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

Should you visit Clearwater or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 relaxing, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Clearwater and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Seattle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seattle than Clearwater. Seattle is bigger than Clearwater, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seattle is better known for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Clearwater is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Clearwater is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Clearwater different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Clearwater and Seattle have great 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.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for theatre. However, Clearwater is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Clearwater is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Seattle both to be great 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.

Seattle has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

Seattle has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is notable for live music. However, Clearwater is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is notable for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

Clearwater is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is renowned for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Clearwater are among the best in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Seattle?

Both Clearwater and Seattle are notable 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Families?

Clearwater is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Clearwater is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly coastal city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Couples?

Clearwater is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Clearwater or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young 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 Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is notable for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

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

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle 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.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Seattle?

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

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

One day in Clearwater or Seattle?

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 Seattle, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Seattle much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Seattle would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seattle 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 Seattle.

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Seattle?

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

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Seattle. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Clearwater during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Clearwater is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Should I visit Clearwater or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Seattle. The winter months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Seattle. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Seattle. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the spring, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Clearwater