CLEARWATER BEACH, FL -
USA Today announced Clearwater Beach won the honor of "Best Beach Town in Florida" in an online poll.
More than 30,000 votes were cast in the poll that was posted in January. Tourism agency, "Visit St. Pete Clearwater" posted the poll to its facebook page and reached more than 140,000 people. Deputy Director David Downing said it was the most viewed item ever on its page.
He also added that social media played a big part in the win.
"We understand that Miami tried to get Kim Kardashian to tweet about it, and they failed doing that," he said.
Clearwater Beach beat out some pretty stiff competition from around the state. Siesta Key, Sanibel Island and Miami's South Beach were all near the top. But in the end, Clearwater Beach ended up taking 25% of the vote, making it the clear winner, according to USA Today.
Visitors to Clearwater Beach said they understand why it was voted the best.
"I think Clearwater Beach has got them beat," said Bill Sandlin, who's been visiting from Ohio since 1982. "Siesta Key is pretty close, but Clearwater to me is number one."
Sheri Ann Heath-Johnston's family has been coming to Florida for years. They have traveled all over the state, but eventually decided to buy a condo on Clearwater Beach.
"We come here and the beach is just beautiful, and there's always really friendly people. And the kids love it," she said.
