Sand Key is separated by Clearwater Pass from Clearwater Beach and is connected to all the beaches by Gulf Boulevard. Looking to the east from our boat we see the beautiful white beach of Sand Key Park. Opened in 1984, the park occupies 95 acres and welcomes more than one million visitors each year to its wooded park, nature trails, salt marsh, picnic pavilions, playgrounds and, of course, a world class beach. Showers, restrooms and concessions are available. Lifeguards are on duty during the season. You will probably see the barriers placed on the beach to protect sea turtle nests, something you might see on many of our Gulf beaches. If you are traveling with Fido, the welcoming dog park will be a major plus. Parking is plentiful.
You may have already discovered Sand Key if you are staying at the Sheraton Sand Key Clearwater Beach Resort Hotel or the Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key. Tall condominium towers line the beach south of the park and hotels, offering plenty of rental possibilities for your vacation. A dining treat on Sand Key includes the Columbia Restaurant, a companion to the famous, century old Columbia Restaurant in Tampa. Featuring Cuban delights and the best Sangria anywhere, this restaurant will delight everyone.
