I lived in clearwater beach for a while and hated to miss the (almost daily) sunset festival at pier 60. They had vendors of all types: crafts like jewelry, candle holders, glassware, and beauty products as well as henna artists, performers and food! I don't know if it is as awesome as it used to be since is has been a few years since my last vacation here but I will go back! If you miss the party, the pier is still a great place to go to the beach as well as a great playground area for the kids! also, fishing, that too.
Ft.Desoto is our favorite vacation place. We don't like to go to the beach without our pup (who loves it even more than us) so we go here to take advantage of the off-leash dog-beach! It is the only official off leash dog beach in Pinellas county and, as far as I can tell, the only one in mainland FL! Additionally, downtown St.Petersberg is nearby and some of the most beautiful water on gulf is all around you. I have yet to camp at the rv and camping site but we will next time. I hear that you can trade campsite for volunteering but do be warned that the gates close at night! We tried to get into the park for sunrise but were too early! Bummer!