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16 Best Florida Beaches

By Charlotte Brown, Posted on 04 Jan, 2023 at 05:26 pm

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16 Best Florida Beaches

It is no wonder that Florida is brimming with unspoiled beauty and pristine beaches breaking up on 1,200 miles of coastline. Turquoise waters, charming beach towns, and white powdery sand where you can just lounge and soak up the warm beams of the sun. This sunshine state boasts a winning mix of an ideal vacation destination all year round. The weather of never-ending beach coastlines is literally just perfect if they are looking for some joyous moments in the sun. 

An array of options of entertainment in Florida will definitely spoil you for choices. From family beaches to catch-a-wave beaches to sporty beaches, you can find all under the shade of gorgeous Florida. And these countless turn on the mode of joy, entertainment and sets up the best backdrop for the newlywed honeymoon. No matter what you are, a surfer lover or a water sports freak, the beaches along the Atlantic Coast are the ultimate option for you!

And by the time now, you are probably thinking, what are the best Florida beaches and destinations for you in? So, let’s end the suspense and be ready to explore the serene-filled world-class destinations!

Best Beaches in Florida for Families


Destin:

Destin Beach

Frequent sunshine, Gulf waters, and white sand are all the wonderful making of this incredible Destin. This mainstay of Florida is considered one of the most pocket-friendly beach towns. Although, you will see a higher volume of visitors plus higher rates in summer. Head to the June White Decker Park, where the waves are bathing the white sand making the crashing roaring sounds, or just take a stroll. Make sure to hit Crystal Beach and take a relaxed walk on the shimmering quartz crystal white sand shore touching your feet. For a more laid-back vacation, you can also opt for sunbathing on one of the quietest relaxing beaches named Henderson Beach State Park. Oh yeah, you will also get to spot dancing dolphins, sea turtles, and other critters.

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Sanibel Island:

Sanibel Island

There is no better place than Sanibel Island because the calmness and quietness the shores deliver are just indescribable. Spend your time collecting the flamboyant and manifold seashells along the sand rather than partying, and that’s what makes this place the best choice for families. But, if you want more excellent seashells, just head to Blind Pass Beach or Bowman’s Beach. Plus, make sure to head to Lighthouse Beach Park, and where you can catch fish, and with the best backdrop, you can take brilliant snaps for your Instagram.

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Clearwater Beach:

Clear Water Beach

Clearwater Beaches attract relaxation seekers in swarms to its gentle water and white shining sand. Water sports lovers can opt for swimming, lounging, playing games on the sand like volleyball, or simply just choose to do rollerblading or biking on the neighboring Beach Walk esplanade. After all these activities, just head to Pier 60 to catch the magnificent sun drowning, and don’t forget to partake in the entertainment and crafts of the evening. Moreover, this is the best spot for anglers as the 1080 foot pier is embellished with lovely and various lights that make them active and energetic.


Naples:

Naples

To get an upscale Florida retreat, just make your way to Naples brimming with gourmet restaurants, boutique shops, and golf courses. So, we can bet you won't feel dull here because Naples won't give you the time for it. Whether you want an expensive vacation like luxurious resorts and high-priced activities or a pocket-friendly trip, you are free to enjoy it all in Naples. The beaches in this city offer tons of activities that won't cost you a dime. Hit the Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park; you will get ample opportunities of snorkeling, collecting seashells, spot wildlife, and much more. If you want to gaze at the vibrant sunset, head to Naples Municipal Beach and also get a chance to catch the fishes from its pier.

After spending a day on beaches, head to one of the top-notch restaurants and high-end hotels to grab a bite and relax your mind. 

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St. Petersburg, FL:

St.George Island

No wonder this dazzling Sunshine state provides the best of both worlds. You will come across miles of urban cityscapes and relaxing shorelines, and it will be the best option to get an escape without being disconnected to the beach. Moreover, the city has a world record of back-to-back days of sunshine, making this place the best among all and the perfect spot to lean back on the beautiful white sand. If you want something energetic and adrenaline-pumping, you shouldn't miss the shores of St. Pete Beaches. Here, you will come across one of the most prime spots named Pass-a-Grille Beach, where you can avail yourself of opportunities such as parasailing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. Keep your eyes peeled for shorebirds at Shell Key Preserve during sunbathing. 

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Siesta Key:

Siesta Key Beach

One of the most amazing jam-packed with fun barrier islands and best beaches in Florida for families is Siesta Key, recently displayed at the MTV show. It is surprisingly popular among families and couples and is located off Sarasota. It is considered one of the loveliest and best beaches in the entire nation boasting 8-miles of turquoise water and crystal sand with shopping, dining, and nighttime fun and entertainment. If you are searching for soft white sand, a quiet aura, and mind-boggling scenery, head to one of the top-notch beaches named Crescent Beach. Moreover, for long walks, you can head to Turtle Beach, where you can also collect seashells.

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Macro Island:

Macro Island attracts visitors with its unique fusion of top-notch resorts and crystal clear habitats. It is accessible through two bridges from Naples, Florida. Pass your time by opting for boating, and if you are a sea-food lover, you will find many mouth-watering cuisines at one of the many best restaurants. There is nothing to wonder about the spotless beaches of Marco Island. Take a long walk along the Tigertail Beach Park, search around for seashells, or you can also rent kayaks. Head to the South Marco Beach located near the resorts and condos, delivering ample space for swimming and sunbathing.


Santa Rosa Beach:

Santa Rosa Beach

Sparkling white sand, emerald water, top-graded dining, local art galleries, and boutiques are all the makings of Santa Rosa Beach. It stretches to 26-miles with the northwest coast of Florida. If you don't want the crowd of Destin or Panama City Beach, many travelers recommend Santa Rosa Beach. The favorite limelight spots boast Santa Rosa Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, and Grayton Beach State Park, and here you can sunbathe, swim, bodysurf, explore sand dunes, and much more.
 

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Fort Walton Beach:

Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Fort Walton Beach is one of the best Florida beaches for laid-back vacations, golf, deep-sea fishing, and attractions that suit every family member. From aquariums to parks, Fort Walton Beach won't let you feel bored. Head to the worth exploring stretches of sand such as Okaloosa Island that boasts a boardwalk, majestic sunset, and fishing pier. You can also head to John C. Beasley Park, which promises pristine white sand, designed picnic areas, and restrooms.

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St. George Island:

St. George Island is nestled about 75-miles from Tallahassee southwest, one of the best-loved retreats for relaxation seekers. This lively town beach is not famous for high-rise buildings and the finest sand squeezed under your feet, but also one of the several populated barrier islands away from the Gulf Coast of Florida that remains spotless. If you want to kayak, swim, camp, and fish, hit the Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park, and yeah! Keep an eye out for wildlife such as turtles, smiling dolphins, crabs, and pelicans. Or, pass some time at St. George Island Public Beach, where you can take your four-legged friends too. Check out its picnic benches and a playground. 


Islamorada:

If you are traveling to Florida's mainland, you will definitely pass through the Florida Keys and will find Islamorada, located after Key Largo and before Marathon. Islamorada is a mix of six Islands, and this serene-filled heavenly place is famous for its world-class sports such as saltwater fly fishing and fishing conditions. If you are a beachgoer or beach bums, you will be full of beans here as the spots are worth checking out embraces; Anne's Beach, one of the quietest and calmest areas for children and dogs, plus also for picnic persons and kayak enthusiasts. Or jump into the Holiday Isle Beach, which is situated nearby the hotels, bar, and other facilities.


Amelia Island:

Amelia Island

If you want to experience some old-world charm, consider visiting Amelia Island, one of the most relaxing beach destinations. It is nestled about 30 miles of Jacksonville northeast and boasts 13 miles of beaches with Island State Park. And, here, you can choose horseback riding and Main Beach Park, which features an outdoor skate park, volleyball courts, playground, and much more. If you want to escape from beaches, opt for games on the sand, such as a golf round on the championship courses of the island. Or just log in for a stroll under the Spanish moss-draped oak trees. 


Panama City Beach:

Panama City Beach

27-miles of shoreline overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach delivers a wide range of activities to visitors of all ages. One of the most prime spots for fishing is the Camp Helen State Park; colossal coastal dune lakes deserve a big thanks. Plugin for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and spotting the wildlife at St. Andrew State Park. You can also make your way to the Shell Island Shuttle, that's a great place for vacationers who are visiting in the fall, summer, and spring months. This spot is a 700-acre barrier island that is remarkably famous for an array of bottlenose dolphins.


Dry Tortugas National Park:

Dry Tortugas National Park is a fusion of 6 small islands located 70-miles west of Key West, one and the only national park that can only be accessed by the seaplanes or boats embracing the swift speed Yankee Freedom Ferry. Sprawling to 64,000 acres, the breathtaking crown jewel of the park is one of the immense 19th-century fortress named Fort Jefferson. Spend your day by diving into the water or simply relish the snorkeling. If you are with your little ones, the calm waters of east, south and north beaches on Garden Key will entertain them well. Moreover, hit the Loggerhead key that boasts coral reefs just a few feet off from the shore.


Key West:

Key West

One of the most far-flung destinations of the Florida Key from Florida’s mainland is the Key West. This mind-boggling spot is worth a trek. Don't let the size of this island bother you because it will knock your socks off with exhilarating festivals, fascinating people, and buzzing bars. Head to the famous spots such as Smathers Beach, mostly it gets crowded but worth a visit. If you want a spot filled with peace and quiet, consider jumping into the Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park. Explore the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park to picnic, snorkel, and explore the Civil War-era fort of the park, especially if you are with your kiddos; you shouldn't miss the spot.

Make sure to take a walk while sipping the margarita, and set your own pace at this place. And yeah, don't forget to check out the Mallory shop or a trip to Ernest Hemingway's old home. 


Miami Beach:

Miami Beach

Connected through bridges to mainland Miami and Miami beach is far beyond sun and sand great combo. There are countless best beaches in Miami where you can enjoy, including South Beach, Crandon Park Beach, Ocean rive, Lummus Park Beach, Bal Harbor Park Beach, and much more.  drenching yourself in water is not your style, head to the Art Deco Historic District and cherish the pastel-colored buildings.

Book Miami Beach Hotels from $18/night

Summing up, the sun, the warmth, and the peninsula, and here the recipe of fabulous beaches is completed in Florida. With so many overwhelming beaches, countless opportunities to play, entertain, and have fun will meet your way. From biking to riding tricycles, all you can have on the best beaches in Florida for families. Even if you are with your four-legged friends, you don't have to worry about them either. Because Florida will allow them to run, roam, and swim at some of its best beaches. So, if you were looking for fascinating destinations, whether it's a getaway trip or a family vacation trip, you are sure to find everything in Florida. Hurry up and get ready to dive into the fun-filled beaches!

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About Author

Charlotte Brown

Charlotte Brown is a California native who left her career in medicine three years ago to embark on a summer soul searching for the world. She's been to 20 countries and has penned down her experience in her blogs for helping other travel enthusiasts.