Clearwater Beach Road Trip: Best Routes & Stops

Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked one of the best beaches in America — sugar-white sand, calm Gulf water, and a sunset that stops traffic every night. The drive from Tampa takes 30 minutes, and there's no better way to do it than in a convertible or a supercar.

The Route

From Tampa, take the Courtney Campbell Causeway (SR-60) west across Tampa Bay. The causeway is elevated above the water with views of both Tampa and Clearwater — one of the most cinematic stretches of road in Florida. Continue west on SR-60 to the beach.

Must-Stop Locations

• Pier 60 — daily sunset festival with street performers and craft vendors.
• Frenchy's Rockaway Grill — beachfront seafood, since 1981.
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium: check the aquarium's current visitor information, exhibits, tickets, and opening arrangements before your trip.
• Sand Key Park — quieter beach, perfect for couples.
• Caladesi Island State Park — ferry-only island, pristine.

Best Rentals for the Drive

• Ferrari Roma Spider: a convertible model example. A standard Roma coupe is not a convertible; confirm the exact body style and availability.
• Lamborghini Huracán — the causeway at sunset.
• Mercedes G63 — family beach trip with luggage.
• Porsche 911 Turbo S — the perfect driver's car for SR-60.
• Rolls-Royce Ghost — sunset arrival at the Sandpearl Resort.

Where to Stay

Top picks: the Sandpearl Resort (beachfront luxury), Opal Sands Resort (modern oceanfront), the Hyatt Regency Clearwater (family-friendly), and the Belleview Inn (historic, boutique). Ask concierge and the hotel to confirm whether delivery or collection can be arranged, the authorized meeting point, and any fees.

Pro Tips

• Arrive at Pier 60 by 7 PM for the sunset festival.
• Check posted parking rules, charges, clearance, and opening hours at your chosen lot; do not assume evening parking is free.
• Avoid weekends in March (Spring Break).
• Try the grouper sandwich at Frenchy's.
• Take the ferry to Caladesi Island for the most beautiful beach in the area.

Reserve Your Clearwater Rental

Tell us your dates and the car. We deliver directly to your hotel or to Pier 60.