With over 1,300 miles of gorgeous shoreline, picking Florida’s best beaches can seem overwhelming. From secluded island getaways to pulsing party scenes, here are five can’t-miss hot spots to soak up the endless sun and surf.
Miami Beach
The glitz, glam, and Art Deco splendor of South Beach set the iconic standard. Take a stroll along Ocean Drive to admire pastel-hued architecture, ride a cruise along Millionaire’s Row or lounge on vibrantly colored cabanas alongside DJ-fueled pool parties. Don’t forget quintessential photo ops on those signature lifeguard stands! Nearby Bal Harbour and Sunny Isles beaches also dazzle with luxury resorts and shopping.
Siesta Key Public Beach
Consistently ranked one of the best beaches in America, this crescent-shaped stretch along Florida’s Gulf Coast delights with 99% pure quartz sand so fine it squeaks underfoot. The calm, clear waters offer superb swimming and snorkeling conditions for families. Stay until sunset when drum circles celebrate the daily spectacle.
Pensacola Beach
The Panhandle’s barrier island jewel stuns with 24 candid miles of powdery white sand and rolling dunes overlooking emerald waters. Visit the historic Beach Ball Water Tower before hitting popular spots like Casino Beach to soak up the scene. Drive east to discover a peaceful beach all your own.
Bahia Honda State Park
Accessible only by boat, this Florida Keys oasis transports you to island time with nature’s private playground. Snorkel an underwater forest, kayak silver sand flats, swim in the family-friendly calm, photograph the historic railroad bridge, or bike among swaying palms and mangroves.
Canaveral National Seashore
For wild Atlantic coastlines far from crowds, Canaveral delivers with over 14,000 undeveloped acres of dunes, lagoons, marshes, and mosquito lagoon. Surf-fish along empty beaches, observe sea turtle nests, hike oak hammock trails to vistas of NASA rocket launches across the water. The unspoiled refuge feels worlds away yet lies just north of Orlando.
With beach culture vibes ranging from hip to remote, beach bums uncover their own personal paradise along Florida’s glorious and varied shores. Dip your toes in at any of these can’t-miss coastal hot spots!