Clearwater Beach Rules & Information
No Alcohol
No alcohol is permitted on Clearwater's public beaches.
No Smoking
No Dogs, Cats or Other Animals
No animals are allowed on public bathing beaches. This means no pets, dogs or cats in the public bathing area of Clearwater Beach, with exception of service animals. The U.S. Department of Justice defines service animals as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. To view a map of where pets are allowed on Clearwater Beach, visit the "Pets on Clearwater Beach" page.
Always Swim Near a Lifeguard
Head the advice, instructions and warnings of lifeguards. Don't overestimate your swimming abilities, and never swim alone. Swim within the "Safe Bathing Limit" at all times. This area extends 300 feet west of the high water line and is clearly marked by buoys or pilings.
When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors
Weather can change quickly, causing conditions to deteriorate fast. Stay out of the water and stay off the beach when lighting is present.
Rip Current Safety
Break the grip of the rip. Don't fight the current. Escape the current by swimming in a direction following the shoreline. When free of the current, swim at an angle - away from the current - toward the shore. Wave for a lifeguard. Most importantly - don't panic.
Surfing, Paddleboarding, Windsurfing, Skimboarding
Surfboards, sailboats, motorboats, personal watercraft or singular hard-surfaced objects are not permitted to be beached on the public bathing beach area of Clearwater Beach. If you'd like to participate in any of these activities, they must be done outside the swim zone or on North Beach past Somerset Street.
Do the Stingray Shuffle
Stingrays are generally not aggressive fish, but they will defend themselves if they feel that they are threatened, such as being stepped on. To avoid stings, shuffle or slide your feet slowly through the sand to warn the stingrays of your presence, and they will move out of your way. Do the "stingray shuffle" from the time you get in the water until the time you get out. If you get stung, see a lifeguard or go to a nearby fire station for an assessment of your injury.
Beach Warning Flags
Flags posted on the beach and flying from lifeguard towers represent ocean hazards and surf conditions. Please remember that water conditions can change quickly. Check with the lifeguard on duty if you are unsure of safe conditions. Click here to find the most recently reported status of the beach.
Swim Sober
Alcohol is a major factor in drowning. Alcohol impairs swimming ability and good judgment. Alcohol is NOT allowed on Clearwater Beach.
Don't Float Where You Can't Swim
Often, non-swimmers dangerously use flotation devices to go offshore. If they fall off, they can quickly drown. The only exception is a person wearing a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
No Diving
Don't dive headfirst. Protect your neck. Diving headfirst into unknown water and striking the bottom can lead to serious, lifelong injuries, including paraplegia. Check for depth and obstructions before diving, and then go in feet first the first time. Use caution while body surfing, always extending a hand ahead of you.
Boating & Jet Skis Safety
Beach Wheelchairs are Available
The city provides manual and motorized beach wheelchairs for our visitors with special needs and who wish to access the beach. Find out more about beach wheelchairs.
Stay Hydrated and Wear Sunscreen
Florida sunshine is intense. Be careful when sunbathing and use sunscreen with a high SPF.
Metal Detectors
Metal detectors are allowed by permit-only.
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