Pier 60 | St Petersburg

Pier 60 is a popular and iconic landmark located at Clearwater Beach, Florida. This well-known pier stretches into the Gulf of Mexico and offers a variety of recreational activities, making it one of the top attractions in the Clearwater area. It is not only a prime spot for fishing but also serves as a venue for sunset celebrations, beach access, and family-friendly activities.

Overview of Pier 60

Pier 60 is a large, 1,080-foot long fishing pier that extends into the Gulf of Mexico. Originally built in 1926, the pier underwent significant renovations in the 1990s to modernize its facilities and make it more accessible to visitors. While the pier itself is a prime location for fishing, it also hosts a variety of events, attractions, and activities that attract both locals and tourists.

The pier is located in Pier 60 Park, which provides a broad array of amenities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and recreational facilities. Although the pier’s fishing area and bait house are currently closed for renovations, the park and nearby beach remain open to the public, offering plenty of things to do.

Fishing at Pier 60

Fishing is one of the main attractions at Pier 60. Although the bait house and fishing pier are undergoing renovations, the pier has historically been a great spot for catching a variety of fish such as snook, redfish, and pompano. Once fully operational, the fishing pier will offer visitors the chance to fish directly from the pier, with equipment rentals available for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Fishing Fees:

Walk-On Admission: $1

Rod Rentals: $10

Frozen Bait: $5

Fishing Fees:

Adults (16 and over): $10 per day

Seniors (65+): $8 per day

Children (15 and under): $7 per day

Weekly Pass:

Adults: $40

Seniors: $35

Children: $30

Monthly Pass:

Adults: $80

Seniors: $70

Yearly Pass:

Adults: $300

Seniors: $250

These rates apply to general fishing access on the pier, but the fishing pier itself is currently closed due to renovations, with the expectation that it will reopen after completion.

Sunsets at Pier 60

One of the most beloved aspects of Pier 60 is the Sunsets at Pier 60 event. This free, family-friendly event takes place every evening, starting two hours before sunset and lasting two hours after. During this time, the pier comes alive with a festive atmosphere, featuring:

Local Artisans: Vendors selling handcrafted items, jewelry, and other unique goods.

Street Performers: Musicians, jugglers, magicians, and other entertainers perform to the delight of the crowd.

Live Entertainment: Local bands or solo artists perform along the pier, contributing to a lively ambiance.

Visitors flock to the pier every evening to witness one of Florida’s most famous sunsets. The combination of live entertainment, local crafts, and the stunning Gulf Coast sunset makes the Sunsets at Pier 60 event a must-see for anyone visiting Clearwater Beach.

Amenities at Pier 60

The Pier 60 area is more than just a fishing pier—it is a recreational hub with a variety of amenities, many of which are geared toward families and children.

Playground: The park features a large, shaded playground that is perfect for children of all ages. The playground is equipped with swings, climbing structures, and other fun features, making it an ideal stop for families.

Concessions and Gift Shop: There is a small building near the pier offering snacks, drinks, sunscreen, beach essentials, and souvenirs. This is a convenient stop for visitors who want to grab a quick snack or purchase something to remember their visit.

Beach Chair and Umbrella Rentals: For those who prefer a more relaxed beach experience, Pier 60 offers beach chairs and umbrellas for rent. A typical set (two chairs and an umbrella) starts at around $30 for a full day.

Inflatable Slides and Bounce Houses: Located near the pier and playground, these inflatable attractions provide an exciting and safe place for kids to play and have fun. It's a popular feature for families visiting with young children.

Hours of Operation

Park Hours: The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, the beach access remains open 24 hours, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful coastline at any time. The park itself is closed from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM for maintenance and security reasons.

Sunsets at Pier 60: This event runs nightly from two hours before sunset until two hours after, so there’s no set start time; the event shifts with the time of year. The event typically includes arts and crafts vendors, street performers, and music, adding a festive vibe to the experience.

Location and Accessibility

Pier 60 is located at:

Address: 7 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767

The location is easy to find, situated along Clearwater Beach’s popular shoreline, with easy access to nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions. The park is wheelchair accessible and offers convenient beach access.

Nearby Attractions

Pier 60 is not just a destination on its own—it’s also close to many other attractions in Clearwater Beach, making it a great starting point for exploring the area.

Clearwater Beach: Just steps from the pier, the beach is perfect for lounging in the sun, playing beach volleyball, or enjoying water sports.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium: A short distance away, this aquarium is home to rescued marine animals, including the famous dolphin Winter. It offers educational exhibits and opportunities to interact with marine life.

Sand Key Park: Located just south of Pier 60, Sand Key Park is another beautiful beach area that provides a quieter, less crowded atmosphere for relaxation.

Conclusion

Pier 60 offers something for everyone: from stunning sunsets to live entertainment, fishing opportunities, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to spend a day fishing, enjoy a sunset celebration, or simply relax on the beach, Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach is a must-visit spot. It is one of the most iconic and visited locations in the Clearwater area, offering a perfect combination of natural beauty, entertainment, and recreation.