Florida is not lacking in beaches! The state boasts nearly 1,200 miles of coastline and of that, 663 miles are gorgeous beaches. Several of the gorgeous white sandy beaches in the state are heralded as the best in the world and you’ll find a bustling nightlife surrounding the most popular of these.
Also consider some of the quieter options though? Many of the most family-friendly beaches are located in the State Parks–in fact, all of my personal favorites happen to be within our state park system!
Beaches and Coastlines
Panama City Beach: (Panhandle, Panama City) I hesitate to list this here because Panama Beach has become the spring break capital of the United States. The beach itself is pretty, and used to be gorgeous before all of the development. If you’re looking for a beach pulsing with life, this is the spot and enjoy your nightlife at the largest nightclub in the U.S. just nearby.
Naples Beach: (West Coast, Naples) Naples is a very popular Florida city and this beach is the reason. Stop here and enjoy views over the Gulf of Mexico as well as the city’s famous Millionaires’ Row. It’s a wealthy city but window shopping is free and the beach is kept impeccably clean, and sunset from the Naples Pier is stunning.
Clearwater Beach: (West Coast, Tampa Bay) Very clean and soft, fine white sand have made this beach popular. There are points in the year when it’s really fairly normal here, but Spring Break is a time to avoid. There is a good-but-not-overpowering nightlife right on the beach as well.
South Beach: (Miami) Would any list be complete without South Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Florida? This spot has a huge international nightlife scene and the Cuban and Latin American culture spice up this beach considerably. The water is clean and clear here and you’ll find the beach surprisingly busy in the morning hours with joggers and topless sun bathers.
Less Touristy Beaches
Fort DeSoto State Park: (West Coast, near St. Petersburg) This State Park sits on the West Coast Florida and is an easy driving distance from anywhere in St. Petersburg and the touristy beaches in that area. The park is usually filled with families from the area making a great day trip or weekend trip out of the experience. Though Fort DeSoto may not have the prettiest beaches in the state, the shallow wading waters, wildlife and laid-back vibe make this a winning beach option…and one of my favorite Florida experiences to boot!
Bahia Honda State Park: (South, Bahia Honda Key, The Keys) So. Very. Peaceful. And beautiful. You’ll find not only some pretty and secluded beaches, but the State Park also features 635 acres of nature trails in addition to highlighting a portion of Henry Flagler’s railroad.
Caladesi Island State Park (West Coast, Clearwater Beach): Escape from Clearwater Beach itself with a trip to the 3.5 mile long strip of land that constitutes Caladesi Island. It’s fairly secluded and quiet, especially considering the beach’s proximity to Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg. As a double bonus (and I do love bonuses) you can enjoy the nature trail for sightings of racoons, armadillos, rabbits and a rattlesnake on a good day. Getting there means ferrying from the Honeymoon Island State Recreation Area.