A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Everglades National Park for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Everglades National Park?

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 Everglades National Park. 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 adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a wild, pristine, and adventure-filled national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking.

Clearwater and Everglades National Park: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Everglades National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Clearwater than Everglades National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Clearwater is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Everglades National Park is more popular for its hiking 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. Everglades National Park is well known for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees.

How is Clearwater different from Everglades National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its historical sights. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Clearwater specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Everglades National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.


Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Everglades National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Clearwater has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Everglades National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is very good for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Clearwater has a few options to choose from. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.

Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Clearwater. 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.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Clearwater. 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.

Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Clearwater is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park Better for Hiking?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Everglades National Park is a popular spot for hiking. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Everglades National Park?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is very good for its shopping areas. However, Everglades National Park is not known for shopping.

Clearwater has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Everglades National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.

Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park Better for Families?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Clearwater. 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.

Everglades National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is a great coastal city for couples. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Clearwater is a great coastal city if you're traveling as 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.

Everglades National Park is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.


Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Everglades National Park. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

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 Everglades National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.

Is Clearwater or Everglades National Park a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Everglades National Park

Clearwater is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its walkability.

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

Everglades National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.


For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Everglades National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Everglades National Park or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Everglades National Park?

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

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Everglades National Park. 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 Everglades National Park. 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 Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Everglades National Park 2-3

One day in Clearwater or Everglades National Park?

With nightlife and food around the relaxing coastal city of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With around the natural national park of Everglades National Park, 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 Everglades National Park?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing destination of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With around the destination of Everglades National Park, 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 national park.

Five days in Clearwater or Everglades National Park?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful coastal city of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Everglades National Park, a popular national park, 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 Everglades National Park?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Everglades National Park 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, Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park is $146. 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 Everglades National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Everglades National Park $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Everglades National Park $160
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Everglades National Park

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Everglades National Park? 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 Everglades National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Everglades National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $127
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • Private Airport Transfer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater Beach : $104
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $102
  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Everglades National Park?

Prices for flights to both Everglades National Park 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
    Everglades National Park $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Everglades National Park $28

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

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

  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • 1.5 Hour Tiki Tour with Open Bar in Clearwater Beach: $49
  • 2 Hour Guided Kayak Tour in Boca Ciega Bay - St. Pete: $55
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour of Downtown St Pete: $59
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $54
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg: $67
  • 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry: $67
  • 90 Minute Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Clearwater at Hatchet Hangout: $50
  • All Day Fishing Experience from John's Pass in Madeira Beach, FL - 10 Hours: $160
  • Amazing Helicopter Tour of Treasure Island, John's Pass, Don CeSar Resort & Bay: $126
  • Brief History of Tarpon Springs - Guided Golf Cart Tour: $45

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $48
  • 2 Hour Chokoloskee Island Kayak Tour: $80
  • Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour (2 hours): $120
  • Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour: $120
  • 4 Hour Everglades Kayak Tour: $120
  • Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour in Everglades National Park: $200
  • Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour: $200
  • Everglades National Park Small Group Guided Boating & Walking Tour Expedition: $200
  • 6 Hour Everglades Mangroves Kayak Tour: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Everglades National Park $7.86

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 Everglades National Park, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Everglades National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Everglades National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Everglades National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Everglades National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Everglades National Park. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Everglades National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Everglades National Park. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Everglades National Park receives 316 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Everglades National Park. Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Everglades National Park. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Everglades National Park receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Everglades National Park 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Everglades National Park in the Autumn?

Both Everglades National Park and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Everglades National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Everglades National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Everglades National Park fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Everglades National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Everglades National Park during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Everglades National Park receives 275 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Everglades National Park. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Everglades National Park receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November. The hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Everglades National Park 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Everglades National Park in the Winter?

Both Everglades National Park and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Clearwater is cooler than Everglades National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Everglades National Park averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Everglades National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Everglades National Park. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Everglades National Park receives 243 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Everglades National Park. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Everglades National Park receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Everglades National Park 67°F (19°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Everglades National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Everglades National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Everglades National Park this time of year.

In April, Clearwater is generally around the same temperature as Everglades National Park. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Everglades National Park fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Everglades National Park this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Everglades National Park during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Everglades National Park receives 300 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Everglades National Park. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Everglades National Park receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater. June to November is the hurricane season in Everglades National Park.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Everglades National Park 74°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Everglades National Park and Clearwater

Clearwater Everglades National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)