Sure, Southern Florida has Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood Beach. And there's Naples and Marco Island. I love beaches with a busy vibe, like Miami which I write about as often as I can.
But here I want to share some lesser known spots that I've enjoyed over the years. These Southern Florida beaches are some of the most secluded. Be prepared with plenty of water to stay hydrated, and snacks.
Best Beaches in Southern Florida:
1. Walk along scenic nature trails in Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park
Rating: ★★★★★
Lets start 20 minutes north of Naples on the Gulf coast at Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park.
I love the undisturbed barrier island setting of this sugar-sand beach. It's one of the last remaining undeveloped barrier islands on Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast. You should go see it while it's still so pristine!
The parking area has just under 100 spaces which tells you a lot! Even in high season, the beach is quite empty. Though you have to arrive early for a parking spot!
You really need to bring your own essentials here: water, sunscreen, snacks. There are freshwater showers and portable toilets you can use.
You need to pay $10 for parking but beach access is free. Dogs are not allowed.
How to Get to Barefoot Beach Preserve:
From I-75, take Exit 116 and head west on Bonita Beach Road. Turn left onto Barefoot Beach Boulevard and follow signs to the park entrance and access point.2. Kayak through mangroves at Cayo Costa State Park
Another personal favorite on the Gulf coast is Cayo Costa State Park.
You'll find it on a barrier island that protects the Charlotte Harbor Estuary. It remains one of Florida’s untouched coastal treasures. You can only reach it by private boat, kayak, or passenger ferry.
There are nine miles of undeveloped shoreline to love! Birdwatching is wonderful, as is snorkeling and swimming.
You can bike on interior trails through through pine forests, mangroves, and oak hammocks that shelter native wildlife.
If you want to spend the night, you can pitch a tent or book a rustic cabin.
Pay a $2 per person fee to visit. Bring exact change and use the honor box).
Be careful not to disturb sea turtles nesting from May through October.
Cost:
Ferry service from Punta Gorda, Pine Island, or Captiva is available. Rates vary, starting at $35 per person. Book in advance!Distance:
The island is located west of Pine Island and north of Captiva Island. Approximately a 30–60 minute boat ride depending on launch point.How to Get to Cayo Costa State Park:
Accessible only by private boat, kayak, or passenger ferry. Popular ferry departure points include Bokeelia, Punta Gorda, and Captiva. Once on the island, follow the signs to the beach.3. Spot wildlife at Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge
My favorite spot on the Atlantic coast? Take a look at Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge on Jupiter Island!
Discover a largely unmarked public beach with untouched sandy stretches.
There are miles of unspoiled shoreline to explore here!
There are no entrance or parking fees. But there are also no concessions or rentals available. I always run out of water so make sure you bring enough!
Respect wildlife habitats and nesting areas. Remove everything you bring in to help preserve this wonderful place.
Distance:
Located at the northern end of Jupiter Island. Approximately 10 miles south of Stuart. 35 miles north of West Palm Beach.How to Get to Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge:
From US-1, take Bridge Road east through the town of Hobe Sound and across the Intracoastal Waterway. Follow the beachfront road south along Jupiter Island until it ends at the refuge entrance.Plan Your Trip