The Sunshine State offers dozens of different beaches to choose from for your next visit. It can be hard to pick which one is best for you and your family, with so many fantastic options to select from. Today I’m going to share with you my favorite beaches in Florida, to help you plan your next vacation!

The Best Beaches in Florida

Without a doubt Miami’s most famous beach, South Beach is a great place to visit for the younger crowd and party lovers. With the Art Deco buildings opposite the beach and great restaurants and bars just a few minutes’ walk away, you’ll have a fantastic day or two here. The turquoise waters and lively atmosphere of the beach make it one of the top beaches in Florida. If you are visiting for the day, it’s easy to rent beach chairs and umbrellas here, as well as water sports rentals and tours if you are looking for something a little more adventurous. 

Known for its white sands and emerald waters, Destin is located in northwest Florida, on the state’s panhandle. A popular destination for golfing, the beaches here offer a relaxing escape from the crowds in other areas of Florida. Fishing is extremely popular here, as well as exploring the local nature trails at Henderson Beach State Park. This is the perfect place to spend a few days at the luxury accommodations in the area, and if you are traveling with kids, I’d highly recommend taking them to cool off at Big Kahuna’s water park.

More great beaches in Florida

If you are staying in the Orlando area and need an escape from the theme parks for a day, I’d recommend driving to Clearwater Beach. Perfect for visiting at any time of the year, this relaxed beach offers soft, white sands and calm waters. It’s perfect for water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding and jet-skiing. Pier 60 is great to visit at sunset, and there are often fun street performers in the area.

Daytona beach is best known for its NASCAR racing track. However, this city on the Atlantic Coast offers a fun day out for the whole family. The beach has hard-packed sand and driving is even allowed in some areas. The boardwalk’s rides and arcades offer fun for all ages, and the Daytona Lagoon water park is a great place to cool off in the summer. It’s just 51 miles northeast of Orlando, so is another excellent option for visitors to the central Florida area.

For a more tropical, island escape, head to Key West. Featuring the southernmost point on the continental U.S., Key West is the perfect place to extend your vacation with a few days on the beaches here. The area is perfect for walking around, and it’s easy to navigate your way between the beaches and great dining in the area. Smathers Beach is the largest in Key West, and is lined with tropical coconut trees, making you feel like you’ve escaped to the Caribbean!

Wherever you choose to visit on your next trip to Florida, you’ll be spoilt by the stunning beaches the state has to offer. If you are looking for a different type of seaside adventure, consider enjoying a day of inshore fishing. It’s the perfect way to pass a half- or full-day Cape Coral Fishing Charter. Florida is full of incredible beaches and outdoor activities, so make sure you take full advantage of them on your next trip!

Joyce Laroche