Food Traveler Magazine Winter 2017 | Page 71

CLEARWATER BEACH , FLORIDA

Clearwater Beach steadily maintains its strong reputation of being one of the best beaches in the entire country . In just under a three-mile stretch , Clearwater Beach packs in a ton of entertainment , a wide variety of lodging accommodations , and a whole lot of soft sand to lay on and soak up the sun .
Clearwater Beach received the recognition of being number one on the list of “ Top 10 Travelers ’ Choice Beaches in the U . S .” by TripAdvisor . Clearwater Beach was also named “ Florida ’ s Best Beach Town ” by USA Today . The area has earned its name as being amongst the elite when it comes to the beaches , but perhaps even more so when it comes to the attractions .
Rent jet skis , take a dolphin-watching cruise , step aboard a pirate ship for dinner , or rent a boat of your own for a day of unsupervised fishing in open water . Travel to a nearby island and go exploring , take your sweetheart for a cocktail at a beachside Tiki hut , or head to the aquarium for a fun-filled day with the kids . With so many things to do and see , it ’ s no wonder why families keep coming back year after year . The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a hotspot because of the celebrity dolphin that calls it home . Winter , the aquarium ’ s resident dolphin , was behind the inspiration for the book and film , Dolphin Tale . Winter was rescued after losing her tale in a crab trap , and was given a new prosthetic tale , which she now thrives with . Going to see Winter the dolphin , during a vacation where you ’ re essentially trying to “ escape ” winter – oh , the irony !
During the winter months , you can expect mild , dry temperatures between the 60s and 70s . This type of weather is perfect for enjoying a nice walk on the beach , or even sunbathing on a warmer day . The summers usually provide late afternoon showers , so the winter time truly is perfect for making the most out of your trip . You will never care if you see snow again once you have experienced a weekend in beautiful Clearwater Beach !