A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Miami for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Clearwater or Miami?

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 Miami. 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 outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and relaxing coastal city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Miami

Miami is a high energy, glamorous, and exciting beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and beaches.

Clearwater and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Miami?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Miami than Clearwater, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Clearwater is known for its museums & sights and scuba diving & snorkeling. Miami is more touristy than Clearwater and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports.

How is Clearwater different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Miami, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Clearwater has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Is Clearwater or Miami Better for Nightlife?

Miami is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Miami just to party. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami Better for Music?

Miami is a world-class destination for live music. However, Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Is Clearwater or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers flock to Miami for its luxury resorts. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Clearwater is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Is Clearwater or Miami Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Miami 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.

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Miami Better for Beaches?

Clearwater and Miami both offer first-rate 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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Miami. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Miami?

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

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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 Miami Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Miami are high quality 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, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Clearwater or Miami Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Miami both high quality 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.

Miami makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Clearwater or Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

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 Miami Better for Students?

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

Miami is a good beach city to visit for students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

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

Miami has a few public transit options. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

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 Miami a more walkable city?

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

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Miami or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Miami?

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

Families should spend more time in Miami than Clearwater. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Miami, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Clearwater or Miami?

In Clearwater, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this adventure-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting Miami, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

When visiting Miami, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Clearwater or Miami?

Clearwater is a fun place to experience. In Clearwater, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Clearwater or Miami?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Clearwater. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Miami?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Miami, 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 Miami?

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 Miami in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Miami. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Miami in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Miami in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Miami fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Miami during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

Miami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Miami. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Miami in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Miami. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Clearwater is around the same temperature as Miami. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Miami averages at about 78°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Miami. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 275 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Miami. Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Miami. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Miami in the Winter?

Both Miami and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Miami because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Clearwater is generally cooler than Miami. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Miami fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Miami during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of rain as Miami. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Miami in the Spring?

Both Miami and Clearwater during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Miami this time of year.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Miami in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Miami fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the spring, Clearwater often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Miami. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 300 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Miami. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Typical Weather for Miami and Clearwater