In this age of "dot-coms" and expanding incomes, the number of U.S. destinations offering the opportunity to commune with unspoiled nature is dwindling. And yet, such places are in great demand because the harder of all of work, the more we long for a little peace and quiet. Clearwater, Florida, offers a serene setting in which a surprising diversity of species lives and thrives, untouched by development. For those who have never witnessed the magnificence of a dolphin, sea turtle or manatee, or the fascination of catching brightly colored birds in their natural habitat, Clearwater offers those priceless opportunities and more.

This isn't to imply that Clearwater is oblivious to urbanism. Quite the opposite. Its downtown sector and surrounding environs have attracted quite a few major corporations; and yet, at the same time, locals remain committed to the preservation of nature. Wildlife preserves have allowed natural and urban habitats to coexist peacefully in Clearwater. That dedication to natural lands extends beyond the preservation of ecosystems.

Clearwater also is fiercely dedicated to the preservation of its parklands. Within the greater Clearwater/St. Petersburg region, more than 4,000 acres have been designated as parklands (Fort De Soto Park and Caladesi Island State Park are among the most noted in the area). Beaches have been given the same respect. Miles of coastline have been protected by local laws and regulations, and the efforts of local representatives have paid off. Today, one of Clearwater's major attractions remains its unspoiled beaches of white sand and rolling dunes.

Before you claim you're not interested in birdwatching, give it a try in Clearwater; you won't be disappointed. This region is home to numerous species that you won't see anywhere else. Several migratory species make the Clearwater/St. Petersburg their first stop as they journey across the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to pelicans, you'll also spot egrets, seagulls and herons, among many other varieties of birds. Clearwater is so dedicated to the preservation of its bird species, in fact, that each September, the city pays tribute to its winged residents with the Florida Birding Festival and Nature Expo. This festival combines fun and education, offering seminars and presentations as well as a marketplace and a variety of field trips.

Perhaps even more fascinating than the local bird life are the sea turtles who live en masse throughout the area. During the spring and summer months, sea turtles build their nests here; they're attracted by the region's warm sand, which provides adequate conditions for incubating their eggs. You're more than welcome to watch this fascinating display; however, on occasion, your access to the beach may be blocked by tape in an effort to protect the nesting sea turtles and other local aquatic life.

To experience another taste of Clearwater's aquatic species, visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The aquarium isn't just a place to view species; it's also dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of "lost" and injured sea creatures, some of which you might spot during your visit.

If a move to Clearwater is in your plans, you'll find an extremely diverse inventory of housing styles here, including beachfront condos, highrise properties, ranches, single-family homes tucked away on quiet streets or at lakeside or seaside. Architecture ranges from sleek and modern to Carribbean-style stucco to older, historic residences. And to accommodate the city's seasonal population of more than 20,000, vacation properties of all size and styles are plentiful, as well.

Clearwater, comprised of approximately 100,000 full-time residents, is known for its relatively affordable real estate, but if sprawling views of the ocean are your dream, you can expect to pay a high price for the privilege. In general, the residential real estate market is prospering here, in part due to the influx of high-tech, health-care and financial institutions throughout the area. Clearwater lies on the western side of Florida, right along the state's high-tech corridor. And as these high-tech companies continue to grow and prosper, their employees will be quite willing to spend more and more for luxurious seaside properties.

This pristine city has everything to offer its full- and part-time residents: more than 300 days of sunshine each year, a strong dedication to the preservation of its natural beauty (which certainly won't hurt property values) and a strong local economy that continues to be charged by a wealth of high-tech start-ups and giants alike. Clearwater proves that it's indeed possible to preserve nature without turning a blind eye toward urban development. Sometimes, however, dogged determination is required to ensure the preservation of the landscape. Residents who live in this natural playground aren't complaining -- and neither are the thousands of visitors who bring their binoculars here each year.

Published: May 29, 2000

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