Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach is so densely developed that it can be difficult to navigate by car. (Both areas have metered parking spaces; the hours of enforcement vary.) These two islands as well as the island containing the Island Estates neighborhood are part of the city of Clearwater, whose downtown core aka "Cleveland Street District" lies a couple of miles to the east over the newly-completed Clearwater Memorial Causeway.Clearwater Beach is approximately 20 miles from Tampa International Airport, 25 from Downtown Tampa and offers such activities as parasailing, jet ski rentals, boat tours (with a common sighting of dolphins in the Gulf waters), miniature golf, fishing charters, and "pirate ship" cruises.Pier 60, named for Florida State Road 60 which terminates here, is a central spot for beachgoers and has a playground, a snack bar with attached souvenir shop, and a long fishing pier. It's the site of a daily event called Sunsets At Pier 60, which includes street performers and musical acts. On the pier itself is a nightly display of goods sold by local artisans such as jewelry, candles, and other gift items.The Jolley Trolley bus provides transportation up and down the beach. Mandalay Avenue is the main drag on the north end of the beach with Gulfview Blvd. being so on the south. Both areas feature myriad activities and establishments.Clearwater has been ranked one of the best beaches in the U.S. frequently.[ ][ ] In 2009 an episode of Brooke Knows Best was shot on the beach.[ ]