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

Should you visit Clearwater or Nantucket?

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 Nantucket. 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Clearwater and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Clearwater and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Clearwater is known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Clearwater different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater
Nantucket

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


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

Clearwater
Nantucket

Nantucket 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 Nantucket, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Nantucket

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Nantucket.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Clearwater or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Nantucket

There are high quality resorts to choose from in both Clearwater and Nantucket.

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.

Nantucket is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.


Is Clearwater or Nantucket Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Nantucket

Clearwater is renowned for its beaches. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beache.

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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Is Clearwater or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Clearwater
Nantucket

Nantucket is notable for its historic old town. However, Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Clearwater does not have a historic old town.


Is Clearwater or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Clearwater
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Nantucket?

Clearwater
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

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 Nantucket Better for Families?

Clearwater
Nantucket

Both Clearwater and Nantucket 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, Nantucket is very family-friendly. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.


Is Clearwater or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Nantucket

Nantucket is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its romantic activities.

Nantucket is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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.

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

Clearwater
Nantucket

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

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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 Nantucket a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Nantucket

Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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 Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Clearwater or Nantucket. 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 Nantucket.

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

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


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

One day in Clearwater or Nantucket?

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Clearwater. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Nantucket?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled destination of Clearwater. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Clearwater or Nantucket?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing coastal city of Clearwater. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Nantucket, a popular island, 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 Nantucket?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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, Nantucket 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 Nantucket is $350. 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 Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Nantucket? 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 Nantucket


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 Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Nantucket $47

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
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $102
  • 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 Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Nantucket $34

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 around Clearwater Beach: $65
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Nantucket $35

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 comparing the travel costs between Clearwater and Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Nantucket?

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

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Nantucket. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nantucket in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Nantucket. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket 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 Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Clearwater is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Nantucket in the Winter?

Both Nantucket 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 Nantucket because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nantucket can be very cold. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Nantucket. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

Clearwater is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Clearwater

Clearwater Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)