Clearwater Beach Live Cam
The northernmost developed barrier island along the Tampa Bay Beaches
Clearwater Beach History
Clearwater Beach is a popular vacation destination in Florida, known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lively atmosphere. The area has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s.
The Tocobaga Indians were the first known inhabitants of the Clearwater area, followed by the Spanish explorers who arrived in the area in the 16th century. The Spanish named the area "Espiritu Santo Springs," meaning "Springs of the Holy Spirit."
In the late 1800s, pioneers began settling in the area, attracted by the natural beauty and abundant fishing opportunities. One of the first settlers was a man named David Harrison "Uncle Dave" Davis, who built a small wooden bridge across Clearwater Harbor and started ferrying people across to the beach.
In the early 1900s, Clearwater Beach began to grow as a tourist destination. In 1915, a group of businessmen formed the Clearwater Beach Improvement Company and began developing the area as a resort community. They built a causeway connecting the beach to the mainland and began promoting Clearwater Beach as a destination for sun, sand, and fun.
The 1920s saw a boom in tourism as the popularity of the automobile made it easier for people to travel to the beach. Hotels, motels, and restaurants sprang up to cater to the growing number of visitors.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Clearwater Beach became a favorite destination of the "snowbirds" - retirees who would spend the winter months in Florida to escape the cold weather up north. The area continued to grow and develop, with new hotels and attractions being added to keep up with the demand.
Clearwater Beach Top Tourist Attractions
Clearwater Beach is a popular vacation destination located on the west coast of Florida, known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Clearwater Beach:
- Clearwater Beach: The main attraction of the area is, of course, the beach itself. With its white sand and turquoise waters, Clearwater Beach is one of the best beaches in Florida. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, play beach volleyball, or take part in a variety of water activities like parasailing and jet skiing.
- Pier 60: A popular spot for fishing, Pier 60 also hosts a daily sunset celebration that features street performers, live music, and food vendors. The pier also has a playground, souvenir shops, and restaurants.
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Home to Winter the dolphin, who starred in the movie "Dolphin Tale," Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a rescue and rehabilitation center for marine animals. Visitors can see dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and other marine life up close and learn about the center's conservation efforts.
- Caladesi Island State Park: Accessible only by boat, this pristine barrier island is a nature lover's paradise. Visitors can hike through the mangrove forests, kayak in the calm waters of the bay, or relax on the uncrowded beaches.
- Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise: This fun-filled boat tour takes passengers on a pirate-themed adventure, complete with a treasure hunt, water gun battles, and live entertainment.
- Clearwater Beach Jet Ski Rentals and Guided Tours: For those looking for an adrenaline rush, jet ski rentals and guided tours are available, allowing visitors to explore the area's waterways and get a different perspective of Clearwater Beach.
- Beach Walk: This scenic boardwalk runs along Clearwater Beach and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Clearwater Beach Climate
Clearwater Beach is located in Florida, USA, and has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature is around 77°F (25°C), with average high temperatures in the summer months ranging from 88°F (31°C) to 91°F (33°C) and average low temperatures in the winter months ranging from 52°F (11°C) to 62°F (17°C).
The rainy season in Clearwater Beach typically occurs from June to September, with the highest rainfall occurring in August. Hurricanes and tropical storms can also affect the area during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Overall, Clearwater Beach enjoys a warm and sunny climate for most of the year, which makes it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can expect plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, with the occasional thunderstorm or tropical system during the summer months.
Clearwater Beach Geography
Clearwater Beach is located in Pinellas County, Florida, USA, on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. The island is about 3 miles long and is connected to the mainland by two bridges: the Clearwater Memorial Causeway to the south and the Sand Key Bridge to the north.
The beach itself is known for its soft, white sand and clear, turquoise waters, which attract visitors from all over the world. There are several parks and public access points along the beach, including Pier 60 Park, which is a popular gathering spot for tourists and locals alike.
In addition to the beach, Clearwater has a number of other natural attractions, including Caladesi Island State Park, which is accessible by ferry and is known for its pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and nature trails. The nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium is also a popular destination, where visitors can learn about marine life and interact with rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and other animals.
The area is also home to several golf courses, parks, and nature preserves, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, Clearwater Beach's unique geography and natural beauty make it a popular vacation spot for those seeking sun, sand, and outdoor adventure.