A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Cape Cod for Beaches, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Clearwater or Cape Cod?

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 Cape Cod. 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Clearwater travel costs.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Cape Cod travel costs.

Clearwater and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Cape Cod?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Clearwater than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Clearwater is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Cape Cod is more popular for its hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Clearwater is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Clearwater different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Cape Cod?

Clearwater is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. 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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Cape Cod both to be excellent 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.

Cape Cod has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. 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.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Clearwater. 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.

Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its beaches.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod offers some nice hiking trails. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Cape Cod?

Cape Cod is notable for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. 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.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod More Beautiful?

Cape Cod is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Cape Cod are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cape Cod is very family-friendly. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Cape Cod both excellent 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.

Cape Cod makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

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

Both Clearwater and Cape Cod offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Clearwater or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Clearwater and Cape Cod both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Cape Cod?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Cape Cod. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Clearwater that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Cape Cod if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Clearwater.

One day in Clearwater or Cape Cod?

The coastal city of Clearwater offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Cape Cod?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Clearwater or Cape Cod?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Clearwater, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cape Cod, a popular beach destination, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Cape Cod?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Cape Cod, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Cape Cod much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cape Cod would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cape Cod and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater than you might in Cape Cod.

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

When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Cape Cod?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Cape Cod in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Cape Cod. The summer months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

In July, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Cape Cod. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Cape Cod. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Clearwater is much warmer than Cape Cod in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Cape Cod in the Winter?

Both Cape Cod and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Cape Cod can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Cape Cod. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Clearwater