This day was cloudy and rainy, so my travel companion didn't get to see what the sunset and fun is about each evening here. I've been a few times in the past, though, and took my kids when they were younger and they enjoyed it like I always have. It's worth the visit!
You can visit by day or in the evening for the Sunset Festivals every night. The pier is big, long, and clean. This review focuses mostly on late afternoon/ evening sunset visits.
PROS: Beautiful sunset that you can see from everywhere on the beach. Watch it seem to melt into the water and disappear. You'll hear ooos and ahhs from everywhere. The noise quiets down a bit as people watch. Glorious!
Food available for purchase, including snacks, ice cream, and soft drinks.
Street performers entertaining all ages.
Many artisans and vendors are set up on the Pier with a wide variety of things for sale.
Play equipment, like huge blown up slides and jump areas, available for the kids.
Beach is very clean, and there are a few body and feet showers to rinse off before leaving. Free public bathrooms also available.
CONS: Concessions can be pricey.
PARKING IS EXTREMELY LIMITED, especially during crowded times, and it's not free. On this past visit, I found and used an app called Spot Hero to reserve parking in advance nearby for a similar price. Read the parking lot's terms for what you choose to be sure your vehicle fits. I'm sure there are other similar apps or ways to reserve parking. It was cancellable, too, in case we didn't make it.
Traffic will be tough leaving, especially in the traffic circle that goes into and out of Clearwater Beach. If you're getting lodging, try to stay somewhere that is easy traveling. If you're staying elsewhere, wait a little before leaving. Maybe hang out and eat something if a restaurant is still open.
It's worth the visit, especially if you're seeking a family vibe or like artisan crafts and such. If you're doing a more adult vibe thing and like it more subdued, try going south to Indian Rocks or similar...
Read morePier 60 in Clearwater, Florida is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful beaches and leisure activities. Its prime location, right in the heart of the beach, provides easy access to stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and stunning sunsets.
One of the main advantages of Pier 60 is that it is a public place with free access. You can stroll along the pier, enjoy the sea breeze and admire the scenery without having to pay anything. However, there are some options for paid activities, such as renting beach chairs and umbrellas.
In terms of food, Pier 60 offers a variety of food and beverage options at its kiosks and stalls. You can find everything from quick snacks like popcorn and cotton candy to full meals like hamburgers and seafood. Prices are a little high given the touristy nature of the area, but the convenience of having on-site food options makes up for it.
Service at Pier 60 varies depending on the specific location you choose to buy food or rent beach gear. Some establishments may be more efficient and friendly than others, but overall, the staff is helpful and responsive to visitors' needs.
As for parking, it's important to mention that it can be a challenge to find spaces near Pier 60, especially during peak hours. It is recommended to arrive early or consider using public transport to avoid problems.
Pier 60's quality as a tourist destination is undeniable. The beaches are clean and well maintained, offering a pleasant environment to relax and enjoy the sun. Additionally, entertainment options such as street performers and live events provide a lively and fun experience for visitors.
Overall, Pier 60 is a place worth visiting in Clearwater. Its stunning location, varied food options, friendly service and captivating tourist environment make it an unmissable point of reference in the region. I recommend a visit to everyone who wants to enjoy a memorable beach day and...
Read moreEverything about the experience there was magnificent. Beautiful scenery, lots of variety with vendors on the pier. Even the snack bar was great! We went during the week of Christmas 2023. (I left Florida in 2015 and forgot how nasty the weather can be in December.) ANYWAYS, my kids and I all decided to make one purchase so we each have a souvenir to take home. There was a vendor on the pier selling all kinds of amazing decorative lights. Some were seashells that were turned into lights, some were made from glass or crystal, there were jellyfish, the Eiffel Tower, flowers, sea animals, etc. It was a really beautiful set up. I fell in love with the medium sized shell lights. I thought for $30 it was a great bargain! Well, though we returned home the day before New Year's Eve, I've kept my shell light packed in its box until this last weekend. After setting it up in my bedroom, I decided last night to turn on the switch and enjoy that beautiful, soft orange glowing light for the evening. I like soft lighting in my room through the night so I left it on. When I woke up in the morning the light was no longer working. Apparently, the bulb had burned out after only being on for one night! This normally wouldn't be an issue, except, the way they have everything glued together there is absolutely no way for me to replace this bulb. I would have to break something or cut through the glue and remove the shell from the base, which would likely ruin the whole thing. So take caution when purchasing from the vendors on the pier. Ask questions, especially with lighted objects. Make sure there's a way to change out the bulb when needed, otherwise you could be throwing away your money. This is why I only...
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