Clearwater Airpark (CLW)
Clearwater Airpark (CLW) is a public-use general aviation airport located just 4 miles northeast of downtown Clearwater, Florida. As a small, well-maintained airport, Clearwater Airpark serves as a hub for general aviation pilots, flight training, and recreational flyers. Situated near the famous Gulf Coast beaches, the airpark provides easy access to Clearwater’s attractions, including its beautiful white-sand beaches, bustling downtown, and vibrant cultural scene. CLW is a favorite for pilots looking for a convenient and less congested alternative to larger airports in the region.
The airport offers essential amenities for general aviation travelers and is well-known for its friendly atmosphere and efficient services. With its proximity to Clearwater Beach and surrounding attractions, Clearwater Airpark is an ideal gateway for visitors looking to explore Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Terminals and Services
1. General Aviation Services: Clearwater Airpark primarily serves general aviation, offering services for private pilots, corporate jets, flight schools, and recreational flyers.
- Fixed-Base Operator (FBO): The airport’s FBO provides essential services such as fueling, hangar space, tie-downs, and aircraft maintenance. The FBO ensures that pilots and passengers enjoy a hassle-free experience, with access to Wi-Fi, flight planning resources, and comfortable lounges.
- Flight Training: Clearwater Airpark is home to flight schools that offer pilot training programs for beginners and advanced students. The open airspace and sunny weather make Clearwater an ideal location for flight instruction.
2. Facilities and Runway: Clearwater Airpark features a single asphalt runway, Runway 16/34, which is 4,108 feet long. This runway accommodates a wide variety of general aviation aircraft, including small planes and light corporate jets.
- Aircraft Maintenance: On-site maintenance services are available for routine inspections, repairs, and aircraft servicing, ensuring that aircraft remain in top condition.
- Pilot Lounge: The airpark offers a pilot lounge where aviators can relax, access Wi-Fi, and plan their next flight. The lounge provides a comfortable environment for pilots to take a break before or after flying.
3. Amenities
- Clearwater Flying Club: The Clearwater Flying Club offers membership options for local and visiting pilots. The club provides access to aircraft rentals, flight instruction, and social events, creating a close-knit aviation community at the airpark.
Transportation and Connectivity
1. Ground Transportation: Visitors arriving at Clearwater Airpark have several transportation options for getting around the local area.
- Rental Cars: On-site rental car services are available through major companies like Enterprise, allowing visitors to easily explore Clearwater and the surrounding region.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are available at the airport, providing convenient transportation to local hotels, restaurants, and nearby attractions.
2. Parking: Clearwater Airpark offers free parking for short-term and long-term visitors, with parking conveniently located near the terminal and FBO facilities.
Things to Do Nearby for Visitors
Clearwater is a world-famous vacation destination known for its beaches, family-friendly attractions, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re in town for a beach getaway, a nature-filled excursion, or a cultural adventure, Clearwater Airpark puts you just minutes away from the best the Gulf Coast has to offer.
1. Clearwater Beach: Just a 15-minute drive from the airport, Clearwater Beach is one of the top-rated beaches in the U.S. Known for its soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters, Clearwater Beach is a perfect destination for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can rent jet skis, go parasailing, or take a boat tour to see dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico. Pier 60 is a popular spot for sunset celebrations, featuring street performers, local artisans, and live entertainment.
2. Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Located about 10 minutes from the airpark, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to rescued marine animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, and otters. The aquarium gained international fame as the home of Winter, the dolphin who starred in the movie Dolphin Tale. Visitors can learn about marine conservation, interact with animals, and even take behind-the-scenes tours of the aquarium’s rehabilitation facilities.
3. Downtown Clearwater: A short drive from the airpark, Downtown Clearwater offers a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Visitors can explore Cleveland Street District, which features boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The area also hosts events such as festivals, live music performances, and art shows throughout the year. The Capitol Theatre, a historic venue in downtown Clearwater, is a great place to catch live concerts and performances.
4. Honeymoon Island State Park: Located about 30 minutes from the airpark, Honeymoon Island State Park offers a pristine natural environment with miles of sandy beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for birdwatching. Visitors can swim, fish, or rent kayaks to explore the calm waters of the Gulf. The park is also a popular spot for shelling and wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of osprey and other coastal birds.
5. Caladesi Island State Park: Accessible by ferry from Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island State Park is a secluded, natural paradise. Known for its untouched beaches, the park offers hiking trails, kayaking through mangroves, and serene picnic spots. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful day in nature, away from the more crowded beaches.
6. Moccasin Lake Nature Park: For nature lovers, Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a hidden gem located about 10 minutes from Clearwater Airpark. The park features walking trails through natural habitats, a butterfly garden, and a bird of prey sanctuary. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy a picnic, and connect with Florida’s wildlife.
7. Sand Key Park: Just a 15-minute drive from Clearwater Airpark, Sand Key Park offers a quieter beach alternative to Clearwater Beach. The park features picnic areas, a playground, and nature trails, as well as a wide, sandy beach. It’s a favorite spot for locals who want to enjoy a peaceful day by the water.
8. Clearwater Ferry: For a unique way to explore the area, visitors can hop on the Clearwater Ferry, which connects downtown Clearwater with Clearwater Beach, Dunedin, and nearby attractions. The ferry offers scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway and is a fun, relaxing way to get around the area.
Vicinity of Clearwater Airpark
Nearby Dining and Shopping
1. Dining Options: Clearwater offers a wide variety of dining experiences, from casual beachfront cafes to upscale restaurants.
- Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill: Located on Clearwater Beach, Frenchy’s is a local institution known for its seafood dishes, including grouper sandwiches and crab fries. The laid-back atmosphere and beachfront location make it a favorite among visitors and locals alike.
- Clear Sky Café: Situated near the beach, Clear Sky Café offers a diverse menu featuring everything from fresh seafood to gourmet pizzas. It’s a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner after a day of exploring Clearwater.
2. Shopping: Visitors to Clearwater can enjoy a range of shopping experiences, from unique boutiques to larger shopping centers.
- Westfield Countryside Mall: Just 15 minutes from the airpark, Westfield Countryside Mall offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a movie theater and ice-skating rink.
Important Links (Suggest / Report)
- Clearwater Airpark Official Website
www.clearwaterairpark.com
Find real-time flight information, airport services, and general aviation resources. - Things to Do in Clearwater
www.visitclearwaterflorida.com
Explore attractions, events, and activities in Clearwater and the surrounding areas.
Additional Details
- Location: 1000 N Hercules Ave, Clearwater, FL 33765.
- Public Transportation: While public buses do not directly serve the airport, taxis, rideshares, and private shuttles are available to transport passengers to local hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
- Parking: Clearwater Airpark offers free parking for short-term and long-term visitors.
- Accessibility: Clearwater Airpark is fully accessible, offering services for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and accessible parking.
