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Madeira or Clearwater Beach?

We have 2 young teens. Don’t mind some hustle & bustle, but would like to avoid huge crowds.

Both Madeira Beach and Clearwater Beach are fantastic options for a family vacation, especially with young teens, but they offer slightly different experiences in terms of atmosphere and crowd size. Here's a breakdown of each area to help you decide which might be the better fit for your family:

  • Madeira Beach: This beach is a great option if you're looking for a more laid-back vibe with some hustle and bustle, but without the massive crowds that can sometimes overwhelm Clearwater Beach. Madeira Beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and is less commercialized than Clearwater Beach, which makes it a bit more relaxed. The area around John's Pass Village is the most popular in Madeira Beach, where you'll find shops, restaurants, and activities, but it’s still relatively calm compared to Clearwater’s high-energy areas.
  • Clearwater Beach: Clearwater Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the area, offering plenty of activities, a long stretch of soft sand, and a bustling atmosphere. It’s great for families looking for a lot of things to do – like jet skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball. The area around Pier 60 is typically where the most crowds gather, especially during sunset when the daily festivities take place. Clearwater can feel a bit more touristy, but it has a great selection of restaurants, shops, and family-friendly attractions. If you don’t mind a little more hustle and bustle and are looking for a beach with lots of activities, Clearwater is a solid choice.

If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed environment with fewer crowds but still want access to restaurants and shops, Madeira Beach might be the better option for your family. On the other hand, if your teens enjoy a livelier atmosphere with more entertainment options and don’t mind a bit of a crowd, Clearwater Beach is a great choice. Keep in mind that both beaches are close enough to each other (just a short drive) that you can easily visit both, so if you're staying in one area, you can always take a trip to the other for a day trip.

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