A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Charleston for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Clearwater or Charleston?

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 Charleston. 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Clearwater and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Charleston?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Clearwater, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Clearwater is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Clearwater is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park.

How is Clearwater different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Clearwater can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

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

Charleston 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 Charleston, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

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 Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Clearwater and Charleston.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a good destination for live music. However, Clearwater is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its beaches.

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.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Charleston is revered around the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Charleston?

Charleston is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

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 Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Clearwater does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Clearwater does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a good destination for its Christmas markets. However, Clearwater does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Clearwater does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for Families?

Clearwater is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly coastal city. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its romantic activities.

Charleston is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Clearwater makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Clearwater or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a good destination for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Charleston is a good coastal town to visit for students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Both Clearwater and Charleston offer respectable 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 Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Clearwater or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is notable for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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 Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Charleston?

Both Clearwater and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Clearwater. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston 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 Charleston.

One day in Clearwater or Charleston?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled coastal city of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 quaint coastal town of Charleston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Charleston?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and shopping around the destination of Charleston, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Clearwater or Charleston?

Clearwater, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Charleston?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Charleston?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Charleston, 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 Charleston?

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 Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston 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 Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Clearwater is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Charleston during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Charleston. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Charleston in the Autumn?

Both Charleston 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 Charleston because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Charleston. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 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 Charleston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Charleston. The winter months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Charleston. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Charleston in the Spring?

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

In April, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the spring, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Charleston. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Clearwater