A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Beaver Creek. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Clearwater travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Clearwater and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Beaver Creek are both popular with visitors, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Beaver Creek is known for its skiing, theatre productions, and hiking. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Clearwater and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach.

How is Clearwater different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Beaver Creek and Clearwater. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Clearwater is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Clearwater is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Clearwater can be an interesting and educational experience. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good place to visit for theatre. However, Clearwater is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Clearwater is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Beaver Creek both to be great destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Beaver Creek has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.


Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Clearwater has a few options to choose from. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its luxury resorts. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Clearwater is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaver Creek is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Beaver Creek is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Clearwater is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Clearwater are among the best in the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Both Clearwater and Beaver Creek are good shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaver Creek. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.


Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Beaver Creek is very family-friendly. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Clearwater is very family-friendly. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Clearwater and Beaver Creek both great destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a good destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.


Is Clearwater or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Beaver Creek on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

Both Clearwater and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Clearwater. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

Families should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Clearwater. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Beaver Creek, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.


  • How many days in Clearwater or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

In Clearwater, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this adventure-filled coastal city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With shopping and skiing around the active town of Beaver Creek, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

Clearwater is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With skiing and food around the destination of Beaver Creek, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

In Clearwater, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

Clearwater is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Clearwater?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Clearwater Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Clearwater $343
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $343, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $378. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Clearwater and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Beaver Creek? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Clearwater


Hotels in Beaver Creek


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $70

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Clearwater change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Clearwater $79
    Beaver Creek $146

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Clearwater

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Clearwater.

  • Clearwater Beach Fun and Tropical Food Tour: $99
  • Clearwater Beach: Tropical Delights Walking Food Tour: $106
  • Taste of Downtown St Petersburg-A Walking/Food Tour: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Clearwater Beach Yoga Experience : $35
  • Safety Harbor Ghost & History Tour by Silent Slayer Ghost Tours: $40
  • !! Flippers Fun Boat !! Dolphin Adventure Clearwater Beach!: $32
  • 1,5h Tiki Tour with Unlimited Alcoholic Drinks, Clearwater Beach: $50
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour around Clearwater Beach: $79
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hour Tarpon Springs Sunset and Night Guided Kayak Tour: $49
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $54
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg: $67
  • 2.5 Hour Kayaking with Manatee and History Tour in Tarpon Springs: $68
  • 2.5 Hour Shell Key Island Adventure Including Dolphins And Shells: $59
  • 3 hour - Two Island Sandbar Tiki Adventure: $595

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • Saint Petersburg Bar Crawl: $15
  • St Petersburg Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience: $25
  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $25


When comparing the travel costs between Clearwater and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Clearwater Expensive? and Is Beaver Creek Expensive?.