10 of The Best Beaches to Visit in Florida
1. Clearwater Beach - Best for a classic family beach day
Powdery white sand, inviting Gulf waters and beautiful sunsets make Clearwater a Florida favourite. Stroll along the beach, enjoy the lively atmosphere around Pier 60 and finish the day watching the sun dip below the horizon. Pure holiday magic!
2. Siesta Key Beach – White Sand Heaven
If soft, white sand is your idea of paradise, Siesta Key should be on your list. Its famous quartz sand stays relatively cool underfoot, making it perfect for barefoot beach walks, sandcastle competitions and lazy afternoons beside the sea. It's easy to see why this beach is so loved!
3. Anna Maria Island – Old Florida Charm
A must visit! Anna Maria Island offers a laid-back island atmosphere, beautiful sandy beaches and colourful coastal charm. Think beach walks, little local shops, fresh seafood and afternoons with nowhere in particular to be. It's ideal for anyone who wants to experience a more relaxed side of Florida.
4. Cocoa Beach – A Great Day Trip from Orlando
Fancy swapping the theme parks for the Atlantic coast? Cocoa Beach is one of the most convenient beach escapes from the Orlando area. Watch the surfers, wander along the famous Cocoa Beach Pier or browse the enormous Ron Jon Surf Shop. It's a brilliant way to add a little seaside adventure to your Florida holiday.
5. Sanibel Island – A Shell Collector's Dream
Sanibel is famous for its beautiful seashells, making it a favourite for families and anyone who loves exploring the shoreline. Take a peaceful beach walk, see what treasures the tide has brought in and enjoy the island's natural beauty. Just remember to leave live shells where they belong!
6. Naples Beach – Sunset Perfection
For a beach day with a touch of elegance, Naples is a lovely choice. Enjoy a stroll along the sand, explore the nearby shops and restaurants, then settle in for a beautiful Gulf Coast sunset. Sometimes the simplest holiday moments turn out to be the most memorable.
7. Destin Beach – Emerald Waters and White Sand
Destin is famous for its striking emerald-green water and bright white beaches. It's a dream destination for swimming, boat trips and simply soaking up the sunshine. It's further from Orlando than many other beaches, but if you're planning a longer Florida road trip, this stretch of coastline is well worth considering.
8. Fort Lauderdale Beach – Beach Life Meets City Life
Love having plenty to do? Fort Lauderdale combines a lovely sandy beach with a lively promenade, waterfront restaurants and shopping nearby. Spend the morning by the ocean and the afternoon exploring the city. It's a great option if you enjoy a beach break with a little extra buzz.
9. New Smyrna Beach – Relaxed Coastal Vibes
Looking for a laid-back beach day without too much fuss? New Smyrna Beach is known for its surf culture, long sandy shoreline and relaxed atmosphere. It's a lovely option for guests wanting to escape the theme parks and enjoy a different side of Florida.
10. Pensacola Beach – Powder-Soft Sand
Imagine brilliant white sand stretching alongside beautiful emerald water. That's the appeal of Pensacola Beach on Florida's Panhandle. It's fantastic for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying those picture-perfect beach views, although it's a long way from Orlando and best included in a separate trip.
