Clearwater In Late March - Hurricane Damage & Dogs

Question

Hello!

We are considering Clearwater Beach for our spring break which is the weak of March 23rd. I know there was hurricane damage but I'm wondering how the beach and areas around north beach specifically are recovering? Is this a good option? My kids desperately want a beach/warm weather vacation lol.

Also, I'm considering bringing my dog. I'm reading that North Beach is okay for on leash. I just wanted to get a general sense of the dog friendliess (and tolerance) of the Clearwater area. We will of course abide by all leash rules and are dillegent about cleaning up and discipline when it comes to our buddy.

Thank you!

Jeff

Answer

Hi Jeff — great question. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how Clearwater Beach is doing post-hurricane (as of early- to mid-2025), especially around the north end, plus what to expect if you plan to bring your dog.

1. Recovery from Hurricane Damage

Clearwater has been working hard to recover. According to the city’s storm-recovery updates, the white-sand beach is open, parking lots are back, and lifeguards are patrolling.

The Florida Department of Health has resumed water quality testing, and current reports say the water is in good shape for swimming.

Some parts of the local infrastructure are still being repaired. For example, Pier 60 is partially open — up to the bait house — but the fishing pier section remains closed pending further structural assessment.

A March 2025 community newsletter noted that “most” of the beach’s restaurants, hotels, and businesses have reopened.

Bottom line: by late March you should find a very functional, visitor-ready Clearwater Beach experience. While not absolutely everything may be fully back, the core beach and many amenities are recovered.

2. Dog-Friendliness and Rules

Bringing your dog is possible, but with some important caveats:

Where dogs are allowed: Pets (non-service) are *not* allowed on the main public bathing beach south of Somerset Street. However, north of Somerset Street is a section where leashed dogs are permitted.
On-leash requirement: In the permitted area, dogs must remain on leash.
Clean-up: Like any responsible pet owner, you’ll need to pick up after your dog. Failure to do so may result in fines.
Service animals exception: Service animals are allowed in areas where other pets are not.

People who have visited note that the north beach is quieter and more residential, which may make for a more pleasant walk with your dog — but amenities are more limited there (for example, fewer restroom or shower facilities).

3. General Vibe and Suitability for a Family Trip

Given what’s open and what’s been recovered:

Yes, Clearwater Beach is a very good option for spring break. The beach is beautiful, largely restored, and welcoming again.
The water quality is good. Lifeguards are back, and the beach is safe for swimming.
Some beachfront restaurants may still be coming back online, so you may want to check specific spots before planning big meals out.
Your kids should be very happy — lots of beach time, plus the restored Pier 60 area (even if not fully reopened) makes for a pretty classic vacation feel.

4. Alternatives / Nearby Dog-Friendly Options

If you want more flexibility with your dog, or want a beach where they can run a bit more freely, here are some nearby alternatives:

Honeymoon Island State Park: Has a designated “dog beach” area; dogs must be on leash.
Other Pinellas County dog-friendly beaches: There are several dog-friendly spots within 20 miles of Clearwater Beach, per dog-beach guides.

5. Practical Tips for Bringing Your Dog

Arrive early to north beach: parking may be limited and the permitted dog area is more manageable in quieter times.
Bring supplies: poop bags, water for your dog, a leash, maybe a towel — facilities like restrooms might not be as close.
Double-check local rules before you go: While city rules are clear, signage may vary — and enforcement could change.
Plan beach vs off-beach time: Use the permitted north beach for walks, but consider taking your dog to other nearby dog-friendly parks or beaches when you want more freedom or amenities.

Conclusion

Overall — yes, Clearwater Beach in late March is a very viable and pretty appealing spring break destination, even given the recent hurricane damage. The recovery is well underway, the beach is open, and many core services are back. As for your dog, while you can’t bring them everywhere on Clearwater Beach, there *is* a designated, leashed area in the north section that seems to be tolerated and used by locals. If your family is okay with some compromises (like where your dog can go), it could absolutely work.

Clearwater In Late March - Hurricane Damage & Dogs

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