Clearwater Beach Ranks 17th Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards

Clearwater Beach grabbed the 17th spot worldwide in the 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice "Best of the Best" Awards. It's the only Florida beach to make the list and one of just three American shores to crack the top rankings.

The Pinellas County spot came in second among U.S. beaches. La Jolla, California, took first. Hawaii had the only other American beach in the top 24. Get Up and Go Kayaking Tampa Bay claimed the top spot for nature and outdoor activities across the United States. The company also landed in second place worldwide in the same category.

"It's just absolutely mind-boggling that it keeps happening," said Amber Buzzi, per Fox 13 News. "I think the reason is, is because we've had the same guides for about five years, the same staff that are just consistently passionate."

Buzzi pointed out that this marks the company's fifth appearance on the U.S. list. Customers plan trips to take the tours. Some drive from Miami and other parts of the state just to paddle these waters. Mayor Bruce Rector said the rankings show traveler reviews submitted after recent hurricane damage. Visitors had good experiences soon after the storms hit.

"What really impresses us about the Tripadvisor rankings is that it's based on travel reviews," Rector said. "So, what that tells you is that folks, so soon after the hurricane, came back here and had a phenomenal experience, so great that they were able to rank us as one of the best in the world."

The awards represent the top 1% of platform listings. They're determined by traveler reviews and ratings. Several other Pinellas County locations also received awards.

Honeymoon Island State Park landed among the top 10 beaches in the country. Little Toot Dolphin Adventure in Clearwater ranked in the top five for sailing and day cruises nationwide. OCC Roadhouse took third place for pet-friendly restaurants in the United States. Caretta on the Gulf became the only Florida establishment to rank among the top 15 fine dining restaurants in the country.

The annual awards categorize accommodations, destinations, and activities across the globe. All rankings stem from traveler feedback.