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Is Key West or Clearwater better?

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is always a good activity for a day at the beach, as well. The common agreement among travelers: Clearwater has a better beach, Key West has a better overall view and selection of activities.



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Boasting temperate waters and more than 3,400 hours of annual sunshine, the beaches of Key West are some of the most popular destinations on this tropical island paradise. You can enjoy the sun, sand and warm water as well as a variety of activities like swimming, snorkeling and fishing.

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These St. Pete/Clearwater beaches have been recognized as some of the top beaches in the U.S. – and even the world!

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Yes, you can swim at our beaches, year 'round! Most visitors find our Gulf water temperatures quite pleasant, especially if they are coming from colder climates.

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Clearwater Beach's shoreline boasts white sand, turquoise water and proximity to downtown's hotels, restaurants and attractions, making it one of the area's most popular beaches to visit.

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Key West is a great destination filled with culture, natural beauty, and unique experiences. Whether it's relaxing on a beach or exploring historical landmarks such as Fort Zachary Taylor, you will never get bored in Key West.

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The water is very clear. There's a long stretch of beaches by the airport. Most of the Key West activity takes place on and around Duval Street, which ends at the ocean. Water varies with time of year and mother nature but clarity of water is best at the Fort Zack state park.

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Key West beaches are similar to The Bahamas, with white sand, coral rocks, and shallow turquoise water with tropical fish right off shore.

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Bahia Honda State Park, Big Pine Key For years, there has been widespread agreement that the best beaches in the Florida Keys are the beaches at Bahia Honda State Park at MM 36.8.

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If you're looking for the quintessential Florida Keys experience - Key Largo is your best bet. If you're looking for eclectic entertainment, spirited bars, and parties that roll all night long - Key West is certainly for you.

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Key West. There are plenty of reasons why Key West is the most popular destination in the Keys. With everything from gorgeous historical buildings (like Hemingway's Home) to bumping nightlife and great food, a stop here is a no-brainer.

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As a capital for sportfishing, boating, scuba diving, and seafood, the Florida Keys is the perfect place to get a taste of tropical Florida. Islamorada is known as the sportsfishing capital of the world, hosting the largest fishing fleet per square mile in the world.

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First-time visitors to the Florida Keys should set aside at least a week to experience the best that these legendary islands—plus the gateway areas of Miami and the Everglades—have to offer.

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47th Annual Swim Around Key West on June 3, 2023.

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Clearwater Beach is an immaculate white sandy beach with beautiful calm blue waters that are perfect for swimming, located in the resort region on the Gulf of Mexico. The crystal-clear waters of the gulf make it a popular beach for watersports, snorkeling, parasailing and jet skiing.

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How many days do you need to visit Key West? 2 to 3 days are enough for Key West. With an extra day in the city you can either visit one of the national or state parks on a day tour. Or pick more water sports.

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Clearwater Beach is known around the world for its sugar-white sands, warm Gulf of Mexico waters and fiery sunsets. Home to the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival and the Sunsets at Pier 60, Clearwater Beach provides a safe and clean experience for visitors.

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Clearwater Beach is a beautiful area and a renowned vacation destination. But let's get one thing straight: The water is not clear. More often blue, green or even tea-colored, the water in the Gulf of Mexico and Clearwater Harbor changes depending on the light and the algae in play.

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It's the Original Beach Town Florida is known for great beaches, but there's only one Clearwater Beach. It always ranks in the top echelon of beaches in the United States (and, on some lists, in the world). And the inviting Gulf of Mexico waters are always right there, just a few minutes away.

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