TripAdvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards named Clearwater Beach the best beach in Florida.
Clearwater Beach is once again in the spotlight, winning the 2026 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” Awards as Florida’s best beach destination. Every year, visitors are enchanted by this stretch of powdery white sand and turquoise Gulf waters, with unspoiled shores, calm waves, and stunning sunsets.
It was voted the best beach in the U.S. and the 17th best in the world. It’s known for being clean, offering kid-friendly activities, and being a great place to relax. The famous yellow umbrellas on the beach capture the bright, appealing vibe that makes this beach a must-see paradise.
Staying at Edge Hotel Clearwater Beach puts you close to it all, and we’re excited to offer insider tips on why this hidden gem should be on your travel list. Our hotel is right on the beach, so you can enjoy the sights without walking far or dealing with traffic.
Why Clearwater Beach Got Praise in 2026
The TripAdvisor awards are based on millions of real traveler reviews, which show that Clearwater Beach has been high quality over the past year. It beat competitors across the country because of its wide, sugar-white sand (ST. PETE-CLEARWATER SELECTED AS A GOOD HOUSEKEEPING 2026 TRAVEL AWARDS WINNER AS ONE OF THE NATION’S TOP BEACH ESCAPES, 2025) that stays cool even in the hottest summer weather, making it perfect for making sandcastles and walking barefoot.
There are lifeguards on duty, and a few rip currents have been reported, so the calm, shallow waters are perfect for swimming. Recent awards go beyond the beach; local kayak tours also won top honors worldwide, showing how much the area cares about providing world-class experiences.
Clearwater has both energetic and peaceful spots. Mornings are for jogging and yoga; afternoons bring beach volleyball and parasailing. Sunset parties draw crowds to view the bright sky, best seen from the beach.
Families enjoy playgrounds and easy boardwalks, and couples love romantic pier walks. Its world-class ranking comes from these different experiences.
Your Beachfront Haven at the Edge Hotel
Edge Hotel Clearwater Beach is a luxury hotel in the center of this award-winning destination. Our property is right on the beach, and our glass-walled infinity pool is the only one on Clearwater Beach. Relax by the pool and enjoy beautiful views of the Gulf. Jump into one of our two sparkling pools, unwind on the 17,000-square-foot sundeck, or have a craft cocktail at our Tiki Bar while watching dolphins play in the water.
Our 155 large rooms and suites feature private balconies overlooking the Gulf or the Intracoastal Waterway. These are great places to have coffee in the morning or toast the sunset in the evening. Each one has comfortable bedding, smart TVs, mini-fridges, and fast Wi-Fi. Enjoy a free hot breakfast buffet to start your day, then head to the private beach, where chairs and umbrellas are already set up.
Our fitness center and free passes to the nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where Dolphin Tale was filmed, are popular with active guests. Our rooftop bar and grill, Jimmy’s on the Edge, serves fresh seafood, Florida craft beers, and stunning views. Many guests come back year after year because they love the great value, clean facilities, and attentive service.
The Edge Hotel is the best place to stay in Clearwater, whether you’re going on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a group retreat. (Edge Hotel Clearwater Beach, 2026)
Steps Away: Things to Do Beyond the Beach
Beyond the beach itself, Clearwater Beach offers activities for everyone, all within a short walk or trolley ride.
Pier 60 Sunset Celebration
Every day from 4 to 9 PM, the famous Pier 60 hosts the free Sunset Celebration. (Sunsets at Pier 60, 2026) There are street performers, artisans, live music, and fire dancers. It’s a busy place to buy souvenirs, fresh fudge, and cotton candy. You can get great sunset photos over the water for Instagram.
Dolphin Cruises and Water Adventures
Take a two-hour dolphin cruise from Clearwater Beach Marina to see playful pods, shell along barrier islands, and snorkel in clear shallows. There are plenty of activities for thrill-seekers, such as kayak tours, jet skis, and fishing charters.
Nearby Natural Attractions
Walk to Sand Key Park for quieter beaches, nature trails, and a fishing pier full of pelicans. Honeymoon Island State Park, a short drive away, has hiking, kayaking through mangroves, and unique birdwatching. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for hands-on exhibits and rescue stories.
Beach Activities
- Rent paddleboards
- Go parasailing up to 1,200 feet
- Take a yoga class on the beach
- Enjoy beach volleyball
- Relax during sunset views
Foodies will love the beachside restaurants that serve grouper sandwiches, fresh shrimp, and key lime pie.
Why Book with Us Right Now?
Clearwater Beach is hotter than ever, especially with the 2026 awards coming up. Don’t miss your chance—claim your piece of paradise before summer crowds arrive. Book now at Edge Hotel to enjoy early beach access, discounted sunset cruises, and exclusive event tickets. With our infinity pool and rooftop dining, your ultimate Florida stay awaits. Wake to the sound of waves, adventure all day, and fall asleep under the stars.
Reserve your stay at Edge Hotel Clearwater Beach today, TripAdvisor’s best hotel for 2026, and start making precious memories. Book now to guarantee your beachfront escape.
