The beaches just north of Clearwater Beach are known for their laid-back atmosphere, natural beauty, and less crowded shorelines.
Fred Howard Park
Fred Howard Park is a scenic waterfront park spread across 155 acres, located on the Gulf of Mexico. The park has a unique setup, with a long causeway stretching out into the water, leading to a beach area that’s perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
The beach area at the end of the causeway features soft white sand and clear, calm waters that are ideal for swimming, especially for families with kids. The beach is wide and offers plenty of space to spread out, even on busier days. The park provides picnic shelters, playgrounds, restrooms, and plenty of parking, making it a convenient and comfortable spot for a beach day.
One of the park’s most popular features is its stunning sunset views. The long causeway extends into the Gulf, offering an unobstructed view of the horizon, making it a perfect spot to end the day by watching the sun dip below the water.
Sunset Beach
Just a few minutes from Fred Howard Park, Sunset Beach in Tarpon Springs is a charming, small beach that lives up to its name. Known for its quiet, laid-back vibe, it’s a hidden gem where locals come to enjoy the serene beauty and spectacular sunsets.
Sunset Beach is smaller than most area beaches, but that’s part of its charm. The beach offers a more intimate setting, with shallow, calm waters that are perfect for a relaxing dip. The beach is clean and has soft sand, with a few palm trees offering shade. Picnic tables and shelters are available, making it easy to have a seaside meal. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the peaceful and relaxed atmosphere here.
As the name suggests, sunsets are the main attraction. Sunset Beach offers one of the best vantage points in the area to watch the sun go down. The beach faces west, providing uninterrupted views of the Gulf’s horizon as the sky fills with hues of pink, orange, and purple. It’s a magical spot to unwind at the end of the day.
Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi Island is a natural barrier island accessible by ferry from Honeymoon Island or by boat/kayak from the Dunedin Causeway. Known for its pristine, undeveloped beaches, Caladesi offers a tranquil experience where you can enjoy soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and an abundance of wildlife. It’s an excellent spot for shelling, sunbathing, and swimming, with fewer crowds than its neighboring beaches. The park also has nature trails through pine forests and mangroves, making it a great place for birdwatching and hiking.
Honeymoon Island State Park
Honeymoon Island, just north of Caladesi, offers a mix of secluded, natural beaches and more developed areas with amenities. The northern end of the island is quieter and more rugged, perfect for exploring or shelling. It’s also one of the few state parks with a designated dog beach, so it’s a great spot to bring pets. Honeymoon Island is a prime destination for birdwatchers, and the Osprey Trail offers a chance to see the island’s diverse wildlife up close.
Dunedin Causeway
The Dunedin Causeway connects the mainland to Honeymoon Island and offers a scenic, laid-back beach experience. It’s a popular spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing due to its calmer waters. The causeway is also frequented by locals and families who enjoy the easy access and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
These beaches just north of Clearwater Beach provide a more peaceful alternative to the busy Clearwater area. They are perfect for nature lovers, shell seekers, and anyone looking for a more laid-back day at the beach.
