Welcome to the sugar-white sands of Clearwater Beach, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the sky in a spectacular display of nature and adventure. As the local experts at Pier 60 Watersports, located right at 400 Mandalay Ave directly behind the Hilton, we have the best seat in the house for everything happening on the water. Whether you are looking for high-octane thrills or a peaceful afternoon soaking in the scenery, there is no shortage of things to do in Clearwater Beach. This year, we are seeing a unique trend that combines our love for the water with the beauty of the Florida sky: the 2026 cloud-watching phenomenon. From our docks, open daily from 9AM to 5PM, we help you get front-row access to the most beautiful sights in Clearwater.
The Magic of the Clearwater Sky: Cloud Watching in 2026
According to the latest Florida Cloud Watching Guide for 2026, our coastline is currently experiencing a "summer of shelf clouds," a breathtaking atmospheric event that turns the horizon into a moving masterpiece. These massive, low-hanging formations often precede the gentle afternoon showers that keep our tropical landscape so lush. When you are out on the water with us, you get an unobstructed 360-degree view of these magic colors shifting across the sky. The guide highlights how the unique humidity levels this year are creating vibrant pinks, deep oranges, and striking purples during the golden hour. There is no better way to experience this than by being away from the tall buildings and out on the open Gulf. Whether you are on one of our jet ski rentals or drifting on a paddleboard, the reflection of these clouds on the glassy water is something you will never forget.
Spotting Rare Formations from the Water
While many visitors stay on the sand, the real pros know that the best cloud watching happens a few hundred yards offshore. From the vantage point of a kayak or a jet ski, you can see the scale of the cumulus towers and the intricate patterns of cirrus clouds that the 2026 guide describes as "nature’s brushstrokes." At Pier 60 Watersports, we recommend heading out in the mid-morning when the sky is often at its clearest, allowing you to watch the clouds build and transform throughout the day. It is a peaceful, meditative way to enjoy Clearwater Beach while still getting your fill of Vitamin Sea.
High-Speed Thrills with Jet Ski Rentals
If you are looking for a bit more adrenaline to go with your sightseeing, our jet ski rentals are the top choice for visitors and locals alike. There is nothing quite like the feeling of catching air over the gentle swells of the Gulf or zooming across the flat waters of the Intracoastal. At Pier 60 Watersports, we provide top-of-the-line equipment to ensure your ride is safe and exhilarating. Exploring the coastline on a jet ski allows you to cover more ground, giving you the chance to spot local wildlife like our famous Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Many of our guests report seeing dolphins jumping in the wake of their skis, providing a truly magical Clearwater experience.
Know Before You Go: Licensing and Safety
Safety is our priority at Pier 60 Watersports. If you are planning to be the driver of one of our jet skis, keep in mind the Florida state regulations. According to local guidelines, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must have a boating license or obtain a temporary certificate. Don't worry if you don't have one yet—temporary licenses are typically available for a small fee and a quick test right here at the beach. Our friendly staff is always on hand to walk you through the process and give you a full safety briefing before you hit the waves. We want to make sure your time in Clearwater Beach is as stress-free as possible.
Family Fun: Banana Boats and Group Adventures
One of the most unique things to do in Clearwater Beach is taking a ride on our famous banana boats. This is the ultimate group activity, perfect for families or friends who want to share a laugh. We pull you behind a powerful boat as you bounce over the waves, trying your best to stay on! It is a high-energy, splash-filled adventure that offers a different perspective of the Pier 60 area. Because we are located directly behind the Hilton, it is easy to walk over from your hotel, hop on a banana boat, and be back in time for lunch. It is one of the most popular activities for kids and the young at heart, making it a staple of any Clearwater vacation.
Peaceful Exploration: Kayaks and Paddleboards
For those who want to slow down and really take in the details of the 2026 cloud-watching guide, our kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals are the perfect fit. Paddleboarding has become a favorite for those looking for a full-body workout while enjoying the sun. It requires no prior experience, and our staff at Pier 60 Watersports is happy to offer beginner tips to get you standing in no time. Gliding through the water on a kayak or SUP allows you to get closer to the mangroves and shallow flats where you might spot manatees or sea turtles. It is the quietest way to explore the ecosystem of Clearwater Beach and provides the perfect platform for photography—just make sure you have a waterproof case for your phone to capture those 2026 cloud formations!
Why Choose Pier 60 Watersports?
- Prime Location: We are located at 400 Mandalay Ave, right in the heart of the action behind the Hilton.
- Daily Availability: We are open every day from 9AM to 5PM, weather permitting.
- Variety of Gear: From high-speed jet skis to relaxing paddleboards and family-sized banana boats.
- Local Expertise: Our team knows these waters better than anyone and can point you toward the best spots for dolphin sightings or cloud watching.
- Easy Booking: Give us a call at 727-335-6931 to check availability or just walk up and see us!
Plan Your Visit to Pier 60 Today
Clearwater Beach is more than just a place to tan; it is a destination for adventure and natural beauty. Whether you are following the 2026 cloud-watching guide to find the perfect sunset or you are ready to throttle up on a jet ski, Pier 60 Watersports is your gateway to the Gulf. We invite you to come down to 400 Mandalay Ave and see why we are the preferred choice for jet ski rentals and watersports in the area. With our convenient hours and expert staff, we make it easy to tick off all the best things to do in Clearwater Beach. We look forward to seeing you on the water and helping you make memories that will last a lifetime!
Ready for your Clearwater Beach adventure?
Jet skis, banana boats, paddleboards & kayaks — right on Clearwater Beach.