Clearwater Airpark (CLW)
Clearwater Airpark (CLW) is a public-use general aviation airport located about 4 miles northeast of downtown Clearwater, Florida. The airport serves private pilots, business aviation, flight training, and recreational flying, and it is a convenient alternative to the region’s larger commercial airports for travelers arriving by private aircraft.
Its location makes it easy to reach Clearwater Beach, downtown Clearwater, and other popular Pinellas County attractions. Because Clearwater Airpark is a general aviation facility rather than a commercial airline airport, services are more limited than at major terminals, but pilots and passengers can still find practical on-airport support and quick access to the Gulf Coast.
Airport Facilities and Services
1. General Aviation Services: Clearwater Airpark primarily supports general aviation activity, including private aircraft, business aviation, instructional flying, and visiting pilots.
- FBO and tenant services: Fueling, tie-downs, hangar access, maintenance support, and passenger amenities may be available through on-airport operators or tenants. Specific services and hours can vary, so it is best to confirm arrangements in advance.
- Flight training: The airpark is associated with local flight training activity, making it a practical field for student pilots and recurrent training in the Clearwater area.
2. Runway and airfield: Clearwater Airpark has a single asphalt runway, Runway 16/34, measuring about 4,108 feet. It is suited to many general aviation aircraft, though pilots should always review current airport data, weight limits, and operating conditions before arrival.
- Aircraft support: Routine maintenance and servicing options may be available on the field or through nearby aviation providers, depending on current operators.
- Pilot amenities: Pilot lounges, Wi-Fi, and flight-planning resources may be available through airport tenants or service providers. Availability can change by operator and time of day.
3. Aviation community:
- Flying clubs and instruction: Clearwater Airpark has long been associated with local flying activity. Club access, aircraft rental, and instruction opportunities may be available through current airport tenants or area flight providers.
Transportation and Connectivity
1. Ground transportation: Visitors arriving at Clearwater Airpark can reach the surrounding area quickly, but services are typically more limited than at large commercial airports.
- Rental cars: Rental cars may be available nearby in Clearwater, and advance arrangements are recommended if you plan to pick up a vehicle after landing.
- Taxis and rideshares: Uber, Lyft, local taxi service, and pre-arranged pickups are usually the easiest ways to travel between the airpark, hotels, beaches, and downtown areas.
2. Parking: Visitor parking may be available on-site, but policies for overnight or extended parking can vary. If you plan to leave a vehicle at the airport, confirm current arrangements directly with the airport or your service provider.
Things to Do Nearby for Visitors
Clearwater is one of Florida’s best-known Gulf Coast destinations, with beaches, marine attractions, parks, and a walkable downtown. From Clearwater Airpark, visitors can quickly reach many of the area’s most popular experiences.
1. Clearwater Beach: About a 15- to 20-minute drive from the airport, Clearwater Beach is famous for its soft white sand and calm Gulf waters. It is a favorite for swimming, beach walks, boat tours, parasailing, and sunset watching. Pier 60 remains a popular focal point for beachgoers and evening entertainment.
2. Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Located nearby, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is known for marine animal rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation work. It is especially well known for its connection to Winter, the rescued dolphin featured in the Dolphin Tale films. Visitors can learn more about rescued dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and ongoing marine care efforts.
3. Downtown Clearwater: A short drive from the airpark, Downtown Clearwater offers dining, events, and waterfront areas near the Cleveland Street District. Visitors can browse local shops, enjoy seasonal events, and catch performances at the historic Capitol Theatre.
4. Honeymoon Island State Park: Located roughly 30 minutes away, Honeymoon Island State Park is a favorite for beaches, nature trails, birdwatching, and kayaking. It is an excellent choice for visitors who want a more natural coastal setting.
5. Caladesi Island State Park: Accessible by ferry from Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island State Park is known for its unspoiled shoreline, mangrove kayaking routes, and quieter beach atmosphere. Ferry schedules and availability can vary by season and weather.
6. Moccasin Lake Nature Park: For a more relaxed outing, Moccasin Lake Nature Park offers walking trails, native habitats, and wildlife-focused exhibits close to the airport.
7. Sand Key Park: About 15 to 20 minutes from Clearwater Airpark, Sand Key Park is a quieter alternative to Clearwater Beach, with picnic areas, beach access, and scenic Gulf views.
8. Clearwater Ferry: For a scenic local connection, visitors can use the Clearwater Ferry, which links downtown Clearwater with Clearwater Beach, Dunedin, and other nearby destinations. Routes, stops, and schedules may change.
Vicinity of Clearwater Airpark
Nearby Dining and Shopping
1. Dining options: Clearwater has everything from casual beach bars to waterfront seafood restaurants and downtown dining spots.
- Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill: Located on Clearwater Beach, Frenchy’s is a longtime local favorite known for seafood, grouper sandwiches, and a lively beachfront setting.
- Clear Sky Café: Near the beach, Clear Sky Café is a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with a broad menu that appeals to a variety of tastes.
2. Shopping: Visitors can choose from beach boutiques, downtown shops, and larger retail centers across Clearwater.
- Countryside Mall: About 15 minutes from the airpark, Countryside Mall offers a mix of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Individual tenants and offerings may change over time.
Important Links (Suggest / Report)
- Clearwater Airpark Official Website
www.clearwaterairpark.com
Check current airport information, pilot resources, contacts, and local airpark details. - Official Tourism Information for Clearwater and St. Pete-Clearwater
www.visitstpeteclearwater.com
Explore attractions, beaches, events, and trip-planning information for Clearwater and the surrounding Gulf Coast.
Additional Details
- Location: 1000 N Hercules Ave, Clearwater, FL 33765.
- Airport type: Public-use general aviation airport; scheduled commercial airline service is not the airport’s primary role.
- Public transportation: Public transit options are limited directly at the airpark. Rideshare, taxi, or a pre-arranged pickup is usually the simplest option for visitors.
- Parking: On-site parking availability and overnight vehicle policies may vary. Verify current rules if you plan to leave a car at the airport.
- Accessibility: As a smaller general aviation airport, accessibility features and passenger assistance may be more limited than at major commercial terminals. Contact the airport or your on-airport service provider ahead of time for current accommodations.
