Beaches in Florida
Florida is home to some of the best beaches in the United States, and they’ve become some of my favorite spots for sunshine, relaxation, and fun.
There’s something about Florida that keeps calling me back, not just the sun or the sand, but the way each beach town feels like its own little world. From quiet shores where time slows down to colorful boardwalks buzzing with energy, every stop gave me something unexpected. I’ve been covering Florida beach travel for 30 years, which makes me a true expert.
I set out looking for simple days by the water. What I found was more layered: stillness, surprise, flavor, and a reminder that joy can sneak up on you when you're barefoot and salt-kissed.
From the Atlantic coast to the Gulf of Mexico, Florida delivers the best mix of soft sand, clear waters, and lively beach towns, along with unique and sometimes underrated stretches of shoreline that make every visit unforgettable.
Whether you’re walking the best sands of Clearwater Beach, enjoying the unique island vibes of Key West, or discovering the underrated charm of places like Amelia Island and Sanibel, Florida’s beaches never disappoint. That’s why they’re consistently ranked among the best in the country, and why they’ve become some of my favorite escapes year after year.
The best part is the variety: family-friendly beaches, romantic coastal getaways, and hidden natural treasures. Think swimming in the warm Gulf, the best surfing on the Atlantic, and unique sunsets that paint the sky in unforgettable colors. These details are what make Florida’s beaches both unique and some of the best you’ll ever experience.
With thousands of miles of shoreline, it’s easy to plan the best kind of trip, whether you want a lively boardwalk, a quiet island escape, or a mix of both. Florida truly offers the best options for every kind of beach lover.
Which Florida beach will you choose? If you’re searching for the best blend of fun, scenery, and unforgettable memories, these beaches deliver. They’re not just shorelines, they’re the best, sometimes underrated, always unique, and forever some of my favorite places in the Sunshine State.
Best Beaches in Florida:
Morning calm on Key Biscayne
I drove 7 miles southeast of downtown Miami (about 20 minutes over the Rickenbacker Causeway, $2.25 toll) to Key Biscayne, a barrier island town with about 14,000 residents.
Key Biscayne has quickly become one of my favorite beaches in Florida, and every visit feels like discovering a hidden gem just minutes away from downtown Miami.
I love how the drive over the Rickenbacker Causeway feels like a dream escape, with sparkling water on both sides and the promise of something spectacular at the end.
When I arrive, the beach is usually quiet and underrated compared to Miami Beach, which makes it feel more affordable, accessible, and absolutely perfect for a family or romantic weekend getaway.
The sand here is soft, the water is calm, and the views of the Miami skyline in the distance are simply the coolest sight you can imagine while relaxing by the ocean.
One of my favorite spots is Crandon Park, where I find shaded picnic areas, nature trails, and even a chance to spot unique wildlife like iguanas and seabirds.
I always think Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is the absolute best part of Key Biscayne, especially with its historic lighthouse that adds such a unique and interesting backdrop to any beach day.
Every time I climb the lighthouse, I’m rewarded with one of the most amazing panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and downtown Miami—it’s pure magic.
What I love most is that Key Biscayne feels both vibrant and peaceful, giving me the excitement of adventure but also the joy of total relaxation.
For me, this underrated island is the coolest weekend idea near Miami, and every visit feels like a brilliant reminder of why Florida’s beaches are the best.
Spring energy on Daytona Beach
We drove 55 miles northeast from Orlando (about 1 hour on I-4) to Daytona Beach. Nicknamed the “World’s Most Famous Beach,” it’s one of the few places in the U.S. where cars are still allowed to drive right on the sand ($20 daily beach pass).
Daytona Beach has always felt like one of the most exciting and vibrant stretches of sand on Florida’s Atlantic coast, and every time I visit I discover something new to love.
Located just about an hour northeast of Orlando, it’s the perfect affordable weekend getaway for families, couples, or anyone looking for that cool mix of relaxation and entertainment.
I think the best part of Daytona Beach is its unusual hard-packed sand—you can actually drive right on the beach, which makes it one of the most unique and interesting coastal experiences in Florida.
Every time I roll my windows down and cruise along the shoreline, I feel like I’m part of something both historic and magical, since this tradition goes back to the early days of car racing here.
The Daytona Beach Pier and Boardwalk are my favorite spots to wander, with arcades, rides, and local eateries creating a joyful, carnival-like atmosphere that’s perfect for families.
When I want something a little more relaxing, I stretch out on the 23 miles of spectacular sand and just listen to the waves—it’s one of the coolest feelings in the world.
For me, the combination of beach fun and exciting attractions like the Daytona International Speedway makes this destination truly one-of-a-kind.
Whether I’m chasing thrills or seeking a laid-back escape, Daytona Beach always feels like the absolute best idea for a Florida getaway, full of energy, charm, and unforgettable memories.
Stillness by the Shore in Mexico Beach
We drove 25 miles southeast of Panama City (about 35 minutes) to Mexico Beach.
Mexico Beach is one of those hidden gems on Florida’s Gulf Coast that I always think of when I want a peaceful and affordable beach escape far from the big crowds.
Located about 25 miles southeast of Panama City, this small seaside town feels like stepping into a dream where life slows down and the simple joys of the ocean take center stage.
I love how the sand here is sugar-white, the water is a spectacular shade of emerald green, and the whole beach has an underrated, laid-back charm that makes it my favorite spot for a family or romantic weekend getaway.
Every time I visit, I feel this cool sense of nostalgia because Mexico Beach still holds on to that “Old Florida” vibe—quiet streets, friendly locals, and cozy beachfront cottages that feel unique and welcoming.
One of the best things about this beach is that it’s never overcrowded, so I can stretch out, walk for miles, and soak up the magic of the Gulf without interruption.
My favorite moments are watching the sunsets here—the horizon lights up with vibrant colors, and it always feels like an exceptional and joyful way to end the day.
Even after Hurricane Michael, the community rebuilt with such resilience, and every return visit feels even more meaningful and inspiring to me.
For me, Mexico Beach is one of the absolute best underrated spots in Florida, a brilliant idea for anyone who loves cool, quiet, and spectacular seaside getaways.
Naples: Gulf Elegance & Sunset Stillness
Naples is a gateway to wild Florida. Just 30 miles east lies Big Cypress National Preserve and the western edge of Everglades National Park.
Naples Beach on Florida’s southwest coast is one of my favorite places for a dreamy and spectacular Gulf Coast getaway, and every visit feels like a hidden treasure waiting to be rediscovered.
Located about two hours west of Miami, this stretch of sand is the absolute best if you’re looking for an affordable yet luxurious-feeling beach escape with calm waters and unforgettable sunsets.
I love how the beach feels vibrant and joyful during the day, with families building sandcastles, couples strolling hand in hand, and locals fishing off the iconic Naples Pier.
The pier itself is one of the coolest spots to watch dolphins play in the water, and every time I walk along it, I feel this exciting mix of peace and wonder.
What makes Naples Beach stand out for me is how clean, wide, and underrated it is compared to busier Florida beaches—it’s truly one of the best gems on the Gulf.
I always think the sunsets here are pure magic, painting the sky with vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple, and it’s easily my favorite way to end the day.
For a unique experience, I love exploring nearby Fifth Avenue South, where the blend of restaurants, shops, and charming architecture makes the whole getaway even more exceptional.
To me, Naples Beach is the perfect mix of romance, family fun, and cool coastal charm, making it one of the most amazing and unforgettable destinations in all of Florida.
Time Travel in Cedar Key
I drove 130 miles north of Tampa (about 2 hours 30 minutes) to Cedar Key, a tiny Gulf Coast town of roughly 700 residents.
Cedar Key is one of those truly underrated gems on Florida’s Gulf Coast that I always find myself dreaming about when I need a peaceful, affordable, and unusual getaway.
Located about an hour southwest of Gainesville, this small island town feels like stepping back in time, and I love how its quiet charm sets it apart from Florida’s busier beaches.
Every time I arrive, I feel the magic of the place—the colorful cottages, the laid-back vibe, and the way the Gulf of Mexico seems to stretch endlessly in front of me.
The beach itself is smaller than others in Florida, but that’s what makes it so unique and cool—it’s less about crowds and more about finding joy in nature, relaxation, and those spectacular sunsets.
One of my favorite things to do here is rent a kayak and paddle through the islands just offshore, where I can spot dolphins, pelicans, and even the occasional manatee—it’s such an exciting and brilliant idea for a family or romantic weekend trip.
I also love walking through the historic downtown, where local shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants create a vibrant and interesting atmosphere that perfectly complements the quiet beachside charm.
The sunsets here are some of the absolute best I’ve ever seen—each one feels magical, with the sky lighting up in colors that seem almost too spectacular to be real.
For me, Cedar Key is a hidden paradise, the coolest escape for anyone who wants a slower pace, breathtaking nature, and the most unforgettable small-town Florida experience.
Delray Beach: Bright Mornings & Breezy Bites
We drove 50 miles north from Miami (about 1 hour on I-95) to Delray Beach, a lively Atlantic coastal city of roughly 66,000 residents.
Delray Beach has to be one of my absolute favorite spots on Florida’s Atlantic coast, and every visit feels like an exciting mix of small-town charm and vibrant beach life.
Located between Boca Raton and West Palm Beach, it’s in such a cool spot—close to everything, yet it still feels like a hidden gem when I sink my toes into the sand.
I love how the beach stretches wide and beautiful, with soft golden sand and gentle waves that make it perfect for both family fun and romantic weekends.
Every time I visit, I find the atmosphere joyful and welcoming, with locals and travelers coming together to enjoy one of Florida’s most underrated coastal experiences.
The best part for me is how Delray combines beach relaxation with an awesome downtown scene—Atlantic Avenue is lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops that keep the energy alive long after the sun goes down.
I always think of Delray Beach as the perfect balance: it has the cool, laid-back ocean vibe but also the exciting nightlife and cultural events that make every trip feel unique.
One of my favorite things to do is grab a coffee in the morning, stroll down the avenue, and then head straight to the beach for a dreamy day in the sun.
For me, Delray Beach is truly one of the best destinations in South Florida—exceptional sunsets, spectacular vibes, and a brilliant idea for anyone craving a coastal getaway with a little bit of everything.
Santa Rosa Beach Serenity & Soft Horizon
We drove 20 miles east of Destin (about 35 minutes on US-98) to Santa Rosa Beach.
Santa Rosa Beach is one of my favorite hidden gems on Florida’s Emerald Coast, and every time I go it feels like stepping into a dream filled with sugar-white sand and sparkling turquoise water.
Located along scenic Highway 30A near Destin and Panama City Beach, this area has such a unique charm that makes it one of the coolest and most underrated beach getaways in the state.
I love how the beach stretches wide and peaceful, giving me plenty of space to relax, walk for miles, or just soak in the magic of the Gulf without distraction.
What makes Santa Rosa Beach so exceptional is that it blends natural beauty with a vibrant community—nearby you’ll find art galleries, cool local shops, and amazing dining that make the trip unforgettable.
One of my favorite things to do here is explore the nearby Grayton Beach State Park, where the trails, dunes, and rare coastal dune lakes create such a unique and exciting outdoor adventure.
Every evening, I always stay to watch the sunset, because the colors are spectacular, lighting up the sky with shades of gold and pink that feel pure magic to me.
I think Santa Rosa Beach is also one of the best ideas for a family or romantic weekend—affordable, joyful, and full of those small details that make memories last forever.
For me, Santa Rosa Beach is the absolute best mix of tranquility and charm, a brilliant Florida coastal escape that always leaves me wanting to come back again.
Far Beach, Florida Keys
I drove 60 miles south of Miami (about 1 hour on US-1) to Key Largo, home of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (the first underwater park in the U.S., established 1963). Inside the park, I found Far Beach , a small, family-friendly stretch of sand lined with palms and calm turquoise water.
Far Beach in the Florida Keys has to be one of my favorite underrated gems, tucked away inside John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo.
What I love most is that it feels so different from many other Florida beaches—this is a dreamy, quiet stretch with calm, shallow waters that make it absolutely perfect for families or a romantic getaway.
Every time I walk along the soft sand and see the palm trees swaying, I feel that magic “island time” vibe that makes the Keys so unique and unforgettable.
I think the coolest part about Far Beach is how affordable and accessible it is—just an hour south of Miami, yet it feels like I’ve traveled to a whole new world.
Snorkeling here is one of my favorite activities, because the park protects vibrant coral reefs and marine life, giving me an exciting and unusual way to spend the day right off the shore.
When I just want to relax, I love spreading out under the shade of the palms and listening to the gentle waves—it’s a joyful and spectacular escape from the busier Keys spots.
Every sunset I’ve seen at Far Beach feels like pure magic, with the water glowing in shades of orange and pink, and it always becomes the highlight of my trip.
For me, Far Beach is one of the absolute best ideas in the Florida Keys—cool, peaceful, and filled with the kind of natural beauty that makes every visit exceptional.
Anne’s Beach, Islamorada: Walkways Over Water
I drove 77 miles south of Miami (about 1 hour 40 minutes on US-1) to Islamorada, where Anne’s Beach offers a free, low-key slice of the Keys. Named after local environmentalist Anne Eaton, the beach has shallow, calm waters perfect for wading.
Anne’s Beach in Islamorada is a hidden gem in the Florida Keys, and every time I visit it feels like stepping into a peaceful dream along the Overseas Highway.
Located at Mile Marker 73, this unusual and underrated beach is shallow, calm, and perfect for wading, making it one of the best destinations for a family-friendly or romantic getaway.
I love how the wooden boardwalk winds through mangroves and leads to little sandy coves—it’s such a cool and unique feature that makes exploring the shoreline feel exciting and fresh.
Every time I walk out into the crystal-clear water, I’m amazed by how far you can go without it getting deep, which creates a spectacular, playful vibe that’s both relaxing and joyful.
My favorite moments are at the picnic pavilions right on the sand, where I can sit in the shade, enjoy a simple lunch, and watch the vibrant turquoise water sparkle—it feels like pure magic.
What makes Anne’s Beach so exceptional is its affordable simplicity—no giant resorts or heavy crowds, just the natural beauty of Islamorada shining in the most peaceful way.
I think it’s one of the coolest stops on a Keys road trip, offering a brilliant chance to stretch, relax, and soak up the ocean views in a unique and memorable setting.
For me, Anne’s Beach is one of the best reminders that sometimes the smallest and most underrated spots create the most unforgettable Florida experiences.
Vero Beach: Gentle Waves & Unspoiled Quiet
I drove 95 miles southeast of Orlando (about 1 hour 45 minutes via I-95) to Vero Beach, a coastal city of roughly 17,000 residents on Florida’s Treasure Coast.
Vero Beach has always felt like one of Florida’s most underrated treasures, and every time I go I’m struck by its unique mix of small-town charm and spectacular oceanfront beauty.
Located along the Treasure Coast about halfway between Cocoa Beach and West Palm Beach, it’s the perfect affordable getaway for families, couples, or anyone who loves a quieter coastal vibe.
I love how the beach itself stretches wide with soft golden sand and gentle waves—it’s calm enough for swimming yet exciting enough for surfing on the right days.
My favorite spot is around South Beach Park, where the atmosphere is cool, laid-back, and never overcrowded, making it such a joyful place to unwind for the weekend.
What makes Vero Beach stand out for me is its vibrant cultural side—there are art galleries, museums, and unique local shops that give the town an interesting and exceptional energy beyond the shoreline.
Every time I visit, I make sure to enjoy fresh seafood at one of the oceanfront restaurants, which always feels like a brilliant idea after a day in the sun.
The sunsets here are spectacular, painting the sky with magical colors that make evenings on the sand feel dreamy and unforgettable.
For me, Vero Beach is one of the coolest Florida coastal escapes—a hidden gem where natural beauty, culture, and relaxation come together to create an amazing and memorable experience.
Conclusion
After exploring so many of Florida’s beaches—from the vibrant energy of Daytona to the hidden magic of Cedar Key, the dreamy calm of Far Beach, and the spectacular sunsets in Naples and Vero—I’ve realized each one offers its own unique charm and unforgettable experience.
Some are lively and exciting, others are peaceful and underrated, but all are gems in their own way, perfect for family trips, romantic weekends, or simply a joyful day by the water.
For me, the absolute best part of Florida’s coastline is the variety—you can find cool, unusual spots like Anne’s Beach in Islamorada, discover cultural treasures near Vero, or just soak in the pure magic of sunsets along the Gulf.
No matter which destination you choose, every beach has something spectacular to offer, and each visit feels like a brilliant reminder of why Florida is one of the most amazing coastal getaways in the world.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
