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

Should you visit Clearwater or Berkeley?

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 Berkeley. 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 relaxing, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Clearwater and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Berkeley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Berkeley are about the same size, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Berkeley is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Clearwater is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Clearwater different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Berkeley 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 Berkeley?

Both Clearwater and Berkeley 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.

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Berkeley both to be great destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Berkeley has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Clearwater or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley is notable for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Berkeley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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 Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Berkeley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is renowned for the beach. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Berkeley?

Berkeley is notable for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. 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.

Is Clearwater or Berkeley Better for Families?

Clearwater is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Clearwater is known to be 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly coastal city. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Clearwater or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Clearwater is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Clearwater or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

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 Berkeley Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Is Clearwater or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Berkeley on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Berkeley?

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

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Berkeley. 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 Berkeley. 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley.

One day in Clearwater or Berkeley?

The coastal city of Clearwater offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the progressive city of Berkeley, 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 Berkeley?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Berkeley, 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 Berkeley?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Clearwater, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley, 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 Berkeley?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Berkeley 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Berkeley, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Berkeley much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Berkeley would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Berkeley 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 Berkeley.

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Berkeley?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Berkeley, 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 Berkeley?

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 Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Berkeley in the Autumn?

Both Berkeley and Clearwater during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Clearwater usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Should I visit Clearwater or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Berkeley. 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 Berkeley this time of year.

In the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Berkeley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Berkeley. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the natural beauty.

In April, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Clearwater usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Clearwater