My husband and I (30 years old) are heading to Clearwater in a few days for a vacation with my sister, brother, and his fiance (all in their 20's). We have rented a house on the beach (north of Pier60). How's the construction around Clearwater, are they finished? We have rented a car and plan on hitting some of the other beaches such as St. Pete. We would love some recommendations for beaches, things to do, bars/restaurants that are fun/good, etc. We will be in the Clearwater area at night so as not to drink/drive! Thanks!

I haven't been to this area in a few years.

It would be fun to have lunch at the Don Cesar Hotel St Pete Beach. Very close to the Don Cesar is a great seafood place, Sea Critters.

There was and maybe still is a pirate ship cruise that leaves from Clearwater Beach. It is more of a booze cruise, although there maybe lots of kids and familys aboard too. The pirate ship is cheesey but also a lot of fun if you want to get into the mood. Have a good time.

Frenchy's is the toes in the sand casual restaurant in North Clearwater on the beach. Not gourmet, but you can't dine closer to the water much anywhere.

If you haven't done the Columbia, you can drive over to Tampa to Ybor City for one of the best Cuban restaurants anywhere. Ybor is worth walking around in the evening.

Fort DeSoto, Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island are all gorgeous. I'm still unclear on the geography of the area, but they aren't far from you and would be worth a visit; Google for the websites. Caladesi, btw, is accessible only by ferry from Honeymoon or by kayak--and the kayaking is wonderful! If you kayak at Fort DeSoto, on the other hand, you may well see manatees alongside you.
I like the bisque at Frenchy's, plus it's kind of an institution.

Try the E&E Stakeout Grill near Indian Rocks Beach area. Excellent!!!

There is still construction as some hotels have been torn down and condos going on. The roundabout construction is done.

Just south of Clearwater Beach is Sand Key Beach and there is a nice park there as well. If you are looking to visit the Columbia restaurant, there is one in Sand Key. I like Frenchy's too for casual food. There is also a great Irish pub called Tommy Duff's in a shopping center in Island Way Estates area which is between Clearwater and Clearwater Beach off State Road 60.

I hope you have a great time!

If you drive as far south as Indian Rocks, go for Guppys. Good food good atmoshere. If the weather is good, nice patio.

Frenchy's and Palm Pavilion are a couple of places on the beach, north of the pier, that are popular. If you feel like taking a short ride to Tarpon Springs there's plenty of Greek fare along the Sponge Docks. South of you on St Pete Beach is the Hurricane, which is popular for its view of sunset, from it's rooftop deck.