The Best Beaches in Florida

By Jenna Sims
May 10, 2019
Romona Robbins Photography/Getty Images
Also lovingly referred to as The Sunshine State, Florida is a welcome retreat for beach lovers year-round. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side, and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, the Southernmost state in the contiguous U.S. has no shortage of beautiful destinations. Whether you're planning a mother-daughter trip, a weekend away with your girlfriends, or a week-long family vacation, these are the beaches that belong on your Florida bucket list.
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There's a Beach for Everyone in the Sunshine State

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Seaside

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

This charming town along Florida’s gulf coast is the perfect slice of paradise for a relaxing getaway. With white picket fences, bike paths, and an idyllic town square, Seaside was created with the motto "new town, old ways" in mind. Just be sure you make time to enjoy at least one sunset from the rooftop at Bud & Alley's.

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Sanibel Island

Credit: The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel

If you're looking to relax and disconnect, we've found the place for you. A nature lover’s paradise, Sanibel is known as the Seashell Capital of the World and is home to the 6,400-acre J.N "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which offers a free nature photography program throughout the year.

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St. Pete Beach

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

Historic beachfront hotels like The Don Cesar, also known as the Pink Palace, have been welcoming guests to St. Pete Beach for over 90 years. While the gorgeous beaches are the main attraction, you'll also want to check out shopping and dining in downtown St. Petersburg.

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Anna Maria Island

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Get a taste of island life without leaving the U.S. on this barrier island where you won't find any high-rise condos, in fact they're not allowed. What you will find is local seafood dives and plenty of old Florida charm.

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Clearwater

Credit: Courtesy City of Clearwater

Voted the number one beach in America in 2019, for the third time in four years, Clearwater continues to be a favorite of visitors from around the world. With two nearby airports and an average of 361 sunny days per year, planning a visit to see the crystal-clear water and breathtaking sunsets in person should be on your bucket list.

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Pensacola Beach

Credit: Visit Pensacola

Pensacola’s white sand beaches and turquoise waters are hard to beat. It's also home to the longest stretch of federally protected seashore, Gulf Islands National Seashore, which offers activities like snorkeling, kayaking, biking, and more.

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Higgs Beach

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Tthe clear turquoise waters and tropical landscape will make you think you're in the Caribbean, but you can visit Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park in Key West without a passport. The Higgs Beach Pier and West Martello Tower are must-see spots in the almost 17-acre park.

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Destin

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Located on the Emerald Coast, and also known as the world’s luckiest fishing village, Destin is the ideal destination for seafood lovers and fishermen alike. Whether you want to enjoy the Gulf waters by land or sea, there's plenty of fun in the sun awaiting in Destin.

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Cocoa Beach

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Located on the Space Coast an hour outside Orlando, Cocoa Beach is an affordable and fun vacation destination the whole family will enjoy. The Atlantic Ocean beach is known for its great surf conditions and space history.

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Panama City Beach

Credit: Visit Panama City Beach

With 27 miles of coastline, Panama City Beach is an ideal destination for those who enjoy long walks up and down the beach. If you want a break from enjoying the main attraction, head to Pier Park for shopping and dining, Shipwreck Island for some waterpark fun, or take a shuttle to Shell Island to enjoy a natural coastal ecosystem.

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By Jenna Sims