The best beaches in Florida offer soft sands, clear waters, and exciting activities - let me help you choose which one is best for you based on my travels there.
Florida’s coastline is a beach bum’s dream, with over 1,300 miles of beautiful shores to explore. I’ve visited countless times over the years and I love it every single time!
Whether you want a peaceful getaway, a fun, lively spot, or anything in between, Florida has it.
I’ve been to different Florida beaches for family trips, girl’s trips, couple’s trips, and every beach brings a completely different vibe! Each beach gave me a different experience.
I couldn’t get over the powdery white sand in Sandestin, I loved how fun Hollywood Beach was, and my favorite beach town in the country is Miami… just to name a few of my faves!
Keep reading for a guide to the best beaches in the state – perfect for whatever kind of beach day you’re looking for!
Key Takeaways
- Florida’s best beaches are scattered throughout the state, on both the Gulf and Atlantic coasts.
- The beaches offer a variety of vibes you can choose from — family-friendly, fun, or secluded gems.
- There are many factors to consider when choosing which one of Florida’s best beaches to visit.
Table of Contents
When's the Best Time to Visit Florida?
The best time to visit Florida depends on your priorities. Things like weather, crowds, or budget will determine when you should visit. For most, late spring (May) and late fall (November) strike a good balance.
Spring (March to May): This is considered one of the best times to visit Florida. The weather is warm, with plenty of sunshine, but it’s not unbearably hot yet. Because of this, there are higher prices and larger crowds, especially around Spring Break. Late April and May are best if you want to avoid the Spring Break crowds while still enjoying great weather.
Fall (September to November): If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, fall is a great option. The weather is warm BUT it’s hurricane season. Because of that, there are less crowds and you’ll be able to find better deals on hotels and excursions. September and October are best for budget-conscious travelers.
Winter (December to February): Winter is a popular time to visit South Florida, especially for those escaping colder climates. Although the weather is still warm enough for beach activities, it tends to be more crowded and expensive, particularly around the holidays.
Avoiding Crowds: For a quieter experience and less crowds, late spring (after school breaks) and fall are the best choices.
🏖 Want more info about Florida’s beaches? 🏖
14 Beautiful White Sand Beaches in Florida
15 Best Beaches Near Orlando
Best Beaches on Florida's Gulf Coast
1. Siesta Key Beach
Best for: Families
Let’s kick things off with one of Florida’s most iconic beaches – Siesta Key. Located just off Sarasota on Florida’s Gulf Coast, this beach is a true paradise and consistently ranks among the best in the world. The sand here is made of 99% pure quartz, making it super soft and cool to the touch, even on the hottest days.
The shallow, calm waters make it perfect for swimming and wading, so families with littles will love it. If you’re into water sports, kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing are all popular here.
Siesta Key isn’t just about the beach though! The beautiful eight-mile barrier island offers plenty of dining spots, local shops, and a fun atmosphere. Nearby, Siesta Key Village is filled with tropical bars and unique restaurants. There’s something for everyone!
Amenities:
- Restrooms and showers
- Parking
- Lifeguards
- Picnic areas and BBQ grills
- Rental shops
- Chair and umbrella rentals
- Food and bars nearby
- Shopping nearby
- Playground
Nearby Dining Options:
- The Cottage (American)
- Big Water Fish Market (Seafood)
- Siesta Key Summer House (Steakhouse)
2. Destin
Best for: Water sport lovers
Next up is Destin, located on the stunning Emerald Coast (I’m not joking, the beaches here are out of this world). Destin is famous for its striking emerald-green waters and soft, powdery white sand.
This is the spot for anyone who loves water sports. Destin has everything—parasailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, boat cruises, and so much more. The calm, shallow waters make it a great spot to swim with small kids or anyone who wants an easy swim, but there’s also plenty of space for more experienced swimmers. If you’re a water lover, Destin is your spot!
After the beach, you can head to the Destin Harbor Boardwalk where you can enjoy fresh seafood (Destin is known for it!), go shopping, or hop on an excursion.
Amenities:
- Restrooms and showers
- Parking
- Lifeguards (seasonal)
- Picnic areas and BBQ grills
- Rental shops
- Chair and umbrella rentals
- Food and bars nearby
- Shopping nearby
- Playground
Nearby Dining Options:
- Brotula’s Seafood House (American)
- Pompano Joe’s (Seafood)
- Boshamp’s Seafood (Cajun)
3. Fort Myers Beach
Best for: Relaxation and Sunsets
Fort Myers Beach on Estero Island is the perfect spot for lounging. The wide, sandy beach and calm waters are ideal for enjoying the sun, playing beach games, or swimming in the warm waters. It’s great for families or couples who just want to relax in a peaceful, laid-back environment. The sunsets here are famous too!
If you’re into water sports, there’s plenty to do here – paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing. Fishing is popular on the pier, and while you’re up there you might spot pelicans and dolphins too!
The area around Times Square offers cute shops and yummy dining options, so you can enjoy a delicious meal after a beach day. You can take the free trolley all around town too! And if you have a car, Fort Myer’s bustling downtown area, River District, is about 20 minutes north.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Parking
- Beach chair/ umbrella rentals
- Water sport rentals
- Food nearby
Nearby Dining Options:
- Doc Ford’s Rum Bar (Caribbean)
- Matanzas on the Bay (Seafood)
- Cottage Bar (Casual beachside dining)
4. Clearwater Beach
Best for: Action and Fun
Clearwater Beach is perfect for those who want a little bit of everything. With crystal-clear waters and a wide, white sand beach, it’s a place where you can swim, lounge around, or play beach volleyball all day long.
What really sets Clearwater apart is the action. You’ll find tons of water activities like jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and plenty of boat tours (like dolphin watching!)
Pier 60 is a popular hangout spot, where you’ll see street performers, vendors, and nightly sunset celebrations. There are also tons of family-friendly activities, making it a great option for everyone from solo adventurers to families.
Amenities:
- Restrooms and showers
- Lifeguards
- Volleyball nets
- Playgrounds
- Pavilions
Nearby Dining Options:
- The Salty Crab Bar (American)
- Marina Cantina (Mexican)
- Caretta on the Gulf (Steakhouse)
5. Sanibel Island
Best for: Nature Lovers and Shell Collectors
If you’re craving a quiet, more natural escape, Sanibel Island is the place to be. Just off Florida’s coast, Sanibel and nearby Captiva are all about low-key beach vibes. Known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, amazing seashells, and wildlife, Sanibel is perfect for those who want to relax and connect with nature.
You can spend your day shell hunting, kayaking, paddleboarding, bike riding, or checking out the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum (the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to shells!) If you’re into wildlife, the Darling National Wildlife Refuge is where you’ll find plenty of birds, manatees, and other local wildlife.
For a mix of fun and relaxation, you can shop, dine, or explore the Lighthouse Beach area, but if you’re after something more peaceful, Bowman’s Beach is a great spot to kick back.
Amenities:
- Restrooms and Showers
- Parking
- Picnic areas and BBQ grills
- Pavillions
Nearby Dining Options:
- Doc Ford’s Rum Bar (American)
- Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen (Italian)
- MudBugs Cajun Kitchen (Cajun)
6. Seaside Beach
Best for: Charm and Scenic Beauty
Seaside Beach is postcard-worthy. It has pastel-colored cottages, a charming boardwalk, and clear waters. Seaside offers a unique beach experience that combines natural beauty with a cozy, small-town atmosphere. Fun fact: the Truman Show beach scene is Seaside Beach!
You can easily just kick back, relax, and enjoy the adorable scenery, but there’s still plenty of fun things to do. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and biking are all popular activities.
The nearby town also offers great shopping, dining, and fun events, making it a perfect spot for those who want a mix of beach and local charm.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Parking
- Beach chair / umbrella rentals
- Water sport rentals
- Food nearby
Nearby Dining Options:
- Bud and Alley’s (Seafood)
- Great Southern Cafe (Southern)
- Amavida Coffee (Coffee)
7. Marco Island
Best for: Quiet Getaways
If you’re looking for a calm, hidden gem type beach, quiet Marco Island is it. The island has wide, pure white sand beaches and turquoise Gulf waters. And along with being ridiculously beautiful, it’s another great beach for shelling!
Marco Island offers a good old fashioned beach day. Calm waters are great for swimming and renting kayaks or paddleboats. If you want more action, jet skis, parasailing, and boat tours are available.
There’s a good selection of restaurants and shops within walking distance too, so you won’t have to move far. Marco Island is an easy peasy beach vacation.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Parking
- Volleyball courts
- Beach chair / umbrella rentals
- Water sport rentals
- Playground
- PIcnic tables
- Food nearby
Nearby Dining Options:
- The Oyster Society (Upscale seafood)
- Snook Inn (Casual seafood)
- DaVinci’s (Italian)
Best Beaches Along Florida's Atlantic Coast
8. South Beach Miami
Best for: Vibrant Energy and Parties
If you’re looking for a fun, high-energy beach day, South Beach in Miami is where it’s at!
It’s all about fun nightlife, luxury oceanfront hotels, art deco architecture, and a world-famous beach scene. It’s the perfect mix of beach and city life.
The beach has turquoise waters perfect for swimming, and the wide, sandy shoreline is great for lounging and people-watching. If you want some action, there are options for water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, or boat rides are available.
After the beach, Ocean Drive offers a variety of dining spots, bars, and clubs.
Amenities:
- Restrooms and showers
- Parking
- Beach chair and umbrella rentals
- Water sport rentals
- Food and bars nearby
Nearby Dining Options:
- Joe’s Stone Crab (Seafood)
- La Mulata (Cuban)
- CRAFT South Beach (Pizza)
9. Vero Beach
Best for: Nature Lovers and Tranquil Retreats
Vero Beach on Florida’s Treasure Coast is a mix of natural beauty and laid-back vibes. The 26 miles of beautiful beaches are known for soft sands and clear waters.
You’ll have plenty of water sports to choose from, too—you can kayak, paddle board, cruise the lagoon, surf, fish, or get on an airboat. Vero Beach is also known for its turtle nesting season, where you can see baby sea turtles hatching in the summer months!
The local shops and restaurants in Vero Beach’s adorable downtown area are perfect for exploring after the beach.
Amenities:
- Restrooms,
- Showers
- Lifeguards
- Picnic areas
- Playground
- Pavillions
- Volleyball courts
Nearby Dining Options:
- Ocean Grill (Seafood)
- The Lemon Tree (Breakfast)
- Grind + Grape (Coffee)
10. Hollywood Beach
Best for: Family Fun and Boardwalk Strolls
Named one of Fodor’s Best Beach for Families, Hollywood Beach is a gem—it’s wide, the white sand goes on for miles, and the water is clear.
There are a lot of options for water activities—jet skis, surf lessons, kayaking, parasailing, paddleboats, or just swimming. There are multiple volleyball nets set up on the beach too. And some resorts have full service on the beach, so you can get food and drinks right at your beach chair.
After your beach day, take a leisurely stroll or bike-ride (or rollerblade) down the Broadwalk full of restaurants, boutiques, and dessert shops.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Seasonal lifeguards
- Parking
- Beach chair/umbrella rentals
- Volleyball courts
- Beach wheelchairs
- Water sport rentals
- Food and bars nearby
Nearby Dining Options:
- GG’s Waterfront Bar (Seafood)
- Le Tub Saloon (Burgers)
- Billy’s Stone Crab (Seafood)
11. Amelia Island
Best for: Seclusion and Coastal Beauty
Amelia Island, a barrier island on the northernmost part of Florida’s Atlantic Coast, is a peaceful escape offering miles of beautiful coastal scenery and pristine beaches of appalachian-quartz sand.
The waters are perfect for swimming, but Amelia Island is also known for kayaking, fishing, boating, and even horseback riding along the shoreline. It’s also a bird paradise! There are over 300 species that pass through the island.
The historic district in Fernandina Beach has small shops, great restaurants, with an old-world charm.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Parking
- Picnic areas
- Volleyball courts
- Playground
- Beach chair and umbrella rentals
- Water sport rentals
- Food nearby
Nearby Dining Options:
- Salt (Fine dining)
- The Crab Trap (Casual seafood)
- Espana Restaurant (Spanish)
12. Delray Beach
Best for Art, Culture, and Beach Fun
Delray Beach is a vibrant, artsy beach town in Palm Beach County. It offers the perfect mix of active beach days and exciting nightlife.
The pristine beach is great for swimming or lounging by the water, but there’s plenty more to do, like jet ski, paddleboard, or beach volleyball.
In the evening, Atlantic Avenue is the spot for trendy restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and fun bars. Delray Beach is known for its active vibes. There’s always something going on, from outdoor festivals to art walks!
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Parking
- Lifeguards
- Drinking fountains
- Beach chair/umbrella rentals
- Beach wheelchairs
- Water sport rentals
- Food and bars nearby
Nearby Dining Options:
- Salt 7 (Steakhouse)
- El Camino (Mexican)
- The Office (American)
13. New Smyrna Beach
Best for: Surfing and Laid-Back Vibes
If you want to relax, head to New Smyrna. Located on Florida’s central coast, it’s a calm, quiet beach town with 17 miles of white-sand beaches, a 2-mile boardwalk, and a cute downtown village. It’s also the spot for surfers, it’s called the surfing mecca of the East Coast!
There’s plenty to do from bike trails, kayaking, paddle boarding, or sunset dolphin tours. The waters are ideal for swimming, especially around the more shallow areas.
The charming downtown area, Flagler Avenue, is lined with boutiques, art galleries, ice cream parlors, and laid-back restaurants lining the streets.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Lifeguards
- Parking
- Picnic tables
- Water sport rentals
- Food nearby
Nearby dining options:
- The Garlic (Italian)
- Norwood’s (Seafood)
- The Breakers (Seafood)
Hidden Gems and Secluded Beaches to Explore
14. Caladesi Island State Park
Best for: Seclusion and Natural Beauty
If you’re looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path beach, Caladesi Island State Park is a barrier island known for pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unspoiled surroundings. It’s consistently in Dr. Beach’s top 10 beaches and was ranked America’s Top Beach in 2008!
You can only get there by boat or ferry, but once you’re on this peaceful island, you’ll find soft sand, clear waters, and plenty of space. You can go swimming, fishing, kayak through mangroves, explore nature trails, or check out the island’s hiking trails.
When you’re done at the beach, you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the island’s boardwalks or take in the stunning views of the Gulf Coast.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Picnic areas
- Food nearby
- Canoe launch
15. Grayton Beach State Park
Best for: Laid-back Charm and Outdoor Adventures
Grayton Beach State Park is a hidden gem along Florida’s Gulf Coast known for its scenic beauty and low-key vibe. It’s consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the U.S.—like Top Ten Beach in 2016 by Dr. Beach.
Located between Panama City Beach and Destin, the beach offers a mile of soft, white sugar sand and turquoise, calm waters. It’s framed by rolling dunes and a forest. For some adventure, you can kayak, fish, paddleboard or explore miles of trails winding through coastal forests or rare coastal dune lakes.
After a day of fun, the town of Grayton Beach offers quaint restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops for a relaxed evening.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Kayak and canoe launch
- Picnic area
- Parking
- Boat ramp
- Campfire area
16. Bahia Honda State Park
Best for: Scenic Views and Family-Friendly Relaxation
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape with stunning views, Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys is the perfect spot.
The breathtakingly beautiful state park spans over 500 acres and includes an offshore island, offering some of the best snorkeling and beachcombing in Florida. With its calm, turquoise waters, Bahia Honda is great for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking by the shore. There are also kayak rentals, daily snorkeling tours, and boat tours.
The park is also home to excellent hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding keys, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Concession stand
- Picnic tables
- Campsite
- Boat tours
17. Clam Pass Beach Park
Best for: Scenic Trails and Calm Waters
Clam Pass Beach in Naples offers a beautiful, laid-back beach experience. It’s where you go when you want to get away and just enjoy nature. It’s known for a boardwalk that leads through a mangrove forest!
The beach has calm, shallow waters and is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. You can also take the scenic tram or walk along the boardwalk, enjoying views of wildlife and lush vegetation along the way.
After enjoying a relaxing day on the beach, grab a bite at one of the nearby restaurants or explore the vibrant atmosphere of nearby Naples.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Foot showers
- Parking
- Free beach tram
- Food nearby
- Life jacket loaner program
- Beach wheelchair
18. Opal Beach
Best for: Peaceful Beauty and Pristine Waters
Opal Beach is a local’s secret! Located in the Gulf Islands National Seashore near Pensacola, it offers a quiet, serene, uncrowded beach day. Known for its soft, bright white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s a perfect spot to escape.
The beach is great for swimming, lounging, fishing, picnicking, or just walking along the shoreline. There are also plenty of nearby parks to explore.
With its calm and peaceful vibes, Opal Beach is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind in a tranquil setting.
Amenities:
- Public restrooms
- Outdoor showers
- Picnic shelters
- Seasonal lifeguards
19. Fort De Soto
Best for: History, Nature, and Outdoor Fun
Popular Fort De Soto Park covers 1,136 acres spread across the Florida Gulf Coast. It offers a unique blend of history, nature, and beaches. Dr. Beach named it the nation’s No. 1 Beach in 2005, and among the top 10 beaches in 2024.
The spacious, pristine beaches have calm waters that are great for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. In addition to the beach, you can explore a fascinating military fort, or ride bikes along a scenic seven-mile-long path.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Picnic shelters
- Playgrounds
- Swim centers
- Food nearby
- Dog park
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Florida Beach
Florida is full of all types of beaches, so there are a number of things to keep in mind when deciding which one is the best for you.
- The vibe. If you’re looking for a lively scene with plenty to do, South Beach or Siesta Key are your spots. But if you want something quiet, try Sanibel Island or Caladesi Island.
- The water. Some Florida beaches like Siesta Key have calm, shallow water that is perfect for family vacations. But other like Daytona Beach are better for water sports.
- Type of trip. If you’re bringing small children, consider places like Cocoa Beach or Clearwater that cater to families. If it’s an adult trip, South Beach is your best bet.
- The crowds. If you want to avoid crowds, don’t visit during school breaks or when major events are being held.
- Weather. Obviously! The winter months are cooler everywhere other than the southern cities.
FAQs: Best Beaches in Florida
What side of Florida has the prettiest beaches?
The Gulf Coast of Florida is considered to have the prettiest beaches, because of its powdery white sand and calm, clear waters. Destinations like Siesta Key, Destin, and Sanibel Island are famous for their pristine, white-sand beaches.
The Atlantic Coast does have some stunning beaches like Vero Beach and Miami, though the sand isn’t as powdery soft and the waves can be rougher.
Best beaches in Florida for families?
Some of the best beaches for families in Florida include:
- Siesta Key: Has soft, powdery sand and shallow waters that are great for young kids.
- Clearwater Beach: Has calm waters and a wide range of family-friendly activities, from beach games to nearby attractions like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
- Fort De Soto Park: A quiet spot with calm waters and a variety of outdoor activities.
Where in Florida are white sand beaches?
Florida is home to many white sand beaches, but some of the most famous include:
Siesta Key, Destin, Sanibel Island, Panama City Beach, Clearwater Beach, and Fort Myers Beach.
Wrapping Up: Florida's Best Beaches
No matter what kind of beach experience you’re looking for, Florida has something for you! From vibrant and fun South Beach to family friendly spots like Destin, Florida’s beaches offer a little slice of paradise for every type of traveler.
Like I mentioned, I’ve been around the whole state of Florida exploring the beautiful beaches and I’ve always had an amazing time!
