Why North Clearwater Beach Is a Hidden Gem

Past the second roundabout on Clearwater Beach, you enter a quiet, mostly residential pocket with limited short-term rentals. Homes here feel like home: many offer 2 – 4 bedrooms, private pools, garages, and large yards, close to Mandalay Ave and the beach, yet away from the busiest blocks. It’s the sweet spot for families, couples, and small groups who want space, privacy, and value.

What to Do Beyond the Beach

Courts and Playgrounds near Mandalay & Heilwood

If you want a change of pace from the sand, head a few blocks inland for courts and play time.

• McKay Park: upgraded public pickleball courts (six, lighted) plus family amenities. City info: myClearwater page, hours and features.
  Parking details (public lot on Mandalay Ave).

• Mandalay Park: small green space on the north end with shade and easy beach access; good post-beach stop for families.

City overview of pickleball and tennis options across Clearwater is here (useful if you’re planning play around town).

Waterpark Day Trip for Families

Just a short drive away in Indian Rocks Beach, Splash Harbour Water Park is a go-to with slides, a lazy river, and splash areas, great for kids and mixed age groups. Check tickets, hours, and special rates: official site and ticketing page.

Where to Eat: Clearwater Beach Favorites

All within a short drive or bike of North Clearwater Beach:

• Island Way Grill: waterfront seafood, sushi, wood-fired steaks; menus and reservations.

• Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill: beachfront classic with live music and a huge menu; venue page and menu.

• Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar: a Clearwater institution facing the Gulf; site and menus.

• Clear Sky Beachside Cafe: all-day cafe, brunch favorite, often with live music; location and entertainment.

Why stay with us in North Clearwater Beach instead of a big hotel?

• Price: For about what you’d pay for a single hotel room, you can often rent a 3 – 4 bedroom home with a private pool, with no resort fees, valet, parking, or Wi-Fi charges.

• Privacy: No crowded hallways or elevators; just your own space in a quiet residential block.

• Space: A real living room, full kitchen, dining area, and yard so everyone can spread out.

If you want to be close to courts/playgrounds and the beach without the bottlenecks, this area is hard to beat.

Book Direct and Save

Beach Time Rentals offers a curated set of North Clearwater Beach homes from cozy 2 BR to 4BR pool homes close to the north beach entrances and neighborhood courts.

• Browse and book direct for the lowest rate and no platform fees: beachtimerentals.com

• Prefer help matching a home to your group and dates? Our local team can recommend the best fit near Mandalay or Heilwood.