Day Trips from Clearwater
← All Clearwater day tripsDay Trips from Clearwater: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Clearwater, FL. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Clearwater
Scenic View - Tampa Bay
FL 34250, USA
Just 42 min from Clearwater, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
South Lido Lookout Bridge
2201 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota
Just 1 hr 28 min from Clearwater, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Trail 11 Scenic Overlook
Floral City, FL 34436
Just 1 hr 31 min from Clearwater, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Joanne's Lookout
Naples, FL 34120
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Clearwater, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Central Florida Scenic
Lakeland, FL 33805
Just 1 hr 8 min from Clearwater, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Observation Tower Trailhead
, St. Petersburg
Just 35 min from Clearwater, rated 4.9 stars by 190 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic view of The Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Terra Ceia, FL 34250
Just 43 min from Clearwater, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Viewing Platform
FL 32179, USA
Just 2 hrs 16 min from Clearwater, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
Apopka, FL 32703
Just 1 hr 57 min from Clearwater, rated 4.8 stars by 2,290 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead
Minneola, FL 34715
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Clearwater, rated 4.7 stars by 750 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sweetwater Overlook
FL 32641, USA
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Clearwater, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic View Windsurfing Launch
FL 33711, USA
Just 39 min from Clearwater, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Clearwater
What are the best scenic drives near Clearwater, FL?
The best scenic drives near Clearwater include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Clearwater?
Most scenic drives near Clearwater range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Clearwater?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Clearwater, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Clearwater?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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