A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Tallahassee for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee. 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Clearwater and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Tallahassee?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Clearwater than Tallahassee. While Tallahassee is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is more touristy than Tallahassee and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

How is Clearwater different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Both Clearwater and Tallahassee have very good 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.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.


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

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Clearwater is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Clearwater has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Clearwater or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Evening events are notable in both Clearwater and Tallahassee.

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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Clearwater or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Clearwater is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Tallahassee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Clearwater is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Clearwater is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Tallahassee?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Both Clearwater and Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.


Is Clearwater or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Clearwater is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Clearwater. 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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Clearwater or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Clearwater is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Clearwater is a great coastal city if you're traveling as 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Clearwater or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

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 Tallahassee Better for Students?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

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

Many students visit Tallahassee. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Both Clearwater and Tallahassee offer respectable 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Is Clearwater or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Tallahassee

Clearwater is a coastal city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.


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

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Tallahassee?

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

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


  • How many days in Clearwater or Tallahassee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Tallahassee 1-2

One day in Clearwater or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy coastal city of Clearwater. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A weekend in Clearwater or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Clearwater. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the beautiful coastal city of Clearwater. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Clearwater. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Tallahassee 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.


Which place is cheaper, Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee is $156. 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 Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Tallahassee? 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 Tallahassee


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 Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Tallahassee $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • Pete–Clearwater Airport to Clearwater Beach Round-Trip Transfer: $146
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $129
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • Private Airport Transfer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater Beach : $105
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • Clearwater Beach to St.Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) -Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100
  • St Petersburg to Tampa Airport (TPA) -Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Clearwater Beach to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Clearwater

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

  • 2 Hours Beach Bites & Brews Food Tour in Gulfport, Florida: $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Tallahassee $12

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 of Downtown St Pete: $59
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hour Sunset Kayak Tour: War Veterans Memorial Park: $59
  • 2 Hour Tandem Kayak Tour (Price for 2 People): $110
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $49
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg: $67
  • 3-hour Food Tasting Walking Tour of Dunedin: $100
  • 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry: $67
  • 90 Minute Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Clearwater at Hatchet Hangout: $50

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $383
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $492

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Tallahassee $53

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $32


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

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Tallahassee. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Clearwater is generally around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Tallahassee. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

Both Tallahassee and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Tallahassee this time of year.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Tallahassee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Tallahassee during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 256 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November. The hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Tallahassee in the Winter?

Both Tallahassee and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Clearwater is a little warmer than Tallahassee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Tallahassee. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 185 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Tallahassee. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Tallahassee in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Tallahassee. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches.

In April, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 295 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Clearwater

Clearwater Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)