In Florida, a state that’s nearly completely surrounded by beaches, it is sometimes hard to choose which beach to visit. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or partying, there’s a beach in Florida for everyone.
Take this from a Florida native, these are the beaches you don’t want to miss out on if you want to go home with a nice tan and great stories to tell.
Here are my 6 “can’t miss” beach destinations in Florida:
1. St. Augustine Beach
St Augustine Beach. Photo Credit: City of St Augustine
For any history buffs out there, St. Augustine is the beach to be at. St. Augustine, known as Florida’s oldest city, has a lot to offer both on and off the beach. Enjoy a relaxing day by the ocean, climb lighthouses, explore historic sights such as forts and museums, enjoy a glass of wine at the beautiful San Sebastian winery, explore the shops on St. George Street, and so much more!
2.Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach Sunset
Located in the Panhandle, Panama City Beach is known for it’s wild beach-goers. While this beach is very calm August-Febuary, it turns into the Spring Break hot spot in March! Panama City Beach is known for having a crazy spring break, year after year, with parties at all of the bars and hotels, as well as many performers on the beach. If you’re not looking to party, during the off-season it’s very tranquil and a great place to relax.
3. Key West
The famous Key West Sunset from Sunset Pier – Key West
The Southernmost point in the United States has a little something for everyone. Key West is well known for it’s stunning sunsets and laid back atmosphere. During the day you can explore the other keys, kayak through the mangroves, or even snorkel through the coral reefs! Then once the sun goes down, Duval Street is also known for the Bars and Nightlife. This is the city that was Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. In Key West you can get a drink any hour of the day — because it’s five o’clock somewhere…
4. Daytona Beach
Sunrise over Daytona Beach – Credit: Wikipedia
Daytona Beach is a much more family friendly beach during the Spring Break season, however this beach has so much to offer all year round! This popular beach destination in Florida has beautiful sunrises and a lot to do just a few steps from the water. And for all of you Nascar Fans, you can check out the Daytona International Speedway where they hold the Daytona 500!
5. Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is where relaxation meets the gulf. This beautiful beach town just outside of Tampa FL is the perfect place if you want to feel the sun on your skin and the sand between your toes. Just a fair warning – being on the gulf, this beach has no waves. However that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy other water activities such as Stand Up Paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, kite surfing, and so much more. The surrounding beaches have a lot of wonderful activities to offer as well!
6. Miami Beach
Arial view of Miami Beach –Credit City of Miami Beach
You’ve heard of Miami Beach, now it’s just time to go there. The beautiful shores in South Beach are home to those who know how to have a good time. Relaxing by the beach by day, and enjoying the upscale nightlife after dark. The Miami Beach area is also a lovely place to try out sailing or getting on a stand up paddle board.
What’s your favorite Florida beach? Please share in comments below.
This post was written by Lauren Youngerman, a student at the University of South Florida studying international business with a focus on Spanish and marketing.
She is a member of her school’s sailing team, and also works as a sailing coach at a nearby club.
Lauren is an adventure seeker who has had the opportunity to live abroad in both Brazil and Nicaragua, as well as to being a part of the U.S. Army.
Currently completing a social media internship for VentureTime Travel, Lauren seeks a career in marketing after graduation. Learn more about Lauren’s work experience via her LinkedIn profile.
Are you planning a trip to Florida? Check out these other related posts:
- Eating Local at the Southport Raw Bar in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Visiting One of Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in Jacksonville, Florida
- 10 Family-friendly Activities for the Ft. Myers, Florida Area
- 14 Fun Facts about St. Augustine, Florida
- 4 Tips for a Perfect Spring Break in Destin, Florida
Follow us on Twitter or interact with us on Facebook.
Or, check out our boards on Pinterest and/or our photos on Instagram.