21 Beaches in Florida with the Clearest Water
In Florida, you can find crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. The shallow water and sandbars also make for a great swimming experience, especially for families with young children. Plus, the water quality and clarity make it an ideal location for snorkeling and other water activities. Some of the beaches in Florida with the clearest water even have unique features, like natural springs or protected marine life areas, that make them stand out from the rest.
Rosemary Beach
If you’re looking for a friendly and picturesque beach town with some of the clearest water in Florida, Rosemary Beach is the place for you. Located on the Gulf Coast, this charming community is part of the famous 30A stretch and offers visitors a laid-back atmosphere and stunning white sand beaches.
One of the special features of Rosemary Beach is its bike-friendly atmosphere. You can rent a bike and explore the town and surrounding areas at your own pace. The Gulf Coast breeze and beautiful scenery make for a perfect bike ride.
The beach itself is a must-see, with crystal clear water that is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The sand is soft and white, making it a great spot for sunbathing and relaxing.
If you’re looking to explore beyond the beach, Santa Rosa Beach is just a short drive away. Here, you can find more white sand beaches, as well as hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
Dry Tortugas
Dry Tortugas National Park is a must-visit destination. Located about 70 miles west of Key West, this remote island chain is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Dry Tortugas is by snorkeling or diving. The park is home to a diverse array of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and shipwrecks, making it a popular spot for underwater exploration. Keep an eye out for colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional shipwreck.
In Dry Tortugas you can find the historic fort, Fort Jefferson. This massive brick fortress was built in the mid-1800s and served as a military prison during the Civil War. Today, visitors can explore the fort and learn about its fascinating history.
To get to Dry Tortugas, you can take a ferry or seaplane from Key West. Keep in mind that the journey can be long and rough, so be sure to bring plenty of water and seasickness medication if needed.
Santa Rosa
In Santa Rosa Beach the water is so clear that you can see the fish swimming around your feet.
One of the special features of Santa Rosa is the fishing. You can catch a wide variety of fish in the clear waters, including redfish, trout, and flounder. If you’re not into fishing, you can still enjoy the water by kayaking, paddleboarding, or just taking a swim.
Santa Rosa Beach is also known for its friendly atmosphere. The locals are welcoming and always willing to help you find the best spots to enjoy the beach.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are plenty of options in Santa Rosa. You can choose from hotels, motels, or vacation rentals. Many of the rentals are located right on the beach, so you can wake up to the sound of the waves every morning.
Honeymoon Island State Park
If you are looking for a beach with crystal clear water, then Honeymoon Island State Park is a must-visit destination in Florida. Located in Dunedin, this state park offers miles of sandy coastline with clear waters for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
The Honeymoon Island beach is known for its abundance of seashells, making it a perfect spot for shell collectors. You can spend hours combing the beach for unique and beautiful shells and even sea glass.
In addition to the beach, Honeymoon Island State Park also has nature trails that offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. The Osprey Trail is a popular trail that takes you through a pine forest and offers views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Florida Keys
Florida Keys should definitely be on a list of places to visit for anyone traveling to Florida. The Keys are a chain of islands located off the southern coast of Florida, and they’re known for their stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant marine life.
One of the most popular activities in the Florida Keys is snorkeling. With its warm, clear waters, the Keys offer some of the best snorkeling in the world. You can explore colorful coral reefs and swim alongside schools of tropical fish. Key Largo is known as the “Diving Capital of the World,” and it’s a great place to start your underwater adventure.
If you prefer to stay above the water, kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities in the Florida Keys. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of the Keys at your own pace.
One recommendation for the Florida Keys is the opportunity to visit Biscayne National Park. This park is located just a short drive from the Keys and offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse marine ecosystem. You can take a guided tour or rent a kayak and explore on your own.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is a must-visit destination. Located in Clearwater, Florida, this beach is known for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters.
Clearwater Beach has calm and gentle waters, making it a perfect spot for paddle boarding. You can rent paddle boards from one of the many rental shops located along the beach.
Clearwater Beach also offers a variety of amenities to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. From showers and restrooms to beach chairs and umbrellas, you’ll find everything you need for a day at the beach.
If you’re looking for a break from the sun, head over to the nearby town of St. Petersburg. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums to explore.
Clearwater Beach is a friendly and welcoming destination that is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Navarre Beach
If you are looking for a friendly beach with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water, Navarre Beach is the place to be. Located on the Emerald Coast in Santa Rosa County, Florida, Navarre Beach is known for its snowy white sand, abundant nature, and relaxing vibe.
Navarre Beach is the home of the longest pier in Florida. The pier is a popular spot for fishing, and you can catch a variety of fish such as redfish, king mackerel, and Spanish mackerel. If you are not into fishing, you can take a stroll on the pier and enjoy the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Navarre Beach is also a great place for water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. You can rent equipment from the local vendors and explore the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. If you are lucky, you might even spot some dolphins swimming in the distance.
The beach is perfect for families with children, as the water is shallow and calm. There are also picnic areas and playgrounds for kids to enjoy. If you want to take a break from the beach, you can visit the nearby Navarre Beach Marine Science Station and learn about the marine life in the Gulf of Mexico.
Siesta Key Beach
If you’re looking for a beach with crystal clear water and soft white sand, then Siesta Key Beach is the perfect destination for you. Located in Sarasota, Florida, Siesta Key Beach is famous for its powdery white sand that stays cool even on the hottest days.
One of the unique features of Siesta Key Beach is its sand. The sand is made almost entirely of quartz crystals, which gives it its pure white color and reflects the sunlight, making the water appear even clearer.
Siesta Key Beach is also known for its friendly atmosphere and family-friendly environment. The beach has lifeguards on duty, making it a safe place for children to swim and play.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained at Siesta Key Beach. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other water sports equipment to explore the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
In all of our many vacations in Florida over the years, Siesta Key is still our favorite place and we can’t wait to get back.
Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is located on the Gulf Coast and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the state.
One of the most popular beaches on Anna Maria Island is Manatee Public Beach. The clear water is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and there are lots of facilities available, such as lifeguards, showers, public washrooms, and more. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas if you want to relax and soak up the sun.
Another great beach on the island is Bean Point. This secluded beach is located on the northern tip of the island and is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. It’s a great spot for paddleboarding or just taking a peaceful stroll along the shoreline.
If you’re looking for a unique feature on Anna Maria Island, check out the Sandbar Restaurant. This restaurant is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. You can enjoy delicious seafood while listening to the sound of the waves.
Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is located in the panhandle of Florida. This beach is part of the Emerald Coast and is known for its white sandy beaches and emerald green waters.
In Panama City Beach there are a lot of snorkeling opportunities. With clear waters, you can see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and even sea turtles. You can rent snorkeling gear from local shops or take a guided tour to explore the underwater world.
Fishing is also popular in Panama City Beach. You can fish from the shore or take a charter boat out to deeper waters. The crystal-clear waters make it easy to spot fish, and you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming alongside your boat.
In addition to its natural beauty, Panama City Beach offers plenty of amenities. You’ll find beachfront restaurants, shops, and activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an action-packed adventure, Panama City Beach has something for everyone.
Emerald Coast
Located in the northwest region of the state, the Emerald Coast is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The Emerald Coast has a friendly atmosphere. The locals are known for their hospitality, and you’ll find that the area is very welcoming to visitors. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or go fishing, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to do so on the Emerald Coast.
Destin is one of the most popular destinations on the Emerald Coast. It’s known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” and is home to some of the best fishing charters in the state. You can also find plenty of water sports activities here, such as jet skiing and parasailing.
In addition to fishing and water sports, the Emerald Coast is also home to several state parks, including Henderson Beach State Park and Grayton Beach State Park. These parks offer miles of pristine beaches and nature trails for you to explore.
Miami Beach
If you’re looking for a beach with crystal-clear water in Miami, Miami Beach is a great option. This beach is located in the heart of Miami and is known for its soft, white sand and turquoise waters. The beach is also popular for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities.
Miami Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the sunshine state’s beautiful weather, and it offers a wide range of activities for everyone. You can relax on the beach, take a dip in the clear water, or go for a walk along the boardwalk. Miami Beach also offers a bustling nightlife with plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs to choose from.
In Miami Beach you will find the Art Deco Historic District. This area is home to over 800 historic buildings, many of which are beautifully restored and feature unique architecture. You can take a walking tour of the district to learn more about the history and culture of Miami.
Jupiter
Located in South Florida, Jupiter has 3.4 miles of beaches along its coastline. The water here is crystal clear, thanks to the Gulf Stream current that flows close to the shore.
One special feature of Jupiter is that it’s a popular spot for paddleboarding and kayaking. You can rent equipment and explore the clear waters at your own pace. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some marine life, such as sea turtles or dolphins.
Here are some of the best beaches in Jupiter with clear water:
Carlin Park Beach: This beach has clear water and plenty of amenities, including picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a playground. It’s a great spot for families.
Coral Cove Park: This beach is known for its clear water and great snorkeling. You can rent equipment and explore the underwater world.
Jupiter Beach Park: This beach has clear water and is a popular spot for surfing and fishing. There are also plenty of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic areas.
Smathers Beach
The Smathers Beach is a must-visit location. Located in Key West, this beach is known for its stunning views and friendly atmosphere.
The Beach has a long stretch of soft sand where you can have a picnic or simply relax and soak up the sun. The beach also offers a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, jet-skiing, and parasailing, making it a perfect spot for adventure seekers.
Smathers Beach is a great place to spend the day with family and friends. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas, and there are plenty of food vendors nearby where you can grab a snack or one of the famous cocktails from Florida.
In addition, the relaxed atmosphere and the natural beauty, made Smathers Beach and ideal location to elope in Florida.
Palm Beach
Known for its high-end resorts and upscale amenities, Palm Beach offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Palm Beach is also home to a variety of luxury resorts and hotels that offer top-notch amenities, including private beaches, high-end restaurants, and world-class spas. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Palm Beach has something for everyone.
In addition to the beach, Palm Beach offers a variety of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. Take a stroll down Worth Avenue, known for its high-end shops and boutiques, or visit the Flagler Museum, a historic mansion that offers a glimpse into Florida’s past.
Biscayne Beach
Located in Biscayne National Park, Biscayne Beach is a must-visit. The clear water makes it easy to spot all sorts of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
One great thing about Biscayne Beach is that it’s part of a national park, which means that the beach and its surrounding areas are protected. This helps to keep the water clear and the marine life healthy, so you can enjoy the beach without worrying about harming the environment.
In addition to snorkeling and diving, Biscayne Beach is also a great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. The calm waters and beautiful scenery make it a peaceful and relaxing place to spend the day.
Destin Beach
Located in the heart of the Emerald Coast, Destin Beach is known for its pristine white sand and stunning turquoise waters. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.
Destin Beach is known for its fishing opportunities. The beach is a popular spot for both recreational and commercial fishing, with a variety of fish species available throughout the year. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, you’re sure to have a great time fishing at Destin Beach.
In addition to fishing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Destin Beach. You can take a relaxing walk along the beach, go paddleboarding or kayaking, or simply soak up the sun. The beach is family-friendly, with plenty of space for kids to play and build sandcastles.
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is known for its abundance of seashells. In fact, the island is home to over 250 types of shells, making it a paradise for shell collectors. You can spend hours walking along the beaches, searching for the perfect shells to take home as a souvenir.
In addition to shelling, Sanibel Island offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The water is warm and inviting, with a visibility that makes it easy to spot schools of fish and other marine life.
If you’re looking for a friendly and laid-back atmosphere, Sanibel Island is the perfect destination. The island has a small-town feel, with friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Sanibel Island has something for everyone.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
One of the special features of Gulf Islands National Seashore is its expansive park land, which spans two states – Florida and Mississippi. The beach itself is well-groomed and clean, with a large covered picnic area, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a lifeguard station with rescue vehicles and surf condition flag alerts. With adequate parking for hundreds of vehicles, you can easily spend a whole day here.
If you’re into fishing, Gulf Islands National Seashore has plenty of options to choose from. You can fish in the Gulf of Mexico or in the Santa Rosa Sound, which is a popular spot for catching redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. If you prefer hiking, there are several nature trails that offer scenic views of the beach and the surrounding area.
Inlet Beach
If you’re looking for crystal-clear waters and a laid-back atmosphere, Inlet Beach is the perfect destination for you. Located along the Gulf Coast in the heart of 30A, this friendly beach town boasts some of the clearest waters in Florida.
One of the special features of Inlet Beach is its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Unlike some of the more crowded beaches in Florida, Inlet Beach offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its pristine white sand and emerald green waters, it’s easy to see why Inlet Beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
In addition to its clear waters, Inlet Beach is also home to some of the most beautiful sunsets in Florida. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or taking a stroll along the shoreline, you won’t want to miss the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico.
If you’re looking for activities to do while you’re in Inlet Beach, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of Lake Powell, or take a bike ride along the scenic 30A bike path. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops in the area, so you can easily spend a day exploring all that Inlet Beach has to offer.
Caladesi Island
Located off the coast of Clearwater Beach, Florida, Caladesi Island State Park is a pristine, undeveloped barrier island that boasts some of the clearest water in Florida.
In Caladesi Island there are many shelling opportunities. The island is home to some of the best shelling in the state, with a wide variety of shells to discover. You can spend hours strolling along the beach, collecting shells and enjoying the stunning scenery.
In addition to the beautiful beaches, Caladesi Island also offers nature trails that wind through the island’s lush vegetation. These trails offer a chance to get up close and personal with the island’s wildlife, including a variety of bird species.
Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach, Caladesi Island is the perfect destination. With its clear water, stunning scenery, and friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this island is one of the top beaches in Florida.
I am a father of a 2 energetic boys. If one of them accidently sleeps past 6am, the other one make sure he will wake up. Traveling is our favorite activity as a family and we try to do it almost every time school is out. Our favorite location is Florida (coming from Baltimore the warm weather is usually a blessing).