We travel a fair amount with the kids---3 boys aged 14, 12 & 9---and there are usually a few "moments" we could do without--but Clearwater Beach had all the right elements to avoid boredom and conflicts.
Quick Tips:
Three highlights:
1. You MUST go on the Little Toot dolphin watching cruise. I've been on these cruises before & usually you see a few fins at some distance. The draft of this boat causes the dolphins to race along with it in packs & leap out of the water as if they are trained. Even my 14 year old said "That was cool!"
2. The market & bands at the pier (2 hours before to 2 hours after sunset) were fun. The glassblower will custom make items for you--at about 25% of what a similar item would cost elsewhere. My boys gave him a Magic Game card & he made custom items for them.
3. If you go in Feb., during the week, Busch Gardens is empty--we literally got off rides, went back in line & caught the next ride with no wait.Best Way To Get Around:
You need a car to get there--the trolley will get you around on the island but the schedule is not reliable. And watch out on the traffic circle---you're taking your life in your hands every time.