Florida’s 825 miles of sandy beaches are ideal for all types of beach lovers. Whether you are looking for a romantic spot for a hand-in-hand stroll, an epic place to catch some waves or a family-friendly destination, there are plenty of seaside options in the Sunshine State. So, grab your bucket and spade, here are some of the best beaches in Florida.
7 of the Best Beaches in Florida
1. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key
Siesta Beach is situated on Siesta Key, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. The beach is famous for its brilliant quartz sand, turquoise waters and softly lapping waves. Not only is it one of the best beaches in Florida, but it is also one of the best beaches in the world. This beach is so idyllic, that you’ll find it difficult to leave, but you should tear yourself away to visit the rest of this delightful laid-back beach town. Siesta Key Village is also worth a visit.
2. South Beach, Miami
With its warm weather, crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean and a wide variety of cool sights, Miami in Florida is a great beach destination, and South Beach (SoBe) sums up Miami to a tee. South Beach is the southern and most famous section of Miami Beach. Along this legendary stretch of beach, turquoise-blue waves lap against shimmering white sand and Art Deco hotels flank the coastline. It’s quintessential Miami. South Beach also has a whimsical collection of colourful lifeguard huts which are totally unique to Miami and make for some striking Instagram photos.
3. Cocoa Beach, Space Coast
If you like to surf whilst at the beach, you have to go to Cocoa Beach, one of the most popular surf spots in all of Florida. During the year, several surfing competitions take place on the beach. It’s also one of the closest beaches to Orlando. Cocoa Beach is the home of the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop – the largest surf shop in the world. When catching some waves, keep your eyes peeled for Kelly Slater, this pro surfer is a local.
4. Bahia Honda Beach, Florida Keys
This secluded white-sand beach is located just 12 miles south of Marathon, at mile marker 37, and has some of the best snorkelling and beachcombing in Florida. Sink into the soft sand and let the soft lapping waves relax you or grab your snorkel and fins and head underwater. A super spot for beginners and children, underneath the wonderfully clear waters, you’ll spot sponges and soft corals and a variety of marine species, for example, lobsters.
5. Clearwater Beach, City of Clearwater
Clearwater is one of Florida’s most popular beaches. Its blindingly-white powdery soft sand and tranquil, blue water attract the crowds who come to swim and enjoy watersports, for instance, jet-skiing and stand-up paddleboarding. Lining the boardwalks are cute Mom and Pop eateries, and beautiful tropical plants and palms. Another big draw is its proximity to Orlando, which is only a two-hour drive away. When it comes to the best beaches in Florida and the best beaches along the Gulf coast, they don’t get much better than this.
6. St. Augustine Beach, Anastasia Island
St. Augustine Beach on Anastasia Island is known for its wide beaches on the Atlantic coastline. It’s a quiet destination, away from the crowds, where you can enjoy white sand beaches and balmy Floridian waters. St Augustine Beach stretches for four miles and is ideal for a romantic stroll, run or playing fetch with your canine companions.
7. Navarre Beach, Navarre
Nestled between the Gulf Islands National Seashore and Navarre Beach Country Park, Navarre Beach is one of the best beaches in America. Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, Navarre Beach is paradise personified with its 12 miles of pristine white shoreline and mesmerising emerald-coloured water.
