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

Should you visit Clearwater or Portland?

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

Portland

Portland is a eclectic, tree-lined, and nature-filled city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and hiking.

Clearwater and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Portland?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Clearwater than Portland. While Portland is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is more popular for its museums & sights, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Portland is known for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Clearwater different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Clearwater is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Clearwater. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Portland.

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 Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a good destination for live music. However, Clearwater is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

In Clearwater, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a coastal city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is very popular for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

Clearwater is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Hiking?

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

Portland is a popular spot for hiking. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Portland?

Both Clearwater and Portland 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 Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Families?

Clearwater is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Couples?

Clearwater is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Clearwater or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

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

Portland is a good city to visit for students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

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

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

Portland 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.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Portland?

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

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

One day in Clearwater or Portland?

The coastal city of Clearwater offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic city of Portland, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Portland?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Portland?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Clearwater, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland, a popular city, 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 Portland?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Portland 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Clearwater during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Portland. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Portland. The autumn months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In the autumn, Clearwater is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Clearwater or Portland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Portland. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Portland. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Portland. Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Clearwater is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Portland during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Portland. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Typical Weather for Portland and Clearwater