We are so back! By we I mean me and summer and the beach. Growing up, summer was my favorite season and the beach was my favorite destination. Childhood summers consisted of weekend trips to the shore and week days wondering when the next trip would be.
I am now lucky enough that I can have those weekend beach trips all year round. Florida is surrounded by gorgeous beaches that are great destinations any time of year, but summer is by far the most popular. I’ve been around to a lot of Florida beaches but I’m most familiar with Clearwater. My most recent trip was at the very end of April so another trip is due soon! And with how hot it already is, I know it’s going to be a very beachy summer.
Beyond the beach, the town of Clearwater has a really entertaining nighttime scene. There are a ton of beachy bars and restaurants that are actually really good and the locals are super welcoming. I’ve listed some of my favorites below!
For a great happy hour:
Clear Sky Beachside Cafe – Less than a block from the beach, you’ll find Clear Sky Cafe. They have one of the best happy hours that we have found on the beach. The food and drinks always hit and the staff will make you feel right at home. This location recently got a renovation giving it more of a light beachy feel.
For sunset views:
Jimmy’s Crows Nest – Hop on the elevator at the base of the Pierhouse 60 Marina Hotel and take it to the 8th floor and find Jimmy’s Crows Nest! The drinks are nothing out of the ordinary, though you can get your drink in a bucket, so you’re really there for the views and vibes. Once it gets close to sunset, you’ll hear the bar blasting Kenny Chesney’s “When the Sun Goes Down,” and the friendly staff will be walking around with complimentary sunset shots. And yes, they do this every night! It feels like counting down to the new year every time there is a sunset. And it is always stunning watching the sun set behind the ocean.
For a pretty craft cocktail:
Reefer’s Social Club – Reefer’s is a newer bar compared to some of the other spots but it seems to be a huge hit! It’s a tiny trendy spot with bartenders who will put a lot of time into making you a nice drink. There are cute spots in here for photos and they serve breakfast as well, which feels random but I’ve heard it’s great!
For live music:
Coco’s Crush Bar and Grill – Once that sun has set I recommend moving along to some lively locations! Coco’s Crush is always so fun! They have a great outdoor atmosphere and there’s live music every night of the week. We have made a few friends here as everyone is dancing and chatting and Mo is ever the extrovert.
Cooters Restaurant and Bar – No dancing at Cooters (I mean, not as a rule, but generally it is a more chill bar), but they do have live music! One time, the band sang happy birthday to me, it’s on film somewhere.
For a late night out dancing:
Shephard’s Tiki Beach Bar and Grill – A little further from the center of town but still walkable, this bar features a dance floor and if I remember correctly, there is live music as well. We’ve only gone once or twice since we get tired by the time we reach Shepard’s but I know this is a great spot if you’re looking to spend the night dancing!
There are a TON of other bars worth visiting and there is something for everyone! We seem to discover someplace new every time we visit. I’m still in search of another good rooftop but for now, I can’t wait until our next trip!
