an extensive and locally-focused beer list. The food is American food fare such as mac and cheese, fries, nuggets, nachos, and some seafood options as well. Lots of taco choices as well. 215 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater, FL 33767
Caretta on the Gulf: This is a hotel restaurant inside the Sandpearl Resort. Caretta has really great food and one of our favorite things to order here is the sushi which is always delicious. The views of Clearwater Beach also cannot be beat, we often dine on the patio overlooking the pool area. They also have a small pool bar with food as well. Before the pandemic they also had a great brunch buffet, but have made it ala carte since the pandemic started. It’s pricey, but worth the spend if you are trying to indulge. 500 Mandalay Avenue #100, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
Marina Cantina: This is such a glorious spot to watch the sunset pass by on Clearwater Beach after a day at Pier 60. It looks like a boat, but it is a full-fledged restaurant and bar. It’s not a traditional Mexican restaurant, but more of fusion/American food. Parking can be a challenge, so plan ahead and walk if you have to. 25 Causeway Boulevard., Clearwater, FL 33767
Shephard’s Beach Resort: If you like to party, Shephard’s is for you. They have a restaurant, nightclub, tiki bar, and a tequila bar inside their beach resort. They regularly host live music and DJs to come and play on their outside bar. There can be cover charges and ticket sales associated with it, so I would check ahead before going. If you’re just going to hang out on the water, the bar is just fine for a chill day and they have a good amount of your standard American food like burgers and fries. Their restaurant also has a brunch buffet on the weekends. 619 South Gulfview Boulevard, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767.
Ice&Cream Creamery: If you’re looking for a great ice cream shop with multiple flavors to beat the heat, Ice&Cream can help satisfy your craving. They have two locations around Clearwater Beach and other locations in Pinellas County. Multiple locations.
King’s Pizza: Who doesn’t enjoy a slice of pizza with an ice cold drink during the summer, especially during a vacation? King’s Pizza is a take-out pizza joint, nothing fancy but tasty pizza. They also have wings and fries. Prices are more than fair, especially considering the tourist spots around. They offer pizza by the slice and delivery of whole pies – in case you’re feeling lazy at your hotel. 325 Coronado Dr. Clearwater, FL 33767
SHOR American Seafood Grill: If you don’t mind splurging at a hotel restaurant, the Hyatt Regency on Clearwater Beach has an excellent seafood restaurant. The dress code is resort casual. You’ll find American Blue Crab Cakes, Calamari, Lobster Ravioli, Grouper, Surf and Turf, and more on the menu. They also create menus for special occasions regularly so check their listings on OpenTable. 301 South Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
Tropico Rooftop Cantina: Upstairs from SHOR at the Hyatt Regency, check out this rooftop bar and cantina that has one of the best sunset views ever. I have been up here to enjoy some great sunsets and drinks at the bar. It was once just a secret for guests, but it is now listed on the Hyatt website. 301 South Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
Blessed Cup: I love a good coffee shop, especially to start my day on vacation. Blessed Cup is a cafe with breakfast and a focus on locally-roasted coffee. You’ll find your standard hot and cold drinks as well as smoothies and other beverage choices. 483 Mandalay Ave #200, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
Enjoy!