Thursday, May 1, 2014

Escape The Crowds And Opt For Snorkeling In Clearwater FL

By Tracie Knight


The Florida Keys are one of the most popular destinations in the US if you enjoy snorkeling. Unfortunately their popularity also means that they can be packed with people, especially during high season. If you'd rather snorkel in peace, a great alternative is to try snorkeling in Clearwater FL.

Clearwater is located in the Tampa Bay Area on the west coast of Florida. It lies in Pinellas County, with the Gulf of Mexico to one side and Tampa Bay to the other. The city of Tampa is located about 22 miles to the east and Tampa International Airport is close by.

The city may be the smallest of the three major cities in the Tampa Bay Area but it is no backwater. It hosts large festivals and events throughout the year and also has all the amenities a visitor might want. There are restaurants for every taste and seafood, especially the grouper sandwich, is a specialty. Moreover, there is a wide range of accommodation, no matter what your budget.

Some of the many activities to take part in when you visit are golf, tennis and ice skating. Movie lovers shouldn't miss the Capitol Theatre, one of the oldest to still operate in Florida. There are plenty of parks and for drinks at sunset, head to Pier 60. Visit the city's aquarium to get acquainted with the local marine life. The Church of Scientology also has its headquarters here.

Many people agree that the beaches of Clearwater are among the most spectacular in the USA. They are wide with sand that is almost a sugary white. The city's main beach is probably the biggest attraction but another popular beach is the one at Sand Key.

With the beach comes a variety of activities, of which many are water based. Charter a boat and go sailing or fishing in the waters of the Gulf. Alternatively, go on a cruise, even a pirate-themed one. For an adrenalin rush, try jet-skiing, speedboat rides or parasailing. While this is not the best destination for surfers, stand-up paddle-boarding is a great alternative or you may want to rent a kayak with a glass bottom.

Visibility is excellent in the waters around the city and an abundance of marine life makes snorkeling here a joy. At Sand Key and the more remote Shell Key, you may even be lucky enough to see a manatee or some dolphins. A short ferry ride can also take you to Fort Dade. This old fort is in ruins and parts of it have fallen into the water, creating an unusual habitat for colorful fish and starfish, among others. If you'd rather not venture out too far, even the shallow waters just off the main city beach are good for snorkel action, with the possibility of spotting stingrays.

Clearwater is one of the sunniest cities in the USA and can be visited at any time of year. The low season is during the summer months, when humidity levels can be uncomfortable and the heat will drive you to the water. Cooler and more comfortable weather arrives in fall and the winter months but even then water temperatures are quite high so you can enjoy the best snorkeling.




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