Downtown Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach's story begins as part of the Sand Key barrier island system stretching along Florida's Gulf Coast. For generations, this pristine stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters remained largely undeveloped, known only to local fishermen and the occasional adventurous visitor who made the challenging journey across Clearwater Harbor from the mainland.

The transformation began in 1912 when the city of Clearwater included construction of a municipal beach pier as part of a forty million dollar bond issue, marking the first significant infrastructure investment in what would become one of America's most beloved beach destinations. However, the barrier island remained largely inaccessible to most visitors due to the lack of reliable transportation.

Everything changed in 1915 when the first bridge was built across Clearwater Harbor, finally connecting the mainland city with its barrier island beach to the west. This initial connection was dramatically improved in 1927 with the opening of the Memorial Causeway, known as the "Million Dollar Causeway," which replaced the obsolete wooden bridge and established the reliable link that would fuel Clearwater Beach's transformation into the area's prime tourist resort.

The post-World War II era marked the beginning of Clearwater Beach's modern hospitality industry. In 1947, Hotel Cabana was built as a single-story building originally named Coca Cabana, serving as a haven for laid-back sun lovers. The following year, 1948, saw the opening of Bob Heilman's Beachcomber, which became an enduring Clearwater Beach institution that continues to serve visitors today.

The 1960s brought significant infrastructure improvements that solidified Clearwater Beach's status as a world-class destination. Pier 60 opened in June 1962 as an extension of the original municipal pier, taking its name from State Road 60 which terminates at the beach. The Clearwater Causeway was rebuilt as an elevated four-lane span in 1963, providing even better access for the growing number of visitors.

Modern development has transformed Clearwater Beach into a luxury destination while preserving its natural beauty. The Beach Walk project, completed in July 2008, created a compact pedestrian zone featuring high-end hotels and condominiums. The area now hosts world-renowned resorts including the Sandpearl Resort, Hyatt Regency, and Sheraton Sand Key Resort, establishing Clearwater Beach as a premier Gulf Coast destination.

Today, Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among the world's best beaches, earning recognition from USA Today, TripAdvisor, and Travel + Leisure as one of "The 15 Best White-Sand Beaches in the World." The daily Sunsets at Pier 60 celebration draws thousands of visitors to witness spectacular Gulf sunsets accompanied by street performers and live music. With 2.5 miles of pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and luxury amenities, Clearwater Beach has truly earned its reputation as America's premier beach destination.