A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Jacksonville for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Clearwater or Jacksonville?

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 Jacksonville. 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 beautiful, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a youthful, fun, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Clearwater and Jacksonville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Jacksonville?

You'll generally find more things to do in Jacksonville than Clearwater. Jacksonville is bigger than Clearwater, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Jacksonville is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Clearwater is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Clearwater is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. Also, Jacksonville is famous for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Clearwater different from Jacksonville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Clearwater and Jacksonville have excellent 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.

Jacksonville offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

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

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Jacksonville both to be excellent destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Jacksonville has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

Is Clearwater or Jacksonville Better for Nightlife?

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

Jacksonville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

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 Jacksonville Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. 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.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Jacksonville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jacksonville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Jacksonville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Jacksonville Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is renowned for the beach. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Jacksonville is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Jacksonville?

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

Jacksonville is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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 Jacksonville Better for Families?

Clearwater is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Clearwater or Jacksonville Better for Couples?

Clearwater is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Clearwater or Jacksonville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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 Jacksonville Better for Students?

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

Jacksonville is a good city to visit for students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

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

Jacksonville has a few public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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 Jacksonville a more walkable city?

Clearwater and Jacksonville both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Jacksonville is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Jacksonville or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Jacksonville?

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

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

One day in Clearwater or Jacksonville?

In Clearwater, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this adventure-filled coastal city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and nightlife around the youthful city of Jacksonville, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

A weekend in Clearwater or Jacksonville?

Clearwater is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Jacksonville, 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 city.

Five days in Clearwater or Jacksonville?

In Clearwater, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Jacksonville, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Jacksonville?

Clearwater is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Jacksonville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Jacksonville?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Jacksonville, 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 Jacksonville?

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 Jacksonville in the Summer?

Both Jacksonville and Clearwater during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year.

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

In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Jacksonville. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jacksonville receives 286 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Jacksonville. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Jacksonville in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Jacksonville. The shopping scene are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Jacksonville in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Jacksonville fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Jacksonville during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Jacksonville receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Jacksonville. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November. The hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Jacksonville in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Jacksonville. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Jacksonville in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Clearwater is a little warmer than Jacksonville. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Jacksonville averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the winter, Clearwater often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Jacksonville. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jacksonville receives 191 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Jacksonville. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Jacksonville in the Spring?

Both Jacksonville and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Jacksonville for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Clearwater is generally around the same temperature as Jacksonville. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Jacksonville fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Jacksonville during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Jacksonville receives 285 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Jacksonville. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 2.8 inches (72 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 Jacksonville.

Typical Weather for Jacksonville and Clearwater