Clearwater and its island beaches are one of Florida's most popular vacation spots. Because of our world-reknown beaches, our extensive recreational opportunities, including the largest recreational fishing fleet on the West Coast of Florida, walking distance to restaurants and attractions, and all types of accommodations designed to fit every budget and taste, and nature-based attractions, we are the place to play in Tampa Bay! Clearwater Beach is the Best City Beach on the Gulf of Mexico according to Dr. Stephen Leatherman ("Dr. Beach"), a Florida International University professor who has been ranking AmericaÕs beaches for nine years. USATODAY.com readers ranked Clearwater Beach in their 2001Top 10 list of Best Beaches from Maine to Hawaii. Caladesi Island and Sand Key beaches have been named among the Best Natural Beaches in the United States. Caladesi Island State Park is currently ranked sixth, primarily for its water quality, rustic charm, clean beaches, on-site amenities and its emphasis on wildlife. Pinellas County is the only Florida destination which can say it has two of the top 10 beaches (Fort DeSoto Park is ranked seventh). Conde Nast Traveler has also recognized Clearwater Beach as the best city beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked "best beach" by Tampa Bay Magazine. Clearwater is very proud to be designated a Blue Wave Beach. This certification program, overseen by the Clean Beaches Council, promotes beaches which are managed to protect their natural assets. This designation assists the public in identifying the nation's cleanest and safest beaches. Caladesi Island, Honeymoon Island and Sand Key Park beaches also received the Blue Wave Designation. Home to the largest fishing fleet on the West Coast of Florida, the Clearwater Marina is a major component of the recreational core. Berthed in the marina are boats that offer a myriad of activities: fishing, sightseeing, sailing, speed, "hands on" marine life adventure, dining and dancing, parasailing and more. Dolphin watching is very popular. Pier 60, Clearwater's famed 1050 ft. sightseeing and fishing pier, complete with bait house, is the focal point of the beach. Pier 60 Park, with the only covered children's playground directly on the sand, has two play areas with age appropriate equipment-one for preschoolers and the other for 8-12 years olds. Pier 60 Park is also home to Sunsets at Pier 60, our nightly "street" festival celebrating the setting of the sun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is one of eight facilities in the United States, and the only one on the west coast of Florida, authorized to rescue and rehabilitate marine mammals. This "hands on" attraction offers personal encounters with bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead sea turtles, Kemp's Ridley sea turtles, river otters, sting rays, local fish and coral reefs. Sick and injured marine mammals recover here until they can be returned to their homes. The aquarium is home to Sunset Sam, a dolphin, world renowned for his painting. Termperate and mild, the area boasts an average yearly temperature of 73º F (23º C) and average water temperatures by season: Spring 73.7º F, Summer 84.7º F, Fall 76.7º F, Winter 63.7º F. Clearwater is safer, more affordable, quieter and calmer than other more prominent destinations. In fact, in a Money Magazine poll, Clearwater was named the safest of all Florida cities. Because of Clearwater's proximity to Orlando, only 90 minutes away, it is logical to make Clearwater-with its beautiful beaches, warm tropical breezes, and breathtaking sunsets-"home base" for excursions. Clearwater's special events offer every visitor a special reason to come, whether to hear the best in jazz at the Clearwater Jazz Holiday or to enjoy the spring at our Fun 'N Sun Festival or to experience Kid's Week showcasing family activities or to participate in the Florida Birding Festival or to watch the pros at the various beach volleyball tournaments. Our sunsets are so incredible they have inspired local artists and performers to celebrate the setting of the sun into the Gulf of Mexico. Sunsets at Pier 60 features music, street performers and hand crafted arts and crafts sold by artists themselves; it's not to be missed.