A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Austin for Food, Nightlife, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Clearwater or Austin?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Austin. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and relaxing coastal city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Clearwater travel costs.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's also a big city with many activities. Austin is a very beautiful destination, too. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping. See Austin travel costs.

Clearwater and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Austin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin than Clearwater, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Austin is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Clearwater is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Clearwater is more touristy than Austin and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Austin is popular for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also home to The Texas Capital.

How is Clearwater different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Austin and Clearwater. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Austin?

Both Clearwater and Austin have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Austin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Clearwater has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Austin just to party. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is a world-class destination for live music. However, Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Austin is a world class music destination. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is a great destination for its resorts. However, Austin is not a resort destination.

Clearwater is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Austin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Austin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Clearwater are among the best in the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Austin has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Austin?

Both Clearwater and Austin are good shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Clearwater or Austin More Beautiful?

Austin is a moderate city for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Austin is a very beautiful destination, too. The city has some nearby natural beauty as well as an eclectic style.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Families?

Clearwater is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Couples?

Clearwater is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Clearwater frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Students?

Austin is notable for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Many students visit Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

Is Clearwater or Austin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Clearwater and Austin offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Clearwater or Austin a more walkable city?

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Austin is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Austin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Austin or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Austin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Austin. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Austin. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Clearwater, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Austin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Clearwater that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Clearwater if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Austin.

One day in Clearwater or Austin?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Clearwater. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With live music and food around the unconventional city of Austin, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Austin?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food and shopping around the destination of Austin, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Clearwater or Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Austin, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Austin?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Clearwater. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Austin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Austin, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Austin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Austin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Austin and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater than you might in Austin.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Clearwater Expensive? and Is Austin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Austin, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Austin?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Austin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Austin. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Austin in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

Clearwater gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Austin. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Austin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Austin. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Austin because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Clearwater is around the same temperature as Austin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Austin averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Austin. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Austin. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In January, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Austin. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Austin during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Austin. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Austin in the Spring?

Both Austin and Clearwater during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Austin in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the spring, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Austin. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Typical Weather for Austin and Clearwater