Florida has over 1200 miles of some of the best white sandy beaches in the US. In fact, Forbes ranked two Florida beaches – St. George Island State Park and Caladesi Island State Park – in the top ten best US beaches in 2022.
We admit we’re a little biased but we’ve created a more refined list so you can get a better feel for Florida’s best beaches. So, let’s unpack the 5 Best Beaches in Florida.
#1 Siesta Key
Siesta Key is ranked #1 in Florida beaches. It is a barrier island that sits off the coast of Sarasota, Florida on the Gulf of Mexico. This fun little spot has ranked in the top ten consistently with US News & World Report, among others.
Siesta Key’s sand is composed nearly entirely of quartz-crystal sand which makes walking on it like walking on a cool white cloud that never gets hot. So, you get to enjoy the amazing tropical weather and sun without toasting your tootsies.
#2 Santa Rosa Beach
Located in South Walton, Florida, and ranked #2 in Florida beaches for 2023, Santa Rosa Beach is another incredible Florida Beach. Considered the largest beach neighborhood in South Walton, Santa Rosa stretches from Choctawhatchee Bay to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south and then from Sandestin to Inlet Beach.
Here folks are able to shop, eat, lounge on, or bike the beach, among other things. The beach is quieter than neighboring beaches in Destin or Panama City Beach. Ideal spots include Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, and Blue Mountain Beach.
#3 Marco Island
Ranked 3rd on the list of top Florida beaches is Marco Island. It sits 20 miles south of Naples, Florida, and is accessible via two bridges. Marco Island draws visitors from around the country for its blend of high-end resorts and unspoiled wildlife habitats.
Here, boating is a big deal. And if you love fresh seafood, you’ll find it easily at Marco Island. The island’s beaches are some of the more pristine beaches you’ll find on the Gulf Coast.
#4 Delray Beach
Delray Beach is one of the only downtown areas in the US located directly on the beach. Dubbed “The Village by the Sea” Delray tantalized visitors due to its friendly atmosphere of a small-town feel while still boasting the entertainment options of a large city.
You may be here to see the Wakodahatchee Wetlands or the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, but the beach will beckon to you the whole time. Delray offers water fun like snorkeling or paddleboarding, but the area is also located near many great shops and eateries.
Atlantic Dunes Park offers a quieter beach experience in a tranquil natural setting. When you’ve had your fill of the beach, stroll down palm tree-lined Atlantic Avenue for upscale shopping and vibrant nightlife.
#5 Destin
Ranking #5 for top beaches in Florida for 2023, Destin is and has long been a favorite Florida beach. Aside from pristine beaches this area also boasts multiple adventure parks to keep the family entertained.
Visitors will discover popular stretches of sand like June White Decker Park and Crystal Beach as well as quieter less disturbed places like Henderson Beach State Park. Be sure to check them all out if you can.
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