The very best of Clearwater Beach can be experienced on Friday nights in my opinion and that’s mainly due to the night shows that happen out on the beach! Clearwater is super touristy but it’s definitely a place I recommend to travelers to the Tampa area. One of the most unique attractions that happen here in Clearwater Beach is the Sugar Sand Festival which takes place usually in November. It’s a great time to enjoy prime Florida weather and gaze at the artists creating their sandy works of art which expands over 21,000 square feet. It’s also a great time to enjoy free live music, fireworks and a sand sculpting class right on the beach.
#1 Some of My Favorite Restaurants
- The Palm Pavilion: A really nice beach front restaurant with amazing scenery and vibes. You can enjoy some live music and arrive in your bikini if you’d like! I LOVE the wasabi scallops and their $5 fish tacos with blackened grouper!
- Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill: Directly on the other side of the parking lot from Palm Pavilion lies Frenchies! It definitely has a more “party” vibe to me and it’s directly in the sand. I recommend Frenchies for the scenery and the volley ball net directly in front of the bar.
- Jimmy’s Crows Nest: A rooftop bar giving you a full 360 degree view of Clearwater Beach and the strip! This is the perfect bar to catch the sunset – just arrive early because it can get pretty busy!
#2 Fun Bars On The Beach and Strip
- Shephard’s on the Beach: The only “nightclub” atmosphere on the beach. You can enjoy live music and great drinks right on the beach!
- The Brown Boxer: They have amazing Pina Coladas and this bar is located right on the strip. You can also enjoy live music while mingling with other patrons! I would consider this bar a little “divey” for sure – but fun!
- Frenchie’s Rockaway Grill: Great little bar at night with amazing drink specials and good scenery. A place to hang out after spending time in the sun and enjoy fruity drinks all night long. They also have live music on weekend nights.
#3 Local Tips
The best night to visit Clearwater is definitely Friday nights as that is when they have the Night Shows. Local artists gather at the pier and sell their local handmade gifts and some even perform shows! You can meet Captain Jack Sparrow who walks the pier, get a caricature drawn up or watch a movie on the beach. I always recommend you check the official page of Clearwater for showing times! It’s super cute to cozy up on the beach and watch a flick with your loved ones.
