10 Best Beaches in Florida
I've been to Florida countless times over my career as a travel writer and lived there for two months as a local, but I also wanted to get a fresh perspective traveling with a teenager. We just got back from a 10-day vacation where we re-visited many of my favorite beach vacation spots (and added new ones). Florida has so many incredible options, from busy beaches with many restaurants and activities to calm, secluded spots. My son is a teenager now and I wanted to see which ones we would enjoy together the most and put together this new, fresh guide.
I always appreciate how easy it is to get to Florida, with major airports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Key West International, Orlando or Clearwater landing you just minutes from the beach. Quick transfers are a big plus with a cranky teenager who can't be without his phone talking to his friends for long. Enjoy this updated guide for planning your beach vacation to Florida.
1. Key Biscayne
Welcome to Key Biscayne, Miami’s island escape. Just across the Rickenbacker Causeway from the bustle of downtown, this barrier island feels worlds away.
I thought that Key Biscayne was one of the best beaches in Florida. Why? The turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay on one side and the wide-open Atlantic on the other give the island its breezy, tropical feeling.
For a few days, we settled into this quiet slice of Miami-Dade to soak in its natural beauty. Two parks anchor each end of the island: Crandon Park with its calm lagoons and stretches of sandy beach, and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, home to one of the oldest lighthouses in Florida and plenty of trails to explore.
- Best Airport: Miami International (MIA)
- How Many Days: 2–3 for the island itself
- Time of Year to Visit: November–April
You can stay at luxury resorts like the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami or a cheaper vacation rental that's not right on the beach but more affordable.
There's plenty of great food to eat too. Grab Cuban sandwiches at La Boulangerie Boul’Mich, seafood at Rusty Pelican, or a laid-back meal at Milanezza. Get gelato from Bianco after a day at the beach.
Days in Key Biscayne naturally revolve around the water. Paddleboarding through the mangroves of Crandon Park or kayaking in Biscayne Bay is a must-do for spotting wildlife up close. Miami Seaquarium just over the bridge is a must see for kids!
For us, the highlights were climbing the Cape Florida Lighthouse and when our son was little he liked the gentle shallows at Crandon’s beachside playground. Key Biscayne was the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, all within easy reach of Miami, truly one of the best beach vacations in Florida!
2. Daytona Beach
Just an hour northeast of Orlando, Daytona Beach is a legendary beach town that, to me, balances high-energy excitement with laid-back coastal charm and is home to the best beaches in Florida. Known worldwide for its wide, hard-packed shoreline where cars can still cruise along the sand, Daytona offers both a sense of nostalgia and endless seaside fun.
On one end, you’ll find the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, lined with classic amusements, arcades, and oceanfront dining. On the other, Ponce Inlet provides a more natural escape and Florida’s tallest lighthouse.
- Best Airport: Daytona Beach International (DAB) — right in town, or Orlando International (MCO) about an hour away
- How Many Days: 3–4 to enjoy the beach, boardwalk, and nearby attractions
- Time of Year to Visit: March–May and September–November
Oceanfront resorts like the Daytona Grande and 4-star Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort where we spent three nights put you right on the sand with pools overlooking the waves and easy boardwalk access. For a quieter stay, head south toward Ponce Inlet.
Dining here is as varied as the crowd it attracts. Seafood lovers can’t miss Ocean Deck Beach Club, a Daytona staple for fresh catches and live music right on the sand. For a casual breakfast or lunch, locals swear by Crabby Joe’s on Sunglow Pier, where you can dine over the water.
Days in Daytona Beach are built around its 23 miles of shoreline. Whether you’re driving along the packed sand, renting a bike, or just laying out under the sun, the beach itself is the main attraction. Away from the surf, families will love the arcades and rides along the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier. Motorsport fans can’t miss a tour of Daytona International Speedway or catching a race when in season.
3. Cedar Key
I think that Cedar Key is one of the best beaches in Florida. Why? Cedar Key is Florida’s quiet Gulf Coast hideaway. Perched on a cluster of small islands about an hour southwest of Gainesville, this historic fishing village feels worlds away from the bustle of modern life.
Traveling with our teenager, we loved how the town’s mix of nature, history, and low-key adventures kept everyone entertained without the crowds.
The small downtown hugs the waterfront, filled with seafood shacks, art galleries, and a relaxed boardwalk vibe. Just offshore, Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge offers trails and wildlife viewing, while the town’s historic district gives a glimpse into Florida’s past.
- Best Airport: Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV), about 1 hour away; Tampa (TPA) is another option at 2.5 hours
- How Many Days: 2–3 for a relaxed visit
- Time of Year to Visit: Fall through spring (October–April)
We checked into Cedar Key Harbour Master Suites for two days and it gave us a great base for exploring and relaxing.
Families can enjoy casual meals at Tony’s Seafood (home to award-winning clam chowder), laid-back waterfront bites at Steamers, or fried shrimp baskets at local cafes.
Adventure here is best measured in simple pleasures. Teens will love kayaking through the calm backwaters and mangroves, spotting herons and ospreys, or even paddling out to Atsena Otie Key to explore old ruins and quiet beaches. Strolling through the historic downtown, popping into quirky shops, and biking around the island give families plenty to do at an easy pace. Fishing from the pier or taking a sunset boat tour are classic Cedar Key experiences. And for nature lovers, the Cedar Key Museum State Park offers a peek into the town’s rich history and natural surroundings.
4. Delray Beach
We had so much fun in Delray Beach, one of South Florida’s absolute best seaside towns. Nestled between Boca Raton and West Palm Beach, Delray has a cool downtown scene and a beautiful stretch of Atlantic shoreline, one of the best in Florida. Traveling with a teenager, we loved how easy it was to mix beach time with activities, culture, and food options that appealed to all of us.
The beach anchors the east end of Atlantic Avenue, while Pineapple Grove Arts District adds a creative flair just a few blocks inland.
- Best Airport: Palm Beach International (PBI), about 25 minutes away; Fort Lauderdale (FLL) is another option at 40 minutes
- How Many Days: 2–4 for beach time, downtown, and nearby nature
- Time of Year to Visit: December–April
So where should you eat in Delray Beach? Teens will appreciate casual spots like BurgerFi or Pizza Rustica for quick bites, while parents can enjoy upscale seafood at City Oyster or farm-to-table dishes at Farmhouse Kitchen. Don’t skip a stop at Sloan’s Ice Cream because its colorful décor and oversized sundaes are a hit with kids and teens alike after a hot day at the beach.
Days naturally revolve around the ocean, whether it’s swimming, paddleboarding, or just relaxing under an umbrella. For me, Delray Beach struck the perfect balance of fun, culture, and relaxation.
5. Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa Beach is a true a gem along Florida’s famed Scenic Highway 30A. I think it's one of the best beach weekend getaways because of its sugar-white sand, turquoise Gulf waters, and a cool vibe. We found it to be less crowded than some nearby Panhandle spots. We liked the biking trails and state parks here. Traveling with our teenager, we found it was the right balance of relaxation and activity.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park anchors one end of this beach, while nearby communities like Seaside and Grayton Beach are just a short drive or bike ride away.
- Best Airport: Northwest Florida Beaches International (ECP) in Panama City, about 40 minutes away; Destin-Fort Walton Beach (VPS) is another good option at about an hour
- How Many Days: 3–5 for beaches, biking, and day trips to nearby 30A towns
- Time of Year to Visit: March–May and September–October
Our base for three days was 4 star Pensacola Beach Resort which we loved because of its location and upscale amenities.
So where should you eat in Santa Rosa Beach? Teens will love grabbing tacos at Chiringo or wood-fired pizza at Pizza by the Sea. Parents can enjoy Gulf-to-table dishes at The Bay or Stinky’s Fish Camp. For a sweet treat, head to Blue Mountain Creamery.
What should you do in Santa Rosa Beach? Life revolves around the outdoors. Teens can try paddleboarding or kayaking on one of the rare coastal dune lakes, or rent bikes to ride along the scenic 30A bike path. Spend the day swimming in the Gulf, exploring Grayton Beach State Park’s trails, or hiking through Topsail Hill Preserve to see dunes and wildlife.
6. Far Beach, Florida Keys
Far Beach is one of the most beloved spots in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Traveling with our teenager, we found it to be a great first stop in the Keys because it was safe for swimming, I found it easy for snorkeling.
Far Beach sits within the state park just off U.S. 1, about an hour south of Miami. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the picnic tables in the shade.
- Best Airport: Miami International (MIA), about 1 hour north; Fort Lauderdale (FLL) is another option at 1.5 hours
- How Many Days: 1–2 for Far Beach itself
- Time of Year to Visit: December–April
Check out resorts like Playa Largo or Baker’s Cay offer pools, water sports, and spacious rooms, all teen-approved perks. Staying close to the park means you can come and go as you like.
7. Vero Beach
I fell for Vero Beach on Florida’s Treasure Coast on the Atlantic coast because of its relaxing sandy shores, boutiques and family-friendly activities.
Ocean Drive is the heart of Vero Beach, lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants just steps from the sand. Indian River Lagoon and nearby parks give you access to kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching, all within a short drive.
- Best Airport: Orlando Melbourne International (MLB), about 45 minutes north; Orlando International (MCO) is another option at about 1.5 hours
- How Many Days: 3 for beaches, downtown
- Time of Year to Visit: November–April
Good accommodation choices include Costa d’Este or Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa where we were based for three days. Both have pools and beach access which was a highlight for me.
So where should you eat in Vero Beach? Grab fish tacos or sandwiches at Casey’s Place, or pizza at Nino’s Café after a beach day. Parents can enjoy waterfront seafood at Ocean Grill or farm-to-table meals at The Tides. Don’t miss a stop at Kilwin’s or Countryside Citrus for ice cream, both teenage-approved approved by my son.
Besides the awesome beach, some highlights in Vero beach were McKee Botanical Garden, the Vero Beach Museum of Art, and the Environmental Learning Center, where teens can explore hands-on exhibits and nature trails.
8. Anne’s Beach, Islamorada
Anne’s Beach in Islamorada is one of my favorite beaches in the Florida Keys. I loved how this shallow, sandy beach stretches along the Overseas Highway and we found it perfect for wading, swimming, and exploring tidal flats. There is a boardwalk that winds through mangroves. It was nice for a morning stroll and we spotted interesting birds which our teen liked (it got him away from his electronic devices!).
- Best Airport: Miami International (MIA), about 1.5 hours north; Fort Lauderdale (FLL) is another option at 2 hours
- How Many Days: 1–2 for Anne’s Beach itself
- Time of Year to Visit: December–April
Amara Cay Resort or Cheeca Lodge are great places to stay, both with amenities teens will love like paddleboards, kayaks, and bikes.
This beach is all about the simple joys of the Keys. Kids will love wading far out in the shallow water, looking for crabs and fish in the seagrass, and walking along the boardwalk through the mangroves.
For a delicious breakfast or a sweet treat, stop at Midway Café.
9. Naples
I think Naples is one of the best beach vacations in Florida. Why? Naples has an upscale side but natural beauty is all around too.
I like how you can access the Everglades on one side and the Gulf on the other. We came here with our teenager and quickly discovered Naples is just as much about family-friendly fun as it is about fine dining and culture.
The heart of town centers around Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South, buzzing with shops, restaurants, and galleries. To the south, Naples Pier is the city’s iconic sunset spot.
- Best Airport: Southwest Florida International (RSW) in Fort Myers, about 45 minutes away
- How Many Days: 3–5 for beaches, downtown, and a day trip to the Everglades
- Time of Year to Visit: November–April for cooler, drier weather
Many resorts, like Naples Grande Beach Resort or The Ritz-Carlton Naples where we were based for three days, offer family suites and teen-friendly amenities. Staying a little inland? Condo rentals here give families more space to spread out, plus a kitchen for casual meals, and they are more affordable than being right on the coast.
So where should you eat in Naples? Teens will love casual spots like Pinchers for peel-and-eat shrimp or BrickTop’s for burgers after a beach day. For a treat, stop by Kilwins for hand-scooped ice cream. Parents can enjoy upscale dinners at waterfront favorites like The Turtle Club or Sea Salt, while teens appreciate the relaxed vibe and plenty of choices.
What should you do in Naples? Days here can be as active or as mellow as you want. Teens will love renting paddleboards off Vanderbilt Beach, spotting dolphins on a boat tour, or exploring the Naples Zoo. For a dose of culture, check out The Baker Museum or street art downtown.
10. Mexico Beach
I think that Mexico Beach is Florida’s hidden Gulf Coast gem! Just a short 30-minute drive from Panama City, this small seaside town offers a slower pace and a timeless beach-town vibe. Mexico Beach feels like a step back into “old Florida” and for me it's one of the best Florida beaches.
I loved that the town itself runs right along U.S. Highway 98, with beach access points never far from sight. Pier Park once stood as a central landmark before Hurricane Michael. Today, the rebuilt boardwalks and open stretches of shoreline invite long walks, shell collecting, and dolphin watching. Just to the west, Crooked Island and St. Joseph Peninsula State Park made for easy day trips from our base at El Governor Beach Resort.
- Best Airport: Northwest Florida Beaches International (ECP) in Panama City, about 45 minutes away
- How Many Days: 2–4 for a relaxed beach getaway
- Time of Year to Visit: March–May or September–October
So where should you eat in Mexico Beach? Grab fish tacos at Mango Marley’s, enjoy a sunset dinner with oysters at Killer Seafood, or stop by a beachside café for a quick bite between swims.
What should you do in Mexico Beach? Life here naturally revolves around the sand and sea. Spend your days swimming in the calm Gulf waters, fishing off the shore or by charter, and combing the beach for seashells and sand dollars. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline if you want a workout. The evenings are made for watching spectacular sunsets so I recommend that you don't over-schedule the end of the day.
Mexico Beach was the perfect mix of simplicity and natural beauty, one of the best Florida beaches.
Conclusion
After exploring so many of Florida’s beaches over the years we’ve realized that 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 a joyful day by the water.
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.
