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

Should you visit Clearwater or Cherokee?

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 Cherokee. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Clearwater and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Cherokee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Cherokee are both popular with visitors, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Cherokee is known for its hiking. Clearwater is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Clearwater different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater
Cherokee

Clearwater is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good 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.

Cherokee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.


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

Clearwater
Cherokee

Clearwater is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Clearwater or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Clearwater or Cherokee Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Clearwater is notable for its resorts. However, Cherokee 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.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Cherokee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cherokee 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.

Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Cherokee Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Clearwater is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Cherokee 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.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Cherokee is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Cherokee is a popular spot for hiking. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Cherokee?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Both Clearwater and Cherokee 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 Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Clearwater or Cherokee Better for Families?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Both Clearwater and Cherokee are great family-friendly destinations.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

Is Clearwater or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Clearwater and Cherokee both great destinations for a couple.

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.

Cherokee makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.


Is Clearwater or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Cherokee is a good destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

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 Cherokee Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Both Clearwater and Cherokee 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 Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

Is Clearwater or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Cherokee

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

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

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable coastal city. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.


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

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Clearwater or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Clearwater due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cherokee.

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


  • How many days in Clearwater or Cherokee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Cherokee 2-4

One day in Clearwater or Cherokee?

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 food around the cultural town of Cherokee, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Cherokee?

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 food and shopping around the destination of Cherokee, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Clearwater or Cherokee?

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.

Cherokee, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Cherokee?

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.

Cherokee 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.


Which place is cheaper, Cherokee or Clearwater?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $309, while the average daily cost in Cherokee is $174. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Clearwater and Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Cherokee? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Clearwater


Hotels in Cherokee


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Cherokee -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $63
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $102
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $127

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee and Clearwater change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Clearwater $46
    Cherokee $16

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Cherokee -

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Clearwater by Operation City Quest: $10
  • St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour: $14
  • Clearwater; Aspirations Winery Tour and Tasting Experience: $21
  • Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphins and Donuts Morning Cruise: $28
  • Shark Teeth and Shells, Dolphin and Shelling Tour Boat Clearwater Beach : $28
  • Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach: $28
  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphin and Sandbar Boat Cruise: $28
  • Sunset and Harbor Lights Cruise: $28
  • Tour with Dolphins and Sight Seeing: $29

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Cherokee -

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $20


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

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Cherokee?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Cherokee, 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 Cherokee?

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 Cherokee in the Summer?

Both Cherokee 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 Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Cherokee in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Cherokee fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Cherokee during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 294 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Cherokee. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cherokee in the Autumn?

Both Cherokee 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 Cherokee because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Clearwater is a little warmer than Cherokee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Cherokee averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Cherokee. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 213 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cherokee. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cherokee in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Cherokee in the winter. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Cherokee during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cherokee receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Cherokee. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cherokee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Cherokee. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Cherokee in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Cherokee fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the spring, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Cherokee. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 263 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Cherokee. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Clearwater

Clearwater Cherokee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)