Hit the Gulf Waters: 5 Unbeatable Ways to Experience Clearwater Beach Like a Local

With pristine sugar-white sand, swaying coastal palms, and warm Gulf waves, Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among the top coastal getaways in the United States. Whether you are coming to Clearwater for a weekend retreat or an extended summer holiday, simply relaxing in a cabana is only half the experience. The real magic happens when you step off the sand and dive into the turquoise water. If you want to elevate your vacation, here is your insider guide to the top things to do in Clearwater Beach out on the open Gulf.

1. Feel the Rush with High-Speed Jet Ski Rentals

Nothing compares to the adrenaline rush of skimming across the open Gulf with salt spray in the air and the sun warming your back. Booking jet ski rentals is easily one of the most thrilling things to do in Clearwater Beach. From opening up the throttle along the open shoreline to spotting wild bottlenose dolphins cruising through emerald channels, a personal watercraft gives you total freedom to explore.

When you are ready to hit the waves, Pier 60 Watersports has you covered. Located right in the heart of the action at 400 Mandalay Ave, Clearwater Beach, FL—directly behind the Hilton—we get you on the water fast with top-of-the-line equipment and thorough safety orientations. Give us a call at 727-335-6931 or walk right up between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM daily to secure your ride.

2. Grab the Whole Crew for a Banana Boat Ride

Traveling with family, teens, or a group of best friends? Banana boat rides offer pure, laughing-out-loud entertainment. You will climb aboard a multi-passenger inflatable watercraft towed behind an energetic powerboat, bouncing across the Gulf crests and taking in sweeping views of the shoreline skyline.

It is one of the most popular group activities in Clearwater because it combines scenic coastal sightseeing with refreshing, high-energy splashes. Pier 60 Watersports offers banana boat adventures right from our beachfront location behind the Hilton, making it a breeze to walk out from your towel and onto the ride.

3. Slow Down and Explore on Kayaks and Paddleboards

If you prefer a peaceful, self-paced aquatic journey, consider renting a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. The waters surrounding Clearwater Beach are home to diverse marine life, coastal birds, and tranquil mangrove shallows. Paddling lets you look straight down into crystal-clear waters to watch stingrays drift across the sandy bottom or catch a gentle manatee surfacing for a breath.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): A peaceful full-body workout that gives you an elevated vantage point to spot marine life and enjoy panoramic Gulf views.
• Single and Tandem Kayaks: Stable, relaxing, and ideal for couples, solo adventurers, or parents paddling with kids.

At Pier 60 Watersports, our rental fleet includes paddleboards and kayaks ready to launch daily, giving you the perfect low-impact escape from busy beach crowds.

4. Catch the Magic at Pier 60 and Sunset Celebrations

After an afternoon of watersports, wind down with a Clearwater Beach tradition: the nightly sunset celebration at historic Pier 60. Located just a short stroll down the sand from our rental hub, the pier comes alive two hours before sunset and keeps buzzing two hours after the sun dips below the horizon.

Stroll past talented local artisans, watch street performers juggle and perform acrobatics, or walk to the end of the pier to see local anglers haul in their evening catch. It is the perfect spot to snap golden-hour photos before heading off to enjoy fresh Gulf seafood at nearby beachfront favorites like Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill or the Palm Pavilion.

Make the Most of Your Clearwater Beach Vacation

Clearwater Beach is famous for its lively coastal atmosphere, stunning wildlife, and endless sunshine. Whether you are craving the high-octane speed of jet ski rentals, the laughter of a banana boat ride, or the quiet bliss of a morning paddle, your vacation is waiting on the water.

Visit Pier 60 Watersports at 400 Mandalay Ave (directly behind the Hilton) or call us today at 727-335-6931 to plan your day on the Gulf. We are open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM—come make some waves with us!