Is Tampa or Clearwater closer to Orlando Florida?

Tampa is closer to Orlando then Clearwater beach or Clearwater FL. Clearwater Beach is the furthest west, then Clearwater FL and half way across the Courtney Campbell Causeway you reach the city of Tampa FL. The question is interesting because Clearwater Beach and Clearwater FL are technically inside of the area known as Tampa Bay, or simply Tampa to some.

Tampa Bay | Tampa FL

Orlando To Clearwater

From Orlando International Airport is 109 miles and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive according to Google Maps. The traffic is often atrocious in Orlando and the time of day can make a big difference. From Orlando to Clearwater FL takes about 2 hours and is just a couple of miles closer.

Orlando FL To Tampa FL

From Orlando International Airport to Downtown Tampa FL takes 1 hour and 24 minutes on a good day. As you can see if you are taking a Florida Vacation where you spend most of your time matters the most when choosing where to travel to. Downtown Orlando has plenty of hotels for those visiting primarily Walt Disney World, Universal Studios or Seaworld amusement parks.

If Clearwater Beach is where you are spending your time or Tampa then fly into Tampa International Airport. Clearwater airport is a possibility but my family always ends up flying into Tampa and we use it when traveling as well.

Petersburg Clearwater Station

In St Petersburg Clearwater Station for Amtrak is now closed. You will need to use the Tampa Union Station if traveling by train to Tampa. I recommend a rental company and a car ride from there because public transit takes 2 hours to reach Clearwater Beach and trust me, it is no amusement park ride.

Attractions In Clearwater Beach and Tampa

Who would go to Orlando if not for the theme parks it is famous for? Exactly, That is why Tampa is such a great option. Tampa has Busch Gardens, Zoo Tampa and a lot more for children. We have a real dolphin watching tour, the gulf coast and beautiful beaches as well. For those who need more Peppa Pig and Legoland are an hour to the east in Winter Haven FL.

For adults there is Honeymoon Island State Park, a deep sea fishing trip or a boat trip on a pirate ship. There is a great time to be had for children and adults alike. What are you waiting for? Make your plans for visiting Clearwater FL and pick you beachfront hotel.