Thinking about pulling the boat down for a few days. Wanted to hit Anclote Key, Gators and a few other spots. Seems like Clearwater is close to the middle of eveerything. Any suggestions on a place to stay and leave the boat in the water? Also any ideas for places to eat or visit while there (mainly boating places I only live about 1.5 hours away)?

Tierre Verde Resort/Mirage Tierre Verde,Fl Great place to set up home base,Good marina,pool,bar,hotel and lots of eye eye candy on Sundays !!

There a place on the intercoastal right by the corey causeway . (on the north end of boca ceiga bay) called "Bridgeview". It is red colored biulding that is right next to Leverocks. Great food and they have a dock.
(not leverocks, they suck).

If you want a good meal head down Gulf Blvd to the Salt Rock.
Great place.

Cuda, BajaDaze, would be great people to ask. I think the best boat ramp in the area is Ft. Desoto Park on Tierra Verde, which is about the middle of the action. I'm just learning that area, I live further south, but this seems to be the general opinion.

I think Fort Desoto is best ramp around. Huge and there always is parking. (not always the case at all the ramps 'round here). Salt Rock Grill is just north of Park Blvd on Intercoatal. Can go by boat or car. Top notch food for sure, best seafood around really in my opion, but more pricy than some places.