A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Gainesville for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Clearwater or Gainesville?

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 Gainesville. 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.

Gainesville

Gainesville is a active, vibrant, and high energy city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Clearwater and Gainesville: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Gainesville?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Gainesville are both popular with visitors, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Gainesville is known for its nightlife. Clearwater is more touristy than Gainesville and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Gainesville is popular for being the home of the University of Florida

How is Clearwater different from Gainesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater
Gainesville

Both Clearwater and Gainesville 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.

Gainesville offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a surprising number of museums around town such as the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Also fascinating is the Historic Haile Homestead, the Butterfly Rainforest, and the city's planetarium.


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

Clearwater
Gainesville

Clearwater is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Gainesville has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Casual eateries are popular around town, particularly with the student population. There are grills, diners, and bistros that serve local dishes at affordable prices.

Is Clearwater or Gainesville Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Gainesville

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

Gainesville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife centers around the student population. The two main party areas are Midtown and Downtown. Midtown is between Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 18th Street and it's convenient for students who live on campus. The area has a great stretch of bars and clubs. The Downtown area has many of the city's top clubs, and it's popular with upperclassmen and students who live off campus.

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 Gainesville Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Gainesville

Clearwater is notable for its resorts. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Gainesville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Gainesville

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

Gainesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Gainesville Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Gainesville

Clearwater is very popular for its beaches. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Gainesville?

Clearwater
Gainesville

Both Clearwater and Gainesville 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 Gainesville. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town such as malls, shopping centers, and retail outlets. Two popular areas are the Neighborhoods at Butler and Celebration Pointe.


Is Clearwater or Gainesville Better for Families?

Clearwater
Gainesville

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

Gainesville is a family-friendly coastal city. You'll find outdoor activities, nature parks, and a couple of museums that will appeal to all ages. Highlights for families include A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, the Adventure Outpost, and Alfred A. Ring Park.

Is Clearwater or Gainesville Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Gainesville

Clearwater is notable for romance. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Gainesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wine tasting and fine dining or enjoying the city's many outdoor activities. Go on a picnic or explore one of the museums in Downtown Gainesville.

Is Clearwater or Gainesville Better for Students?

Clearwater
Gainesville

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

Many students visit Gainesville. As the location of the University of Florida, you'll find many students around town. This keeps the energy high with plenty of evening activities and affordable entertainment options.

Clearwater is not popular with students.


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

Clearwater
Gainesville

Gainesville is a good destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

Gainesville has a few public transit options. There's a decent bus system that's free to students and employees of the university.

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 Gainesville a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Gainesville

Clearwater and Gainesville both are good when exploring on foot.

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

Gainesville is a somewhat walkable place. Biking is actually a popular way to get around town and some areas are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Gainesville or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Gainesville?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Clearwater or Gainesville to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Clearwater than Gainesville because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 1-2 days is enough time in Gainesville.

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


  • How many days in Clearwater or Gainesville? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Gainesville 1-2

One day in Clearwater or Gainesville?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy coastal city of Clearwater. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With museums and nightlife around the active city of Gainesville, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Gainesville, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Clearwater or Gainesville?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Clearwater. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxing coastal city of Clearwater. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Gainesville, 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 Gainesville?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Clearwater. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Gainesville 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.


Which place is cheaper, Gainesville 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 Gainesville is $221. 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 Gainesville in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Gainesville $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Gainesville $238
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Gainesville

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Gainesville? 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 Gainesville


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 Gainesville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Gainesville $40

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: $64
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $64
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • St Petersburg to Tampa Airport (TPA) -Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Clearwater Beach to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • Clearwater Beach to St.Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) -Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • Private Airport Transfer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater Beach : $105
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $129
  • Pete–Clearwater Airport to Clearwater Beach Round-Trip Transfer: $146

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Gainesville?

Prices for flights to both Gainesville 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
    Gainesville $70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Clearwater

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Clearwater.

  • 2 Hours Beach Bites & Brews Food Tour in Gulfport, Florida: $69

Typical Food Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of dining costs in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $17
  • Lunch at Chop Stix (for 2)
    $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Gainesville $44

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
  • The Coastal Sip 'n Roll: Jolley Trolley Beer Adventure: $25
  • Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Two-hour Clearwater Area Trolley Sightseeing Tour: $28
  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach: $28
  • Shark Teeth and Shells, Dolphin and Shelling Tour Boat Clearwater Beach : $28
  • Clearwater Sunset Celebration Cruise: $29
  • Tour with Dolphins and Sight Seeing: $29
  • Dolphin Quest - Sightseeing/Eco Cruise, John's Pass, Madeira Beach, FL : $29

Typical Entertainment Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Manatee Tour for Two
    $98
  • Tour Guide Tip
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Gainesville

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Gainesville by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Natural History Ticket: $15
  • Private Snorkeling Tour in Florida Springs: $250

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Gainesville $49

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $32


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

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Gainesville?

Gainesville has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Gainesville, 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 Gainesville?

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 Gainesville in the Summer?

Both Gainesville 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 Gainesville for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gainesville. It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Gainesville. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Gainesville receives 6.8 inches (174 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Clearwater or Gainesville in the Autumn?

Both Gainesville 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 Gainesville because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Clearwater is around the same temperature as Gainesville. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Gainesville averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Clearwater usually gets more rain in October than Gainesville. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Gainesville receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in Gainesville is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Gainesville 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Gainesville in the Winter?

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

In January, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Gainesville. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Gainesville fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Gainesville. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Gainesville receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Gainesville 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Gainesville in the Spring?

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

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Gainesville in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Gainesville fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Clearwater usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Gainesville. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Gainesville receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Gainesville.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Gainesville 69°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Gainesville and Clearwater

Clearwater Gainesville
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 57°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.8 inches (174 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.8 inches (174 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.5 inches (139 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)