Siesta Key vs. Clearwater Beach: Which Gulf Coast Beach Should You Choose?

Two of Florida's most famous beaches, about 90 minutes to two hours apart by car. How they compare on sand, crowds and things to do.

Siesta Key and Clearwater Beach often show up side by side in travel searches, and both regularly land on lists of the best beaches in the country.

Clearwater Beach, near Tampa, has a lively, resort-style feel, with high-rise hotels along the shore, Pier 60 and its nightly sunset celebration, and plenty of attractions. It is close to Tampa International Airport, which is handy for short trips.

Siesta Key is a little more laid-back. Its sand is the famous one: nearly pure quartz, powder soft and cool even in summer. Instead of high-rises, you will find vacation homes and a small, walkable village with nightly live music, plus Sarasota's museums, theaters and restaurants minutes away.

Choose Clearwater for big-resort energy close to Tampa. Choose Siesta Key for the softest sand and a home base with room to spread out.

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