It has been consistently given awards for the quality of beach, the charming town area and its breathtaking sunset views. Sanibel Island beach is considered the prettiest beach in Florida along with Clearwater, Cocoa and Panama city beaches that are ranked as the best and most popular. Volusia is home to the popular New Smyrna Beach and Ormond Beach, where teens get their hands nibbled on and tourists get a surprise bite. By Nancy DePalma. Greater Proportion of Americans Will Fly for Winter... Should Travelers Connect or Disconnect During Vacation? Heading to Key West in Florida? Clearwater is easily one of the most recognizable beaches in all of Florida. In addition to being a short drive to the city of Savannah, a well-known southern hot spot, the five miles of beautiful powdery sand and the cool breeze of the Atlantic Ocean help make Tybee Island a go-to beach destination. Your Facebook information, including your name, photo & any other personal data you make public on Facebook will appear with your comment, and may be used on TravelPulse.com. The ability to hop into the car and be at a beach on either the east or west coast in less than two hours is a perk of living in Highlands County. 1 trending beach destination for 2017 per Kayak. In no particular order, here are 10 exceptional beaches outside of Florida that all beach enthusiasts should visit someday. Still, no two Florida beaches are alike. Fort Lauderdale is both family- and budget-friendly, offering significantly lower room rates than other nearby Florida beach spots. The sand here is so soft to the touch that it really resembles snow more so than sand. Sand tends to be more tanish than whiteish in color and courser (though every beach on both sides is a bit different). Clearwater Beach is another famous beach in Florida, which boasts some serious bragging rights. The park is also where vacationers can catch the Shell Island Shuttle – which operates during the spring, summer and fall months – to Shell Island, a 700-acre barrier island that's known for its large population of bottlenose dolphins. Makena Beach, also referred to as Oneloa or “Big Beach” in Maui, is a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. The kids will be captivated by the musicians and street performers at Sunsets at Pier 60, while deep-sea fishing, boating, jet-skiing, and spotting dolphins are also popular activities. What's your favorite beach in the Sunshine State? Fort Myers beach is full of excellent resorts, which are popular with couples and families alike, and it is known for being one of the best beaches in Florida for dolphin-watching. There are tons of activities to indulge in, both on land and at sea. Plus there are oodles upon oodles of outstanding restaurants to feast at without feeling overcrowded. On the southeast coast of Florida, Miami’s South Beach is home to some of the most glorious beaches in the nation—wide beaches where locals and out-of-towners alike flock for sandy fun. Or travelers can enjoy a simple walk on the two-and-half-mile-long boardwalk to watch the sunset and forget about life’s worries. That’s an extra month of sunshine! Written by Carri Wilbanks Dec 16, 2019. If you're traveling with kids, venture to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park to snorkel, picnic and explore the park's Civil War-era fort. Bahia Honda State Park (36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, phone: 305- 872-2353) is home to the finest beach in the Keys, Sandspur Beach, renowned by Br. The good news about this feature is unlike natural beaches, which cannot be private, the manmade ones here have no restrictions-so when you lay out, you'll only be competing with other resort guests for the sun lounger in the sand. It’s one of the top 10 beaches in the Florida Keys for a picnic because it’s sheltered, calm, and tremendously pretty, and it has a covered picnic area and lots of parking. From mountain escapes to quaint small towns, a blissful trip for two is right around the corner. Although each area of the Atlantic coast of Florida offers something different, several beaches have been ranked among the best in Florida and are worthy of a special visit. Surfing, boogie boarding, deep sea fishing, are popular activities. If you’re a frequent Florida vacationer, you’re already familiar with Miami Beach. This is the perfect time of year for the snow birds to escape to Miami. And they have their share of hurricanes. SEBRING — Florida has nearly 2,000 miles of coastline and 663 miles of beaches, according to Florida.com. Calusa Beach @mkfc1981. I have been to both the east and the west coast beaches and the prettist beaches are on the gulf side. The latter's pier also hosts the city's annual Fourth of July fireworks show. And be sure to check out … took into account reader votes and factors like aesthetics, atmosphere and convenience to rank the best Florida beaches. July 19, 2019. At MM 34 in the Lower Keys, Bahia Honda State Park welcomes visitors to two of some of the Keys' best beaches: Sandspur Beach and Caloosa Beach. Ocean City, New Jersey Voted as America’s No. What are your favorite beaches, outside of Florida? No town in Florida has completely escaped the effects of all past hurricanes. 4. Many of the beaches in the Florida Keys are man-made and usually attached to a resort. What do you want from living in my state? Plus, the diversity of its shores – from family-friendly to party-focused – helps draw different types of travelers. And if you're looking for a place to stay, click here to see the Best Resorts in Florida », California Do Not Sell My Personal Information Request. The island is located about three-fourths of the way down the Florida Keys at Mile Marker 37 on Big Pine Key. Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key State Park offer ample amenities, calm waters and dolphin and sea turtle sightings, but for more elbow room, check out some of Gulf Islands National Seashore's less-crowded beaches, such as Opal Beach. From big cities to quiet mountains, couples will find endless romantic vacations in Texas. The city’s coastline offers endless miles of sugar-white sand, crystal clear waters, and temperate weather. Great time of year to avoid the extreme heat. Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links. It seems fitting that the Sunshine State would be a magnet for sun worshipers from around the world. It’s also a stellar place for surfing and skim boarding (moms need not worry as lifeguards are on duty). I’m that rarest of creatures in Florida. Panama City Beach's 27 miles of Gulf of Mexico beaches offer a range of pursuits for travelers of all ages. Nestled between West Palm Beach and Miami, Boca Raton boasts 2 miles of lifeguard-protected sands. In no particular order, here are 10 exceptional beaches outside of Florida that all beach enthusiasts should visit someday. Cape Cod, Mass.Perhaps one of the more famous beach areas in all of America, Cape Cod still boasts an excellent array of beaches for all travelers to enjoy. Or, try surfing at Tracking Station Beachfront Park. Although St. Augustine only offers two beaches within its city limits, this historical destination boasts proximity to a variety of sandy shores. Find your favorite Florida beach with our handy guide. For a surfing keepsake, stop by Cocoa Beach's Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world's largest surf shop. The longest stretch of protected coastline in the country also houses three historical forts and incredible snorkeling and kayaking opportunities. The turquoise crystal clear water, sandy beach, and swaying palms make up … Makena Beach is that ideal stunning Hawaiian beach you’ve always dreamed of visiting.Coronado Beach, San Diego, CaliforniaRanked as the top beach in California for 2016 and labeled as the “Toast of Southern California” by “Dr. Plus, the diversity of its shores – from family-friendly to party-focused – helps draw different types of travelers. Maybe you’ll see a celebrity, maybe you won’t, but either way you’re going to have a splendid time given the great weather and astonishing atmosphere. But luckily, the beaches are completely free to enjoy. Sharks are a fact of life in Florida. Wisconsin offers plenty of secluded cabins and charming small towns perfect for traveling twosomes. Chile Blog, US State Travel Restrictions: December’s Latest COVID-19 Requirements Vacationers can lounge on a variety of man-made beaches, such as Harry Harris Park (with calm water and picnic facilities) and Cannon Beach (a stretch of sand in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park that was named after its 17th-century cannons). Pack your bags and don’t forget your sunscreen as we reveal the best Florida beaches for you and your family to visit this year. For years, there has been widespread agreement that the best beaches in the Florida Keys are in Bahia Honda State Park at MM 36.8. #14 in Best Florida Beaches Nestled between West Palm Beach and Miami, Boca Raton boasts 2 miles of lifeguard-protected sands. 100 Lighting Way Secaucus, NJ 07094-3626 USA | Telephone: (201) 902-2000, Last updated: 12:10 PM ET, Tue January 24 2017. Decide which vacation rental site is right for you using this comprehensive guide. Vote below to contribute to next year's ranking. Must-visit beaches include South Inlet Park (a fishing hot spot that's rarely crowded) and the nearly 40-acre Red Reef Park, which offers superb swimming, snorkeling and surf fishing conditions. Sharks are a … Then, visitors can make their way to Pier 60 to watch a breathtaking sunset and participate in evening crafts and entertainment. Here, the pastime is "shelling" – collecting assorted, colorful seashells along the sand – rather than partying, making this beach town an excellent choice for families. Beachgoers may even spot dolphins, sea turtles and other critters during their visits. Destination & Tourism, Copyright © 2020 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Florida has beaches with crystal clear … If you're at the beach, there's probably one within a beachball bounce away. Just make sure to follow the signs and please do not pocket the sand as a souvenir. Makena Beach, Maui Hawaii Maui is the No. Depends, the gulf has calm water with a long run out on the beach. Surfside, Near Miami Beach. The open beach is the … Blue skies, white sand and clear warm waters: Florida's East Coast beaches routinely deliver on all three fronts. After picking up a sandwich from a beachside eatery to enjoy in one of Humiston Beach Park's picnic pavilions, head a mile north to Jaycee Beach Park, a quiet stretch of sand with a boardwalk and a park. Clearwater Beach was USA Today’s Readers’ Choice for Best Beach Town in Florida in 2013. Florida is the southernmost state in the United States. Take a break from shopping on St. George Street and touring Castillo de San Marcos National Monument to go shelling, kayaking or bird-watching at Anastasia State Park. However, some Florida cities are far less affected by hurricane damage and forced evacuations, than others. Luxurious hotels and mountainside adventures await couples vacationing in North Carolina. Miami Beach When outsiders think of Florida, they often start with Miami Beach, and its diverse and famous "South Beach" culture. Gulf Shores, AlabamaBeaches may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Alabama. Plus, it’s less than a half hour drive to the remarkable Flora-Bama bar, where yes, you can drink in two states at the same time. This central stretch of Florida coastline is called the Treasure Coast for good reason — several Spanish galleons from the 1715 Treasure Fleet, lost in a hurricane, have yet to be recovered in these waters just off Vero Beach. I’m a native. A picturesque beach town and home to the Hangout Musical Festival in May, the prices here are typically cheaper than those you’ll see in nearby Florida. The Florida Museum of Natural History's map of unprovoked shark attacks since 1882 shows the total number of incidents by county. So, instead of giving the Sunshine State anymore shine, let’s take a look at some other amazing shorelines around America where travelers should sail away. Here are the top ten cities with the best weather in Florida, according to Sperling’s Best … The Atlantic side is more of an "ocean" experience because it is an ocean, not ocean water in a gulf. For a relaxing beach getaway on Florida's Atlantic coast, check out Vero Beach. Plop down a beach lounger, pull out a good book, and soak it all in. Smathers Beach is without a doubt one of the best beaches in Florida Key West. What's your favorite beach in the Sunshine State? October 30, 2019 Pinterest; Facebook; Twitter; Email; Related To: Beaches. It was the set used for the classic movie “Some Like It Hot”, which starred Marilyn Monroe. Families flock to Destin for its white sands, gorgeous Gulf waters and frequent sunshine. People flock to Florida for its thriving culture, breathtaking nature, and vibrant nightlife, but there's more than just the touristy cities we all know and love. Really, it’s hard to go wrong no matter which shoreline you pick in Hawaii. Because the 1,080-foot pier is adorned with various lights, anglers often come here at night to fish. Travelers will find popular stretches of sand like June White Decker Park and Crystal Beach by the town's resorts and vacation rentals, but for a more laid-back atmosphere, sunbathe on Henderson Beach State Park's Appalachian quartz sands. San Miguel de Allende, Codie’s Corner: Creating Travel Templates Or, drive 4 miles northeast of downtown St. Augustine to Vilano Beach to surf or fish off of its pier. Many little beach towns with unique attractions and quality amenities are tucked away along the Florida coastline. While Cannon Beach isn’t your typical sit and tan for hours type beach, its extraordinary views off the Oregon coast make it a site worth seeing for all beach lovers. Limited travel due to the coronavirus prompts airline and hotel rewards programs to make policy changes. 1 beach of 2016 per Coastal Living, Ocean City has a perfect All-American feel to it. Visitors will find miles of relaxing shorelines and an urban cityscape – perfect for those looking to escape to the beach without feeling disconnected. Time and time again, Clearwater shows up on numerous “best of” beach lists. Fort Lauderdale Beach Park appeals to families and fitness-conscious travelers with its ample amenities, including a playground and basketball and volleyball courts, while Las Olas Beach features clean sand and clear water. 3) Apalachicola Florida. You'll be hard-pressed to find a place in Florida with quieter and calmer shores than Sanibel Island. What beach in Florida has the clearest water? Travelers can soak up the sun and enjoy the sensational views of the … Meanwhile, Shell Key Preserve offers ample opportunities to spot shorebirds while sunbathing. Visit the Hotel del Coronado, a Victorian landmark built in 1888 located right next to the beach. Destination & Tourism The beach is famous for its surf, laidback lifestyle and beautiful natural landscape. With about 1,200 miles of coastline, Florida is a year-round travel destination for many on the East Coast. However, the luxury resorts and costly activities can make a Naples vacation quite expensive. Photo via Adobe Images. San Miguel de Allende: The Heart of Mexico Located close to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is a must see for any beach lover. Unfortunately, this beach can get … For the best seashells, head to Bowman's Beach or Blind Pass Beach. But the weather is very pleasant 70s and 80s. If you’re hunting for the best Florida beaches for families, look no further… we’ve compiled a list of family-friendly beach escapes on the gulf coast and along the Atlantic. Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Sanibel Island is just about three-hour drive from Tampa and makes a great weekend trip from the city. The soft sand stretches on for miles, but the most popular area is by the pier, where beachgoers sit under umbrellas or enjoy a … Therefore you get surf/waves. A superb location for families and couples, the clean beaches help make it a relaxing getaway for many northern travelers. Atlantic side have the waves rays and sharks. I take exception with most of the answers on the page. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Be careful not to disturb any sea turtles, though, as they use Tybee’s shores as a home to lay their eggs from May to October. 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