CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla. — City officials say Clearwater Beach has cleaned up nearly 90% of its beaches after Hurricane Milton, and many hotels and restaurants are now reopening.

What You Need To Know

  • City officials say that more than 90% Clearwater Beach's beaches have been cleaned up since Hurricane Milton

  • Businesses have been reopening, and workers and owners say they hope for tourism to pick up

  • Many businesses, though, are still cleaning up and remain closed 

Tourism is a huge economic driver in the area, and now tourists are returning to the beaches. At the same time, businesses like Pier 60 Concessions are back open.

Pier 60 Concessions owner Lisa Chandler said it has been great to reopen after being shuttered for nearly a month following Milton.

“We are so grateful to have the opportunity to reopen — it’s a beautiful day outside ... the sun is shining,” Chandler said.

Chandler said she is thrilled to have customers back.

“One word describes the way I feel right now is just simply grateful,” she said.

Just outside the business, the city's recovery efforts continue. Tons of sand are still being moved out, but the beaches are returning to normal.

Chandler said there is a lot of optimism, and it’s something many in Clearwater Beach need. She said many businesses are still cleaning up the mess left behind from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and owners and workers are looking forward to a strong tourism season.

“We are definitely not 100% as of yet, but the beaches have been groomed, our year-round lifeguards are on duty, the green flags are up and the cabanas are out,” Chandler said.