Florida is the perfect vacation destination for beach lovers and sun chasers alike. Its 650 miles of sandy, shelly coastline makes it a paradise to explore with endless possibilities. From the Gulf Coast and Panhandle to the Florida Keys and up the Atlantic Coast, there are some truly spectacular beaches in this state.
To help you decide where to go on your next adventure, we have gathered information about some of the best beaches in Florida based on sand quality, water clarity, water temperature, busyness level, surrounding views, and cost.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot or an action-packed beach day with family or friends – Florida has something for everyone!
Here are our top 12 favorite beaches in Florida:
South Beach
South Beach is the quintessential Floridian beach. Located in Miami, it’s arguably one of the most famous beaches in America due to its wild nightlife scene and trendy shops and restaurants.
Despite all this activity, the beach itself is surprisingly spacious with stretches of golden sand along miles of shoreline that are perfect for people-watching or just relaxing away from the crowds.
Whether you’re looking for a place to party or somewhere to chill out and get some sun, South Beach has got something for everyone!
Navarre Beach
Navarre Beach is the perfect beach for those looking for a more secluded, laid-back beach experience. The sand here is incredibly soft and powdery white, making it ideal for walking barefoot along the shoreline.
The waters are crystal clear and perfect for swimming – you can even spot dolphins swimming near the shore!
There’s plenty of parking available in town or at one of the nearby public lots so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot. And while it may be closer to Destin than other beaches in Florida, Navarre Beach has far fewer tourists meaning there’s much more room to spread out and enjoy your time on this beautiful beach.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park (Fort Taylor)
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park (also known as Fort Taylor) is the perfect place for beach-goers to explore and enjoy. This state park proudly contains a historic fort, making it an interesting destination for history buffs as well!
Additionally, snorkeling enthusiasts will love the crystal-clear waters that make up this beach paradise. For those looking to relax, there are plenty of options; from lounging in the sun on comfortable chairs to picnicking with family and friends, or even renting beach chairs for extra comfort.
It’s no wonder why Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is considered the best beach in Key West! Admission fees into this destination are quite affordable at just $7 per two people – making it definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in the area!
Captiva Beach
Captiva Beach is a clean and pristine beach located in Florida. It has white powdery sand that is softer than the sand found at its neighboring Sanibel Island Beach, which is better known for its abundance of shells. Parking can be an issue as it tends to get expensive, however, this area offers more luxurious amenities such as tennis courts and shops, making it popular with those who enjoy the finer things in life.
St. Augustine Beach
St. Augustine Beach is the perfect place to spend a day in the Florida sunshine! Drive your truck on its sandy beach, fish in the nearby waters, or just relax with friends and family. With plenty of restaurants and shops around, it’s easy to make a full day out of exploring this incredible spot.
If you’re looking for something more serene, Vilano Beach is also only 20 minutes away – enjoy a peaceful stroll along its quiet shores or take part in one of its many water activities like kayaking and fishing.
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, St Augustine Beach has something for everyone!
Cape Florida and Key Biscayne Beach
Key Biscayne Beach is a great alternative to the hustle and bustle of Miami. Located on an island, it offers a tranquil escape from the city. The beach has crystal clear waters and soft white sand that provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation.
And if you want to explore more than just the beach, there’s something for everyone here. Take in stunning views of downtown Miami while standing at the top of Cape Florida Lighthouse or take a leisurely stroll through Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park where you can find ancient Tequesta Indian shell mounds and other historical sites. No matter what your interests are, Key Biscayne Beach is sure to have something for everyone!
Destin Beach
Destin, located in the panhandle of Florida, is a popular tourist destination and one of the most affluent areas in the state. The Emerald Coast here features stunning turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or any other beach activity you could think of.
Parking options near Destin’s beaches are surprisingly plentiful and relatively inexpensive compared to other beach towns in Florida. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or an extended vacation spot, Destin has something for everyone!
Bowman’s Beach
Bowman’s Beach is the perfect spot for shell collectors looking to explore Sanibel Island. The beach has plenty of amenities, including restrooms and showers, to ensure visitors have a comfortable experience. It also boasts an incredibly picturesque landscape with gentle waves lapping against the shoreline.
However, parking can be a bit pricey at $5 per hour so plan accordingly if you’re planning on visiting for extended periods of time. Whether you’re simply enjoying the view or searching for special shells, Bowman’s Beach is definitely worth checking out!
Pass-a-Grille Beach
Pass-a-Grille Beach, located on St. Pete Beach in Florida, is a great place to relax and take in the beautiful sunset. The atmosphere here is very laid-back, making it an ideal spot for stress relief and relaxation.
Parking at Pass-a-Grille is free of charge so you don’t have to worry about spending money on parking when you visit the beach. Additionally, this beach isn’t too crowded which makes for a more peaceful experience with fewer people around.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just want to spend some quality time alone with nature, Pass-a-Grille should be top of your list!
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with its stunning white sand and crystal clear blue waters. It can get crowded on the weekends and during peak season, but there are plenty of amenities to keep you entertained.
From parasailing and jet skiing to beach volleyball courts, stand-up paddle boarding rentals, or simply lounging in the sun – Clearwater Beach has something for everyone!
And if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some shopping opportunities nearby, Pier 60 Park offers an array of restaurants and boutiques that will surely please all tastes.
Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach is located in the panhandle of Florida and is known for its stunning white, sugar-like sand and clear blue waters. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike who come to take advantage of the many amenities and activities offered here.
There are plenty of restaurants, bars, shops, water sports equipment rentals, fishing charters, and more! However, one downside can be the difficulty with parking at peak times as lots tend to fill up quickly during the summer months.
Fortunately, there are other options available such as ride-sharing services or taking public transportation from nearby cities like Pensacola or Gulf Breeze.
Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Florida. With its white sands and clear waters, it’s no wonder it’s a popular destination for beach-goers all year round. Though the beach can get quite crowded during peak season, there are plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy – from swimming and snorkeling to parasailing and jet skiing!
There are also many high-rise buildings in the area that provide guests with comfortable accommodations as well as breathtaking views of the ocean. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the sand or an action-packed vacation filled with adventure, Panama City Beach is sure to deliver!
Florida has some of the most stunning beaches in the world perfect for anyone who loves spending time outdoors and exploring new beaches.
Whether you’re looking for an isolated island getaway or an active boardwalk experience, Florida has something for everyone. So make sure to explore these amazing beaches and all they have to offer!