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

Should you visit Clearwater or Norfolk?

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 Norfolk. 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Clearwater and Norfolk: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Norfolk?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Clearwater than Norfolk. While Norfolk is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Clearwater is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Clearwater different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater
Norfolk

Clearwater is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.


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

Clearwater
Norfolk

Clearwater is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Clearwater or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Norfolk

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Norfolk.

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 Norfolk. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Clearwater or Norfolk Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Norfolk

Clearwater is a great destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

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.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Norfolk Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Norfolk

Clearwater is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Norfolk Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Norfolk

Clearwater is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Clearwater. 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.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Norfolk?

Clearwater
Norfolk

Both Clearwater and Norfolk 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 Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.


Is Clearwater or Norfolk Better for Families?

Clearwater
Norfolk

Clearwater is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Clearwater or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Norfolk

Clearwater is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Clearwater frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

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

Clearwater
Norfolk

Both Clearwater and Norfolk offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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 mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.


Is Clearwater or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Norfolk

Clearwater and Norfolk both are good when exploring on foot.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Clearwater or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Clearwater than Norfolk 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 Norfolk.

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Norfolk 1-2

One day in Clearwater or Norfolk?

In Clearwater, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Clearwater or Norfolk?

In Clearwater, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Clearwater has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Clearwater. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Norfolk 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Norfolk 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 Norfolk is $166. 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 Norfolk in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Norfolk $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Norfolk $168
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Norfolk

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Norfolk? 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 Norfolk


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 Norfolk Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Norfolk $54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • St Petersburg to Tampa Airport (TPA) -Departure Private Transfer: $88
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $102
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $64
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $128
  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Norfolk?

Prices for flights to both Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $140
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Norfolk $14

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

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

  • St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour: $14
  • Clearwater; Aspirations Winery Tour and Tasting Experience: $21
  • Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Two-hour Clearwater Area Trolley Sightseeing Tour: $28
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphin Cruise with Sandbar Tour: $28
  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in 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
  • St. Pete Beach Dolphin Racer Speedboat Adventure: $30

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $84
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $84
  • Mother's Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk: $103
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $103

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Norfolk $10

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Downtown Norfolk: $30


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

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Norfolk?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

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 Norfolk in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Norfolk. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Norfolk in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Norfolk fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk 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 Norfolk during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

Norfolk 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 Norfolk. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Norfolk in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Norfolk. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Norfolk in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Clearwater is a little warmer than Norfolk. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Norfolk averages at about 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Norfolk. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Norfolk. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Norfolk in the Winter?

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

Norfolk can be very cold during winter. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Norfolk in the Spring?

Both Norfolk and Clearwater during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months.

Clearwater is much warmer than Norfolk in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Norfolk fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the spring, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Norfolk. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Norfolk. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Clearwater

Clearwater Norfolk
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)