When you look up the top rated beaches, Clearwater Beach is sure to pop up. The amazing thing about staying in the Avalon is that it is only four miles from Clearwater Beach, which is super convenient! While Clearwater Beach gets to enjoy the spotlight, there are some alternative beaches in the area that are worth a visit.
The first beach I would suggest would be Honeymoon Island State Park. To gain entry, there is an $8 entrance fee, but after that you have free parking and can spend all day there. Being a state park it has a lot to offer. The hiking trails give you the chance to see some of the native wildlife to Florida, the most popular activity being birding with locals and vacationers alike! The Osprey Trail takes you through common spots where you will find Osprey nests and the Pelican Trail takes you along a path where you can admire the mangroves and beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. The trails are just a small part of this huge park, as the beaches are truly magical. You can find soft white sand and emerald water, and even when Honeymoon Island State Park is at its busiest, the beach stretches far enough that you don’t feel crowded, which makes this place one of the best choices. Additionally, you can take a ferry to Caladesi Island State Park. If you choose to visit Caladesi Island, it will cost $16 per adult and $8 per child. It is so worth making the trip as it is very peaceful!
Indian Rocks Beach is also another worthy option as you get a pristine beach and is usually less crowded than Clearwater Beach. The surrounding area has a cute seaside town feeling and there are lots of areas to park. Parking in some areas is pay by plate, much like Clearwater Beach. However, there is free parking between 27th Ave and 19th Ave between the hours of 6am to 11pm but you will want to be sure to pay attention to the signs. There is a nature preserve in the area called Indian Rocks Nature Preserve which has boardwalks that offers visitors a nice stroll through mangroves and gives you a view of what Florida’s wetlands look like. Also very near the beach is a delicious restaurant called Guppy’s On The Beach, and is a wonderful place to dine after watching the sunset. Highly recommend!
Madeira Beach is another favorite, not just because of the sparkling water, or the fact that it doesn’t get crowded, it’s because when you’re all done splashing in the water and making sand castles, you can walk over to John’s Pass and enjoy walking along the boardwalk and enjoy the many restaurants and little shops. There are plenty of seafood places, pizza, and burger places to satisfy everyone’s cravings! The shops are so cute and you can find everything from shirts that change color in the sun, seashell night lights, and any souvenir you could think of to remind you of your wonderful vacation to Florida! I hope you enjoy your beach day and don’t forget your sunscreen!
Written by Haley G.