We Visited 27 Beaches in Florida: You Wouldn’t Guess Which One is the Best

Florida is a state that is known for its beautiful beaches. With over 1,300 miles of coastline, it’s no wonder that Florida is a popular destination for beachgoers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, secluded spot to relax or a lively beach with plenty of activities, Florida has something for everyone.

When it comes to the best beaches in Florida, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean’s rolling waves, each beach has its unique charm. Some of the best beaches in Florida include Clearwater Beach, South Beach, Siesta Key Beach, and Panama City Beach. Each of these beaches has something different to offer, whether it’s the soft, white sand, the warm, turquoise waters, or the bustling beach town atmosphere.

Best Beach For Families

If you’re traveling with your family, there are plenty of beaches in Florida that offer something for everyone. However, the best beach for families has to be Siesta Key Beach.

Located in Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach is a beautiful, white sand beach that’s perfect for families. The sand is cool to the touch, making it comfortable for kids to play on, and there are plenty of amenities nearby, including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.

One of the reasons Siesta Key Beach is so great for families is that there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other water sports equipment, or take a relaxing walk along the beach. There are also plenty of restaurants and ice cream shops nearby, so you can grab a bite to eat or a sweet treat after a day in the sun.

In addition to its amenities and activities, Siesta Key Beach is also a safe and clean beach. The water is clear and calm, making it a great place for kids to swim and play. The beach is also regularly cleaned and maintained, so you can feel confident that your family is enjoying a safe and healthy environment.

In the recent years, Sarasota became a favorite babymoon destination in Florida for people who are expecting a new baby into their family.

Best Beach for Young People

The best beach for young people in Florida is undoubtedly South Beach in Miami. This iconic beach is known for its beautiful white sand, crystal-clear water, and lively atmosphere. The beach is always buzzing with activity, and there are plenty of things to do both on and off the sand.

South Beach is perfect for young people who want to soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, and enjoy a lively nightlife. The beach is surrounded by some of the best restaurants, bars, and nightclubs in the city, making it the perfect place to party after a day in the sun.

In addition to its vibrant nightlife, South Beach is also home to some of the best shopping in the city. The area is known for its designer boutiques, high-end fashion stores, and trendy shops, making it a great place to pick up some new beachwear or souvenirs.

Best Beach for Unique Experience

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable beach experience in Florida, look no further than Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys. This stunning beach offers crystal clear waters and soft sand, but what sets it apart is the old Bahia Honda Bridge that runs parallel to the new bridge. The bridge is no longer in use for cars, but it provides a picturesque backdrop for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

In addition to the bridge, Bahia Honda State Park offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Take a hike or bike ride along the park’s trails, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the surrounding waters, or go on a snorkeling excursion to see the colorful marine life. The park also offers camping facilities if you want to spend more time in this beautiful location.

One thing to keep in mind is that Bahia Honda State Park can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot on the beach. But the stunning views and unique experience are well worth the effort. So why not pack your bags and head to Bahia Honda State Park for a one-of-a-kind beach adventure?

Best Beach for Great Nightlife

Looking for parties, bars and overall great nightlife, then South Beach is your place. This iconic beach destination in Miami Beach is known for its vibrant party atmosphere, with plenty of clubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from.

At night, South Beach comes alive with music, lights, and people from all over the world. You can dance the night away at one of the many nightclubs, enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar, or simply stroll along Ocean Drive and take in the sights and sounds.

But South Beach isn’t just about partying. During the day, you can soak up the sun on the beach, go for a swim in the ocean, or take a walk along the boardwalk. There are also plenty of shops and boutiques to explore, as well as art galleries and museums.

It is worth mentioning that some of the beaches has reported sharks.

Voted Best Beaches in Florida for 2023

Siesta Key

Siesta Key should be on your list of must-visit destinations and for a good reason. With crystal clear turquoise waters and soft, white sand that is 99% quartz, Siesta Key Beach has been named the #1 beach in America by Dr. Beach and TripAdvisor in the past.

One of the best things about Siesta Key Beach is that it’s accessible to everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a more active day on the beach, you’ll find it here. There are plenty of amenities, including lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. You can also rent chairs, umbrellas, and even cabanas if you want to make your day at the beach even more comfortable.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take part in a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, both on the beach and on the pier.

When you’re ready for a break from the sun, you can explore the nearby Siesta Key Village, which is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. You can also take a short drive to Sarasota to visit the Ringling Museum of Art or the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach is a must-visit destination. Located on the Northwest Coast of Florida, Santa Rosa Beach boasts clear, emerald-green water, miles of white-sand beaches, and unspoiled nature preserves.

One of the unique features of Santa Rosa Beach is its accessibility. The beach has great public access without steps, and open public showers and restrooms. During your visit, you can take advantage of the ambassadors on the beach to answer any questions you may have.

Santa Rosa Beach is also home to some of the best beaches in Florida. According to TripAdvisor, it has the top 5 beaches in the area. Some of the best beaches in Santa Rosa Beach include:

• Grayton Beach State Park
• Blue Mountain Beach
• Seaside Beach
• Gulf Place Beach
• Santa Rosa Beach

Each of these beaches offers something different, from pristine white sand to crystal-clear water. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax and enjoy the view, Santa Rosa Beach has a beach for you.

In addition to the beaches, Santa Rosa Beach also has a range of activities to keep you entertained. You can rent bikes and explore the scenic 30A bike trail, or take a fishing charter and try your luck at catching some local fish. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore, so you can make a day of it.

Marco Island

Marco Island is more than a single beach. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this Florida paradise boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. Here are some of the highlights:

South Beach

South Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Marco Island, and for good reason. With its soft white sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Plus, there are plenty of amenities nearby, including restaurants, bars, and shops.

Tigertail Beach

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, head to Tigertail Beach. This unspoiled stretch of sand is perfect for nature lovers, with plenty of opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. Plus, there are plenty of amenities available, including restrooms, showers, and a snack bar.

Sand Dollar Island

For a truly unique beach experience, head to Sand Dollar Island. This small, uninhabited island is only accessible by boat, but it’s well worth the trip. Here you’ll find some of the best shelling in the area, as well as plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.

Delray Beach

If you are looking for a beautiful beach with clear water and soft sand, Delray Beach is a great option. This beach is located in Palm Beach County and has been named as one of the top 10 beaches in Florida by the Travel Channel. In 2023, Trips to Discover included Delray Beach in its list of “15 Best Beaches with the Clearest Water in Florida.”

The beach is two miles long and has plenty of space for you to relax, play beach volleyball, or go for a swim. If you are interested in water activities, you can also surf, wind surf, paddleboard, snorkel, or sail at Delray Municipal Beach. Fishing is also a popular activity at the pier at Lake Ida.

If you want to take a break from the sun, you can explore the town’s vibrant downtown area. Atlantic Avenue runs through the center of town and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. You can also take an excursion to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, which pays tribute to Yamato, a colony formed by Japanese farmers that moved to the area.

Destin

Destin boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. Here are some of the top beaches you should check out when you’re in Destin:

Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit when you’re in Destin. This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. You can go swimming, sunbathing, and even camping at Henderson Beach State Park.

James Lee Park Beach

James Lee Park Beach is another great option in Destin. This beach has plenty of parking, making it easy to access. The water is calm, making it a great spot for families with young children. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas if you don’t want to bring your own.

Crystal Beach

Crystal Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. This beach has soft, white sand and clear blue water. You can rent jet skis, go parasailing, or just relax on the beach. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.

Miramar Beach

Miramar Beach is a great place to go if you’re looking for a quieter beach experience. This beach is known for its calm waters and soft sand. You can go for a walk along the beach or just relax and soak up the sun.

Grayton Beach State Park

Grayton Beach State Park is a bit further away from Destin, but it’s definitely worth the trip. This beach has been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. You can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or just relax on the beach.

Palm Beach

Palm Beach is located on the eastern coast of Florida and is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand.

One of the most popular attractions in Palm Beach is Worth Avenue, a high-end shopping district that boasts designer boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit or a delicious meal, Worth Avenue has something for everyone.

If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the Flagler Museum, which was once the home of railroad tycoon Henry Flagler. This stunning mansion is now a museum that showcases the Gilded Age of Florida.

For a more active experience, head to Palm Beach Water Sports, where you can rent jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards. You can also take a guided tour of the area’s mangrove forests and see some of Florida’s unique wildlife up close.

Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach is a fantastic family-friendly beach destination. This beach is known for its crystal clear emerald-green waters and soft, white sand. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.

One of the most popular beaches in the area is Okaloosa Island, which is located just off the coast of Fort Walton Beach. This beach is known for its calm waters, making it a great spot for families with young children. You can also rent paddleboards and kayaks to explore the bay.

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, head to Navarre Beach. This beach is located just a short drive from Fort Walton Beach and is known for its quiet, peaceful atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by sand dunes and sea oats, making it a beautiful spot for a picnic or a romantic sunset walk.

When it comes to dining, Fort Walton Beach has plenty of options to choose from. For a casual meal, head to The Crab Trap, which is located right on the beach. They serve up fresh seafood, burgers, and sandwiches. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, check out Marina Cafe. This restaurant offers stunning views of the harbor and serves up fresh seafood and steak.

St. George Island

If you’re looking for a secluded and serene beach getaway, look no further than St. George Island. Located off the coast of Florida’s panhandle, this 28-mile barrier island boasts 22 miles of tranquil, pet-friendly beaches, well-loved for sunning and shelling, swimming and fishing, and wildlife viewing.

St. George Island State Park is considered one of the top-ranked beach vacation spots in America, and for good reason. In 2023, it was crowned the best beach in the U.S. by Dr. Beach, a renowned coastal expert. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and camping, making it a perfect destination for families and adventure-seekers alike.

One of the unique features of St. George Island is its lack of high-rise buildings and commercial development. Instead, you’ll find quaint beach houses and locally-owned restaurants, creating a charming and laid-back atmosphere. The island also has a rich history, with evidence of early Native American settlements and Spanish explorers.

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is packed with fun and excitement. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach boasts some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in Florida.

One of the most popular features of Clearwater Beach is its lively atmosphere. With plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops, there’s always something to do on the beach. Whether you want to relax in the sun or take part in some water sports, Clearwater Beach has something for everyone.

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll love the family-friendly atmosphere of Clearwater Beach. The beach is packed with activities for kids of all ages, including playgrounds, water parks, and arcades. And with lifeguards on duty, you can relax knowing that your kids are safe while they play.

When it comes to accommodations, Clearwater Beach has plenty of options to choose from. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there’s something for every budget. And with so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay for your beach vacation.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a must-visit destination in Florida. This island chain, located in the Florida Keys, is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Islamorada has some of the best beaches in Florida, each with its own unique charm. Here are some of the best beaches you should visit:

• Anne’s Beach: Located at mile marker 73.5, Anne’s Beach is a pet-friendly and family-friendly beach that offers shallow waters and a boardwalk. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
• Founders Park: This popular beach among locals has many facilities, including an athletic field, Olympic-size swimming pool, marina, and beach. It’s a great spot for families with kids.

• Holiday Isle Beach: This beach is known for its soft sand and clear water. It’s a great place to relax, swim, and snorkel.

Amelia Island

Amelia Island boasts 13 miles of beautiful, white-sand beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a more active beach with plenty of amenities, you’re sure to find the perfect spot on Amelia Island.

While there are sharks in Amelia Island, the chances of running into one are very very low.

Some of the most popular beaches on Amelia Island include:

• Fernandina Beach: This is the main beach on Amelia Island and it’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. It’s also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and other amenities.

• Main Beach Park: This beach has plenty of amenities, including picnic areas, a playground, and volleyball courts. It’s also a popular spot for surfing and fishing.

• Peters Point Beachfront Park: This is a great spot for families, with plenty of parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. It’s also a popular spot for shelling and fishing.

Panama City Beach

If you’re looking for a beach destination that has it all, look no further than Panama City Beach! With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and endless activities, it’s no wonder that Panama City Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in Florida.

Panama City Beach is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. The most popular beaches in Panama City Beach include:

• Panama City Beach & Pier
• Shell Island
• Camp Helen State Park Beach
• St. Andrews State Park Beach
• Dog Beach
• Rick Stelzer Park

Key Largo

There is no way around it, Key Largo is a real tropical paradise with clear waters, white sand beaches, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Here are some of the best beaches in Key Largo that you should visit:

Far Beach

Far Beach is the first beach you’ll arrive at when driving into the Florida Keys via Key Largo. This beach is a great spot to relax and soak up the sun. The shallow water and huge palm trees make it one of the top beaches for visitors who want to unwind. Far Beach is also a good base for exploring the nearby John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a human-made beach located in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Largo Sound. It’s one of the most popular beaches in Key Largo, and for good reason. The beach is clean, the water is crystal clear, and the sand is soft and white. You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear to explore the nearby coral reefs.

Harry Harris Beach

Harry Harris Beach is a beautiful beach located in the northern part of Key Largo. This beach has plenty of amenities, including picnic tables, grills, and restrooms. The water is calm and shallow, making it a great spot for families with young children. You can also fish and snorkel here.