Summer is almost here! Maybe you’ve been thinking about taking a family vacation to Clearwater Beach but have heard mixed reviews about the water conditions at Clearwater Beach. So is Clearwater Beach safe to swim? Here’s everything you need to know about the water conditions at Clearwater Beach before you pack up your beach towels!
Is Clearwater Beach safe to swim? Here’s why it is-
Is Clearwater Beach safe for swimming? 🏊🏻
Yes. Clearwater beach is 100% safe for swimming. In fact, it has a gradual slope, so it’s perfect for children. There is a sandy bottom so that you don’t have to worry about the rocks, which sometimes can be dangerous. The waters at Clearwater rarely have a strong current and there are lifeguards on duty during the day.
To add even more safety for the swimmers, there is a safe bathing limit that can be seen from the beach. It’s always advisable to stay within those limits to enjoy a day out on the beach.
Make sure to check out the flags🚩 often as conditions can change.
A green flag means there are no known hazards present.
A yellow flag indicates rough water
A red flag means danger
A blue or purple flag signals dangerous marine life has been spotted in the water
What is the water like at Clearwater Beach?
The water at Clearwater Beach is just as the name implies… clear! Located in the Gulf of Mexico, expect to have good visibility in clear blue water.
The water at Clearwater is shallow and gradually slopes down, making it easily swimmable. The current is not normally very strong making swimming conditions favorable. There are also usually no undertows and it is very easy to get in and out of the water.
Clearwater Beach is also famous for its powder-like, soft, white sand, adding to the clarity and swimmability of the water.
Is the water warm enough to swim in Clearwater Beach?
Yes. It maintains a constant 70+ degree Fahrenheit temperature year-round. The water temperature at Clearwater Beach ranges from about 73º F in the winter to 90º F in the summer. Beach users can swim year-round in the water if they would like. It’s considered one of the best beaches in the US because of its warm gulf waters.
What months of the year can you swim in Clearwater?
Anyone could swim in Clearwater waters year-round. But if you are looking for guaranteed warm water, the best months to go to Clearwater would be April, May, September, and October. The water temperature will be in the 80s and the overall temperature in Clearwater Beach will be bearable, making it the perfect beach weather.
Does Clearwater Beach have red tide?
Clearwater gets red tide from time to time. When it happens, the water has more bacteria than usual. Sometimes humans can develop symptoms such as breathing issues or digestive issues. Fortunately, red tide is temporary and does come so often. You can always check out this website to see if Clearwater has red tide or not.
Are there sharks or other dangerous creatures in the waters of Clearwater Beach?🦈
Yes, with it being an ocean, there are sharks in the Clearwater Beach area. However, attacks are very rare. You will, however, want to make sure that there aren’t a lot of jellyfish in the area. Jellyfish stings and it can ruin you and your family’s day at the beach.
For that reason, if you see purple flags at any of the beaches in Clearwater, you’ll want to stay out of the water, as it means there’s a large jellyfish population there. However, it is normally not a cause of concern until fall, when jellyfish spawn and a larger group are near the shore.
Is Clearwater Beach safe for families with kids?👨👩👧👦
Yes, it is. With the gentle waves, the gradual decline into the water, and dreamy sunsets, Clearwater Beach is the perfect place to bring the kids. Just remember to pack sunscreen and have water while having a fun day at one of Clearwater’s beaches! Now you don’t have to wonder “is clearwater beach swimmable?” because it is and it’s waiting for you and your family.
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Follow these 10 Safety Tips when swimming in Clearwater Beach 👈🏻
No Alcohol is permitted on all of Clearwater’s public beaches.
Swim within the “Safe Bathing Limit”- Marked clearly by buoys and pilings with an area extending 300 feet west of the high water line.
Boaters and Jet Skiers are not permitted inside “Safe Bathing Limit” Area
Florida’s sunshine can be a bit harsh, make sure you carry sunscreen while you are off for a sunbath.
Swim near a Lifeguard- Clearwater beach has lifeguards on duty 365 days of the year from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Towers line a one-mile stretch of shoreline between Clearwater Pass and Bay Esplanade.
Never Swim Alone- Always swim with a partner. At the very least, have someone onshore who can request assistance.
Don’t Fight the Current- Rip currents are strong currents of water that move away from the land. They are capable of sweeping even the strongest swimmer out to sea. If you get caught in a rip current, don’t try to swim directly to shore. Swim parallel to the shore until you feel the current ease, then return to land.
Swim Sober- Drowning is frequently caused by alcohol. Alcohol decreases both swimming ability and judgment.
Don’t Float in Places Where You Can’t Swim- Non-swimmers frequently utilize floatation devices to get offshore; if they slip off, they can drown rapidly. The sole exemption is if the individual is wearing a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Don’t Dive Headfirst, Protect Your Neck- Diving headfirst into unknown water and collapsing can result in significant, lasting disabilities, including paraplegia. Before diving, check for depth and impediments, and then enter feet first the first time. When bodysurfing, always stretch your hand ahead of you.
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