Clearwater Beach is a resort and residential area on the coast of Florida. It features white sandy beaches 4 km long. In January 2013, it was named Florida's Best Beach City by USA Today Readers' Poll.

In February 2018, it was named the best beach in the US and the seventh best in the world by TripAdvisor.

Story

In the early 1800s, Indians migrated to Clearwater from Georgia and the Carolinas. Clearwater, like many other cities in Central Florida, relied on agriculture as a means of survival. Tourism did not gain a foothold here until the late 1800s.

Clearwater became the first community in the country to expand women's suffrage. In 1927, the opening of a memorial dam took place, which connected the city center with the beach and replaced the old wooden bridge.

By the 1950s, a complex of maritime and tourist services was developing: souvenir shops, restaurants, a post office, a hairdresser's and fishing. Business in the early 60s depended on good weather and tourism. As in principle, and everywhere where the beach type of recreation prevails.

By the beginning of the 21st century, an unpleasant moment happened — the nesting seabirds that were once part of the beach disappeared.

The study showed that dogs have a bad effect on the beach: birds are afraid of them and leave their nests. The government is concerned about solving the problem and is trying to limit the passage of animals to the beach.

What to look at

• Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The complex is entirely dedicated to rescuing sick and injured marine animals. It opened in 1972 and was the filming location for the popular film Dolphin Story, which starred two dolphins along with several other inhabitants of the aquarium. Both dolphins are still here and swimming in their large pool.

After treatment and rehabilitation of dolphins, rays, pelicans and turtles, they are released into the environment.

• Moccasin Lake Nature Park

A wonderful, serene place for families to spend the day in nature.

The park stretches over 50 acres of forest full of wildlife such as birds of prey, peacocks and bald eagles. The cypress path will take you to a cliff overlooking a large lake. In the center of the park, activities are held for children: a visit to the butterfly garden, a water tower with a bunch of solar panels and an aviary with animals.

• Pier 60

This fishing pier is 1080 feet long is a holiday park and has a fully stocked fishermen's house with all kinds of fishing tackle and lures. Here you can catch Spanish mackerel, silver and spotted trout, perch, flounder and many other types of fish. As sunset approaches, Pier 60 turns into a festival with musicians and street performers, tourists and locals alike.

• Cafe Ponte

An elegant restaurant where Chef Chris Ponte offers new American cuisine with hints of French, Italian and Asian influences, creating an interesting and unexpected combination of flavors and ingredients. As an example, ribs with pure Moroccan carrots, fried onions, sesame seeds, almond oil emulsion and cilantro.

For real gourmets, the chef offers tasting menus. An extensive wine list complements the menu, while the Funky Zig-Zag bar offers interesting cocktails and drinks.

• Sea Dog Brewing Company

The pub has a spacious outdoor terrace where you can spend an evening under the stars. The extensive menu offers a classic drink set with a few extras such as fajitas, giant burgers and black prawns on skewers.

Tours

• Down South Kite & Paddle

Experience kiteboarding, a new sport that combines sailing, surfing and wakeboarding. After a short introductory lesson, take a 2-hour tour of waterways filled with dense mangroves, home to ospreys, pelicans, all sorts of other birds, and plenty of fish.

• Encounters with Dolphins

3.5-hour sightseeing tour of Clearwater Harbor aboard a sightseeing boat. During the trip, you will stop for half an hour at Compass Island, where you can collect shells or swim. If you are lucky, you will see manatees and some birds: herons, ibis, spoonbills, cormorants, storks and pelicans.

• Ream Wilson Clearwater Trail

Cycling and walking route connecting a number of neighborhoods and 20 parks. The route offers to walk in nature, have a picnic, go fishing or just relax. This place is getting more and more popular every year.

And the American Butler company will help you relax in Clearwater Beach!