Dunedin or Clearwater

Question

Looking for a vacation spot that has a downtown area, pubs, shops, walkable. Is this Dunedin?

We want a mix of some beach time and going out to explore the area for future longer stays.

Any advice greatly appreciated. Or even another place similar in this general area is fine too.

thanks!!

Answer

Dunedin is a great choice if you're looking for a vacation spot with a walkable downtown area, pubs, shops, and a laid-back atmosphere. The town has a charming, small-town feel with a historic downtown area that's pedestrian-friendly. There are plenty of local shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars to explore, making it perfect for leisurely strolls. It’s a fantastic spot for visitors who enjoy exploring on foot and soaking in the local culture.

In terms of beaches, Dunedin is close to several excellent options. The town itself has access to Honeymoon Island State Park, which is just a short drive or ferry ride away, offering beautiful, uncrowded beaches. The nearby Caladesi Island State Park is another gem, known for its pristine beach and nature trails. While Dunedin's downtown is not directly on the beach, you can easily access several nearby beaches in just a short drive.

If you're considering Clearwater as another option, it offers a very different vibe. Clearwater Beach has a more bustling, touristy feel with larger hotels, a wider variety of restaurants, and lots of activities. The Clearwater Beach area is more centered around the beach, with the famous Pier 60, daily sunset celebrations, and a large variety of shops and restaurants. It’s walkable, but the beach itself can get crowded, especially during peak seasons.

For a similar alternative to Dunedin with a walkable downtown and beach access, you might want to consider the following areas:

Safety Harbor: A small, charming town located just across Tampa Bay from Dunedin. Safety Harbor has a historic downtown area with boutiques, cafes, and a relaxing vibe. The waterfront park is perfect for a stroll, and you can enjoy beautiful views of the bay.
Tarpon Springs: Known for its Greek heritage, this town has a lovely downtown area with shops, restaurants, and the famous Sponge Docks. It's a bit quieter than Clearwater Beach, with a mix of small-town charm and Greek influence.
Indian Rocks Beach: A quieter alternative to Clearwater Beach with a more residential feel but still plenty of dining options and shops. It's a great beach town with a small but walkable downtown area and beautiful beaches.

In summary, Dunedin is definitely a great choice for a walkable downtown with a relaxed, small-town vibe and easy access to nearby beaches. If you're looking for something with more action, Clearwater Beach offers more amenities and a livelier atmosphere. Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, and Indian Rocks Beach are also good alternatives with similar characteristics. All of these locations provide a nice mix of beach time and exploration.

Enjoy your vacation planning!