Florida is a state with more than 1,000 miles of coastline. It has several beaches, most of which are considered the most beautiful in the United States. When you think about seashores, Florida beaches are probably one of the first things that come to mind. After all, the Sunshine State is home to a series of beautiful beaches and bays that are perfect for a day trip.
One of the things Florida is most known for is the warm weather that is always good for a beach visit. If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, here are the 20 best beaches in Florida to visit.
Miami, Florida Beaches
The best part of visiting Miami beaches is that they are open to everyone. Miami provides some of the best beaches in Florida to suit all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a remote location, a famous tourist beach, or the best beaches in Florida for families, Miami is the place to go.
South Beach
Considering its luxury and amenities, it’s easy to understand why South Beach is so famous. It has a lively boardwalk and a wide variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and shopping.
You can find some of Miami’s top eateries, galleries, and exciting nightlife activities around South Beach. Many people put it at the top of Miami’s beach list and among the best beaches in Florida. They even use it as the standard to measure other Miami beaches.
To experience the best Miami offers, South Beach has to be included. This is one of the most famous beaches in Florida, and the locals refer to it as SoBe. It is the location where upscale modern design meets Art Deco architecture.
Additionally, you can very much get anything you need without leaving the beach. There are several businesses established directly on the sand.
Lummus Park
In the heart of Miami’s thriving Art Deco District, Lummus Park is a beautiful stretch of sand that is great for everyone. It is one of the best Florida beaches on Ocean’s Drive’s waters.
Lummus Park Beach is ideal for a stroll, beach volleyball, sunbathing, and sightseeing. You can also grab a bite at numerous beachside eateries across the street.
Many people consider Lummus Park a favorite out of numerous beaches in Florida for pictures and video shoots. The renovation of Lumus park in the 80s included grassy areas, pull-up bars, and palm trees to provide shade.
Additionally, Lummus Park Beach has restrooms, showers, and numerous lifeguard stations. You can have all your needs for a relaxing day met at this beach.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Beach
One of the most tranquil beaches in Florida is Miami’s Bill Baggs Beach in Cape Florida State Park. It has one of the most beautiful scenes from its sunny shores and is ideal for a family picnic.
Bill Baggs Beach has the best trails for biking and a relaxing afternoon along its coast. You can rent bicycles and quad bikes at their concession stand or go fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, or canoeing. You also don’t have to worry about going hungry as Bill Baggs has two restaurants on site.
In addition, Bill Baggs is one of the best beaches in Florida for sightseeing tours. You can go on guided tours in its historic lighthouse and the lighthouse keeper’s cottage.
South Pointe Park and Pier
South Park is one of the beaches in Florida that is well-known for attracting both locals and visitors. You will enjoy the overall ambiance and various activities available to every visitor.
To the south of this lively beach, you have access to a playground, picnic spots, and the famous South Pointe Park Pier, where you can watch cruise ships pass by. These features make it one of the best beaches in Florida.
South Pointe Park and Pier are among gorgeous Florida beaches with walking trails, grassy knolls, and expansive ocean vistas. It is situated at the southernmost point of Miami Beach. There is also a dog park, many places to sit throughout the park, and numerous works of art and light sculptures.
Bal Harbour Beach
Bal Harbor Beach is a picture-perfect location with its fine white sand and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop. It is also one of the most luxurious beaches in Florida.
Bal Harbour Beach has a welcoming jetty and a little pier that is great for fishing. Active individuals who come to the area to jog, stroll or ride bikes are drawn to the site by the Beach Walk trail nearby.
It is ideal for couples, families, residents, and tourists seeking a relaxing time. This is one of the gorgeous Florida beaches bordered to the north by the Haulover Inlet and to the south by Surfside at 96th Street. It provides a picturesque environment for soaking up the Florida sun.
Even though Bal Harbour Beach is accessible and available to everyone, those looking for a more upscale experience can choose to stay at one of the seaside hotels.
Where to Stay In Miami, Florida
There are several luxury hotels in Miami and numerous Florida beaches close to most of these hotels. Here are three popular hotels that visitors have enjoyed their stay.
People love Fortune House Hotel Suites for its massive rooms, friendly staff, and excellent room service. Also, check out the reputable brands of Wyndham Garden or Hilton Miami for their modern facilities and lovely reception.
Orlando, Florida Beaches
Due to its desert nature, Orlando doesn’t precisely have beaches in it. However, Orlando’s strategic location makes it simple to get to different stunning beaches in Florida, either the Atlantic or Gulf coasts.
There are many possibilities nearby. If you are taking a family vacation, some of the best beaches in Florida for families are actually close to Orlando.
Cocoa Beach
Orlando’s closest beach is Cocoa Beach. You can get to this stunning location on the spectacular Space Coast. It got its name due to its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
Cocoa Beach can be found an hour’s drive east of Orlando and boasts some of the most giant swells on the East Coast.
This is one of the best beaches in Florida for surfing. In fact, it is often called the surfing center of Florida. At Ron Jon Surf School or Cocoa Beach Surf Company, surfing enthusiasts can sign up for private, semi-private, or group lessons.
There are lots of activities for the whole family to enjoy, like riding bikes, surfing with boogie boards, and building sandcastles.
The 800-foot-long Space Coast of Florida pier is a historical landmark and a terrific site for families to go fishing. You can enjoy fresh Florida food, take in breathtaking ocean views, or catch some live entertainment.
New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna is yet another one of the beaches in Florida that is close to Orlando. Beyond its 17 miles of white sand, this charming town has much more to offer.
It has earned the nickname ”locals beach” because of its amusement park sanctuary. It is one of the best beaches in Florida because it often attracts many locals and tourists. You can also enjoy ancient ruins, modern cuisines, and a renowned art scene in New Smyrna.
Additionally, the waters at New Smyrna Beach attract numerous surfers regularly. You can choose to take a dip, walk along its beach sands, or even enjoy beach cycling right into the waves.
READ MORE: 15 BEST BEACHES IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA TO VISIT
Anna Maria Island
Two and a half hours from Orlando, the tranquil and natural Anna Maria Island welcomes tourists to relax into a calmer lifestyle.
This Island is on Florida’s Gulf Coast and is known for its expansive beaches, such as Manatee Beach Park. You can also visit the galleries, stores, and restaurants in Anna Maria’s small vacation town, Pine Avenue.
It has one of the most relaxing environments among all Florida beaches. You can also enjoy a day of swimming, fishing from the Rod and Reel Pier, or visit the Note Aquarium to see a variety of aquatic life species.
In addition, the on-site restaurant, Eliza Ann’s Coastal Kitchen, is a popular place for daily specials based on the local catch.
With the stringent laws governing the kind of structures permitted on the barrier island, it has retained its historic charm without any high-rise apartment buildings or hotel towers.
Daytona Beach
This stunning east coast beach can be ranked among the best beaches in Florida. With 23 miles of gorgeous sand and blue ocean, it is home to a vast promenade with lovely vistas, an arcade, and enjoyable activities for kids of all ages.
Daytona Beach is almost always bustling. If you prefer privacy, you won’t enjoy this location. But it’s regarded as one of the top family-friendly beaches in Florida.
This is the beach to visit any time of year for fun and celebrations. It is well-known for hosting the renowned Daytona 500 NASCAR race at Daytona International Speedway in February.
Clearwater Beach
One can’t mention Florida beaches that attract tourists and leave Clearwater Beach out. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this exotic beach has pristine white sands and clear waters that are perfect for swimming.
Clearwater Beach is also excellent for jet skiing, snorkeling, and parasailing. With palm trees and tropical plants along the beach, Clearwater Beach experiences nice weather all year. It is ranked as one of the best beaches in Florida and the United States for everyone.
Events such as fishing competitions and music festivals are only a few activities that make this beach ideal for families, couples, and anyone who loves an adventure.
Where To Stay In Orlando, Florida
If you plan to stay in Orlando and explore the best Florida beaches for a while, you should consider Hilton Grand Vacations Club. The well-equipped hotel has a bunch of amenities including bbq facilities and, managed by professional staff.
Tru By Hilton Orlando and Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort also have lovely pools and a child-friendly atmosphere that is great for families. Tru By Hilton even allows pets.
MORE BEACHES IN USA |
Tampa, Florida Beaches
Tampa has many beaches near its shores. The sunshine city, as it is popularly known, is close to many beaches that are open all year. There is a beach for everyone with miles of shoreline that range from busy beaches in Florida to isolated natural areas.
Ben T. Davis Beach
Ben T. Davis is a small beach that faces Tampa Bay and spans along the Courtney Campbell Trails. It is one of the city’s first beach attractions for visitors arriving through Tampa International Airport.
Ben T. Davis remains one of the best beaches in Florida for playing volleyball and watching the beautiful sunset. It is also the most famous public beach in the Tampa Bay area, lined with palm trees that serve as shade for beach lovers.
Locals love the beach because it’s only a short drive away. Parking is relatively inexpensive (costs around $0.55/hr). There are also barbecues and picnic tables. Bike, kayak, paddle board rentals, and public restrooms.
Fred Howard Park
Fred Howard Park sits among the fabulous Florida beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. This mile-long beach attracts a couple of million visitors every year. This shows how pleasant and popular the atmosphere is around Fred Howard Park.
This white sand beach is a perfect swimming spot and offers the ideal setting to have a great time. It provides amenities such as picnic shelters, beach showers, a windsurfing area, an area for kayaking or canoeing, playgrounds, a volleyball field, and public restrooms.
In a nature preserve, you also get to enjoy beautiful sights, including dolphins, manatees, eagles, and ospreys. It may not be the greatest, but it is one of the best Florida beaches.
READ MORE: 18 BEST BEACHES IN TAMPA FLORIDA TO VISIT
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is among the most beautiful beaches in Florida and Tampa Bay. This neighborhood is well-liked by the local LGBT community and welcomes visitors from all backgrounds.
On Treasure Island’s southernmost point, Sunset Beach is a beach-lovers haven. Its white sands and distinctive houses, and tiki huts are some of the amenities that make it stand out. There are also showers and a pavilion.
Many locals and tourists consider it one of the best Florida beaches for its peaceful atmosphere and dynamic community.
Apollo Beach Nature Preserve
Apollo Beach Nature Preserve stands out among the numerous Florida beaches because of its variety of marine life species.
However, this beach doesn’t have facilities for swimming. It is ideal for people who love hiking, picnicking and sunbathing. It has an observation tower accessible by wheelchairs and an excellent shoreline for fishing.
Apollo Beach also has public restrooms and facilities for bird watching. Though pets are allowed on this beach, they aren’t allowed on the observation tower. Nevertheless, it is one of the best beaches in Florida, even though swimming isn’t allowed.
Madeira Beach
Madeira Beach is yet another Florida beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Its nautical John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk attract visitors that want to go for a dip and soak up some sun.
There are many restaurants and stores around the beach. You will find several recreational opportunities, such as boating, sea turtle viewing, and visiting one of the many waterfront parks. If you visit at the right time, you can also enjoy the annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival in Madeira Beach.
However, the main attraction of this beach is fishing and a 1,100-foot boardwalk along the Intracoastal. There are many different family-friendly activities in the beach area. The entire area is home to some of the best Florida beaches.
Where To Stay In Tampa, Florida
Hampton Inn & Suites provides spacious and comfortable rooms. There’s also a vending machine for your favorite drinks; you can bring your pets along.
Also, Sailport Waterfront Suites has cooking facilities and a fantastic sunset view. People also love Hotel South Tampa & Suites for their comfortable rooms, great WiFi, and shuttle services.
Best Beaches In Florida For Families
Not all beaches are the same. Some are packed with families, others with surfers, and others with laid-back vacationers. Here are some of the best beaches in Florida for a family vacation, so you and your family can make the most of your trip to the Sunshine State.
Siesta Public Beach – Siesta Key
According to many people, Siesta Key is one of the best beaches in Florida and the whole US. Families love this beach, and it’s hardly surprising that even international travelers love it too.
Siesta key has eight miles of the world’s softest sand, composed of quartz from the Appalachian Mountains. The gentle waves and abundant sun make it great for anyone looking to relax and soak up some sun. You can hardly be bored at this beach.
There are ample activities and opportunities for a fun experience at Siesta Key. Like many other beaches in Florida, it has vast parking spaces, refreshment stands, free trolleys to move around the island, and beautiful vistas.
If you happen to be on Siesta Key on a Sunday night, you’ll be lured to the magnetic pulse of the Siesta Key Drum Circle, where belly dancers and tribal-style drummers may be seen.
For a multi-day vacation at Siesta Key, people love Kompose Boutique Hotel for its exceptional services and breathtaking views.
Manatee Public Beach – Manatee County
Manatee County Beach is one of the greatest and busiest beaches in Florida. Your family can enjoy a stroll along its shoreline and enjoy its picnic areas. The kids can have all the fun they want at its playgrounds.
Apart from the picturesque views from the Runway Skybridge, you can enjoy other amenities, including bike racks, gift shops, restrooms, showers, beach volleyball, and concessions.
You can also book a dolphin-watching tour, go ziplining, go treasure hunting with your kids, or visit the Florida Maritime Museum to see how ships are constructed. It is simply one of the best Florida beaches for a beautiful family experience.
There are many luxury hotels around Manatee County and Bradenton Gulf Islands. Compass Hotel is a well-rated accommodation, particularly for families, and is also welcoming to any furry companions.
Delray Beach – Palm Beach County
Families should stop at the Pineapple Grove Arts District on their journey to Delray Beach along the Southeast Coast. The Cornell Art Museum, which features modern art displays, is not far from Delray.
You and your family can enjoy a day of leisure and fun activities In Downtown Delray Beach. A two-mile stretch of immaculate beach sand awaits you alongside many other tourists and visitors. Like many other Florida beaches, Delray Beach is just a short distance from the many unique eateries, shops, art galleries, bars, and restaurants that line Atlantic Avenue.
Families, visitors, and tourists love Hyatt Place, and it’s no surprise. Not only does it cater to the exquisite taste, but it is also pet-friendly and is only a mile away from Delray Beach.
Deerfield Beach – Broward County
Deerfield Beach gets its name from a type of deer that was once regularly seen on its shores. Its stunning sapphire-blue waters are one of the things that make it stand out among other beaches in Florida.
It is one of Florida’s top gulf coast beaches and was given the nickname “Blue Wave Beach” for being among the country’s cleanest and greenest beaches.
Besides swimming in its refreshing waters, you can also go for outdoor fun with bumper cars, trampoline bungees, and rope climbing, just like on other Florida beaches.
You and your family can stay at Tru By Hilton, Fort Lauderdale for a beautiful experience. At the same time, you can visit other beaches around Broward County.
St. Augustine Beach – St. Augustine
A little town on Anastasia Island called St. Augustine Beach is well-known for its expansive beaches that face the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Florida.
Families can go fishing or have a splash (with a splash pad for kids) at St. Augustine Beach, which also has a beachside park with playground equipment and volleyball courts.
St. Augustine Beach offers all the amenities you could want for the perfect beach getaway. You can get bright lodgings, warm-weather dining options, a beachfront park with a noteworthy fishing pier, a sizable pavilion, and a splash park.
Like a host of the best beaches in Florida, you can pick from a wide variety of activities for you and your family.
Whether you want a hotel or condo, there’s something for you in St. Augustine. Castillo Real, Ascend Hotel Collection has all the facilities for a pleasant stay in the city, including amenities for beach-related activities.
Enjoying The Best Beaches In Florida
Many of us are looking for a fun way to get out of the house and enjoy the sunshine. Instead of heading to the crowded theme parks or an outdoor music festival, why not head to the beach?
There are tons of great beaches in Florida, and some of them are off the beaten path. Many are even considered famous landmarks in Florida.
You don’t have to travel far to find the best beaches in Florida. From the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the white sands of the Atlantic, there are a lot of great options for you in Florida.