St Pete Beach is better for families and Clearwater Beach is better for the partygoer. There are some bar owners is St Pete Beach that would disagree but this is my own opinion. I think most people who have been to a beach with a party atmosphere will agree, and both are awesome anyway and the best on the Florida Gulf Coast.
The best way to learn more about Clearwater Beach is to click that blue link above. There are so many bars and touristy places to visit and eat I cannot mention them all. Rest assured that the area has evolved to meet the wants and needs of the tourist who visit it. You will be both entertained and find time for relaxation and to soak in the natural beauty.
Why is the beach more popular to the party goers? Probably because it is so much closet to the Tampa International Airport and Downtown Tampa. Be cautious with your belongings, don't leave your alcoholic beverage unattended and be cordial. You will want to return as everyone will want you back to Florida's Gulf Coast.
Clearwater Beach and St Pete Beach are both in the Tampa Bay area. St Pete Beach is about 18 miles south of Clearwater Beach and takes 40 to 45 minutes to make the drive. We all speak of them like they are nearby but they are not close to one another. St Pete Beach is overlooking the Old Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. When you ask about St Pete Beach vs Clearwater Beach it isn't a fair comparison.