Clearwater Beach Staycation: 10 Best Dining Spots

Clearwater Beach is not only known for its pristine white sands and stunning sunsets but also for its thriving dining scene. Whether you’re a local looking to unwind or on a staycation, the island offers a delicious range of options to satisfy any craving. From fresh seafood by the water to casual beachside cafes, here are the 10 best Clearwater Beach dining spots perfect for a relaxing and memorable staycation.

1. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill

If you’re on Clearwater Beach, Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is a must-visit. This iconic beachfront restaurant offers a laid-back vibe with stunning Gulf views, making it perfect for your staycation dining plans. Known for its famous grouper sandwiches, fresh seafood, and tropical drinks, you can dine right on the sand while watching a breathtaking sunset. Be sure to try their she-crab soup—it’s a local favorite.

2. Clear Sky Beachside Cafe

Clear Sky Beachside Cafe is hard to beat if you’re out for breakfast or brunch. This bustling café offers a wide range of menu options, from savory benedicts and pancakes to seafood omelets and sushi rolls. The eclectic menu ensures something for everyone, and with a prime location just a block from the beach, it’s a fantastic spot to kick off your staycation day.

3. Island Way Grill

Offering an upscale waterfront dining experience, Island Way Grill is a standout for seafood lovers. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, this restaurant is known for its sushi, fresh fish, and creative twists on traditional seafood dishes. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoor patio or sitting inside with a view of the marina, it’s an ideal spot to elevate your Clearwater Beach staycation dining.

4. Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar

For a true beach vibe, the Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar is where you want to be. Just steps from the sand, this Clearwater Beach classic has been serving visitors and locals alike since 1926. Known for its casual beach bar atmosphere, live music, and delicious tropical drinks, it’s perfect for a fun, relaxed meal by the water. Try the coconut shrimp or the blackened mahi-mahi for a true taste of Florida.

5. SHOR American Seafood Grill

SHOR American Seafood Grill inside the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort is perfect for those looking for an upscale yet approachable dining experience. The restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood with a modern twist. Their dinner menu offers everything from oysters and shrimp to perfectly grilled steaks. With stunning Gulf views from their outdoor terrace, it’s a great spot for a romantic dinner during your staycation.

6. Marina Cantina

For those craving Mexican cuisine, Marina Cantina is a great option with a unique flair. Located on the marina, this rooftop restaurant serves up Mexican-inspired dishes with fresh seafood options, like fish tacos and ceviche, in a vibrant setting. Pair your meal with one of their handcrafted margaritas or a craft cocktail while taking in stunning views of Clearwater Harbor.

7. Cooters Restaurant & Bar

Cooters offers a casual, fun dining experience right in the heart of Clearwater Beach. Known for its all-you-can-eat crab legs and happy hour oyster specials, this lively spot is perfect for those looking for a laid-back staycation meal. With daily seafood specials and a sports bar atmosphere, Cooters is the go-to spot for a casual seafood feast with family and friends.

8. Jimmy’s Fish House & Iguana Bar

If you want a true Clearwater Beach experience, head to Jimmy’s Fish House & Iguana Bar. Located inside the Holiday Inn, Jimmy’s offers stunning Gulf views, tropical cocktails, and classic Floridian seafood dishes like conch fritters, crab cakes, and key lime pie. The casual vibe and live entertainment make it a great spot to unwind after a day at the beach.

9. Crabby’s Dockside Clearwater

Crabby’s Dockside is a local favorite, offering three floors of seafood dining with panoramic views of Clearwater Beach. Known for its fresh-off-the-boat seafood, this restaurant offers everything from steamed crab legs and fried grouper to coconut shrimp and lobster tail. The rooftop bar provides a fantastic view of the sunset, making it the perfect spot to end your staycation day.

10. Caretta on the Gulf

Located in the luxurious Sandpearl Resort, Caretta on the Gulf offers a refined dining experience right on Clearwater Beach. As the area’s only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, Caretta serves up a menu that blends fresh, local ingredients with an international twist. Their seafood dishes are top-notch, and the beachfront setting is ideal for a romantic or celebratory staycation meal. If you’re looking for an elegant night out, this is the place to be.

Tips for the Perfect Staycation Dining Experience

Clearwater Beach’s dining scene has something for everyone, from upscale restaurants to casual beach bars. Here are a few tips to make the most of your staycation dining experience:

• Time your meals with sunset: Many of Clearwater Beach’s best restaurants offer incredible sunset views. Plan your dinner reservations accordingly to enjoy your meal with a picture-perfect backdrop.
• Make reservations early: Popular spots like Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, SHOR American Seafood Grill, and Caretta on the Gulf tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a table in advance will ensure you get the best seat in the house.
• Explore the local seafood: Clearwater Beach is known for its fresh seafood. Be sure to try the grouper, shrimp, and stone crab when in season. Many restaurants, like Crabby’s Dockside and Island Way Grill, offer daily catches that bring the freshest seafood directly to your plate.

With its variety of dining options, Clearwater Beach is the perfect place to indulge in fantastic food while enjoying a relaxed staycation. Whether you’re looking for casual beachside eats or an upscale dining experience, these 10 spots offer the best of what this beach town has to offer.

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