10 Best Beaches in Florida – Maps of the Top Family Locations Near Orlando, Key West, the Gulf Coast & More in 2024
There’s no need to jet off to the Caribbean or Mexico, or even further, to experience a gorgeous beach vacation. Instead, beautiful beaches are waiting stateside, in the Sunshine State. Florida offers hundreds of miles of beaches, with nearly 200 “official” beaches — which gives you plenty to pick from. Whether you’re a traveling family looking for a quiet spot with kid-friendly waters, or you’re an adventurous couple or single looking for a beach with a party vibe, you can find it in Florida.
Not sure where to start? Here are 10 of the best beaches in the state, and what you can expect at each.
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When to Visit Florida
But before you start packing your bags (see our beach vacation packing list guide), it’s important to consider the time of your visit. While you can expect sunny skies and warm temps in island locales like Aruba all year-long, the same can’t be said for Florida.
In general, it’s best to plan a Florida vacation for either the spring or fall. If you want to avoid spring break crowds in certain destinations, though, you’ll want to aim for fall specifically.
The winter months in Florida can get pretty chilly — even in southern Florida. If you travel to northern Florida as late as March, you can find temperatures that require bundling up. And forget swimming. On the flip side, the summer months are hot, but they also can be crowded and expensive.
So, plan your trip to the Sunshine State for sometime around April or May (to avoid the bulk of spring breakers in March), or October, if you want to avoid the more active months of hurricane season.
Whenever you decide to visit Florida, though, here are a few beach destination ideas to get you started with your vacation planning.
1. Siesta Key Beach
A top-rated beach that sits on the Gulf, this unique beach is a favorite for both families and water sports enthusiasts. A short drive from downtown Sarasota, the eight-mile beach faces the Caribbean. The sand is almost entirely made up of ancient quartz from the Appalachian Mountains, giving the sand an extra-smooth, totally-white appearance. You might even find that the sand here is extra-cool on your toes, too.
Swimming, snorkeling, ocean fishing, and ocean kayaking are all on tap. The wildlife is plentiful as well, with manatees and dolphins taking up residence in the waters off-shore.
Location: Sarasota County, Florida. Siesta Key is located on Florida’s west coast and faces the Gulf of Mexico.
Closest Airports
- Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) – 10 to 11 miles away
- Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 72 to 77 miles away
Siesta Key is a little over 70 miles from the Tampa International Airport and the drive typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes depending on traffic. If possible, I recommend flying into the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport and taking the 10-mile Uber ride to Siesta Key. Since Siesta Key has everything you need, it is not necessary to rent a car and a shorter drive is always better.
Nearby Hotels
Tropical Beach Resorts – For a quieter experience, I recommend staying towards the southern part of Siesta Key at Tropical Beach Resorts. The resort is reasonably priced and located a short walk away from Crescent Beach. Select rooms include full kitchens, which allow you to save money on food and eating out. There are a few nearby grocery stores that allow you to fully stock your kitchen as well as buy beach essentials like sunscreen. Visitors staying at the Tropical Beach Resorts also have free access to the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley. The trolley travels from Siesta Key Village to Turtle Beach, with additional stops along the way. Turtle Beach has darker and coarser sand, which is a bit of a different experience than the usual white, sandy beaches that Siesta Key is known for.
Tropical Breeze Resort – For an experience closer to Siesta Key Village, I recommend staying at the Tropical Breeze Resort. Select rooms come fully equipped with kitchens, which is a huge benefit if you prefer to do your own cooking. The famous Siesta Key Beach is a short walk away, and the hotel provides complimentary towels and beach chairs. Various restaurants, including the Siesta Key Oyster Bar and The Hub Baja Grill, are a very short walk away, and they offer live entertainment on most nights. The start of the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley is also a short walk away, and it goes all the way to Turtle Beach.
Other Recommend Hotels:
Why We Like Siesta Key
The small town and walkable nature of Siesta Key Village is a huge appeal for those who just want to relax and not have to worry about driving. With a variety of close restaurants and grocery stores, you can spend a week or longer without having to leave the key. While it has nightlife, including live music, it is much more laid back than a place like Miami and cheaper than a similar spot like Key West. Walk, or hop on the trolley, to explore the entire key and watch the sunset at Turtle Beach. Compared to similar destinations, I would say Siesta Key is on the more affordable end. The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler regularly vacations at Siesta Key and highly recommends it.
2. South Beach
Looking for something a little livelier, with more partying than paddling? Then look to South Beach, in Miami. The 2.5-mile, Caribbean beach at the very tip of Florida is only the start of the fun that awaits here. Step out of the sand and find Art Deco architecture, museums, outdoor dining, shopping, nightlife, and more. Sure, it’s a little crowded, but the crowds come with some glamor. Don’t be surprised if you catch sight of a celeb or two.
Location: Miami, Florida. South Beach faces the Atlantic Ocean and is located in the southernmost part of Miami Beach.
Closest Airports
- Miami International Airport (MIA) – 10 to 15 miles away
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) – 28 to 35 miles away
South Beach is close to two international airports. Miami International Airport is 10 to 15 miles away, which is around a 20-minute drive. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is 28 to 35 miles away, which is around a 45-minute drive. Rush hour traffic can extend each drive considerably, so consider when your flight lands. Since each airport is so close to South Beach, I recommend flying into the one with cheaper flight prices.
Nearby Hotels
The Betsy Hotel – Located towards the northern end of Ocean Drive, The Betsy is still close to the action while offering a little more quiet than other South Beach hotels. It is located across the street from the beach and offers guests chairs and umbrellas. The hotel itself features a rooftop pool with drink service. For those wanting to exercise, it is close to a walking/bike path right along the beach. It is a bit fancier than other Ocean Drive hotels, but the amenities more than justify the cost.
1 Hotel South Beach – Located on Collins Avenue between 23rd street and 24th street, 1 Hotel South Beach offers a more secluded experience than even The Betsy. Featured are a private beach, four swimming pools, and numerous dining options. It is still walkable to Ocean Drive if you are looking for more of a party atmosphere. On the other hand, it is also a short walk to the even more secluded Mid Beach.
Other Recommend Hotels:
- Clevelander Hotel (for those looking to party)
- The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club
- Hotel Victor South Beach
For a quieter experience, I recommend staying south of 5th street or north of 20th street. While Miami does not require a car, see our best Miami car rental companies article if you plan on renting.
Why We Like South Beach
With two major international airports, most Americans can travel to South Beach at affordable prices. While it is more known as a party destination, South Beach is beautiful and usually clean. Hotels on Ocean Drive or Collins Avenue are a short walk, so you do not have to worry about driving and parking. It is also close enough to Mid Beach and North Beach if you want to get away from the crowds. Visiting South Beach allows you to experience Miami’s diverse food scene and culture. Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park make for great day trips to experience Florida’s natural beauty. Its South Florida location is one of the main reasons it is number 2 on our list; It is generally warm enough to visit throughout the winter.
3. Smathers Beach (Key West)
But you can head even further south, into the Caribbean, for more top-rated Florida beaches. Those who have never been to Key West may be surprised to find out it is not exactly a major beach destination. I know I was when I first visited in 2019. The good news is Key West does have Smathers Beach, which is in a more secluded part of town. It is a beautiful public beach featuring crystal-clear water with minimal waves. Unless you are staying at one of only a few hotels, you will have to drive to get there.
Location: Key West, Florida. It is located along Highway A1A not far from Key West International Airport.
Closest Airports
- Key West International Airport (EYW) – 1 mile away
- Miami International Airport (MIA) -160 miles away
For convenience’s sake, I recommend flying to Key West International Airport. Unfortunately, prices are often high for direct flights, and you may need to book a layover in Miami. If a direct flight to EYW is not an option for you, your next best bet is to fly to Miami International Airport and drive the 3 and a half hours to Key West. That is what I did, and it was one of the most beautiful drives I have ever taken.
Nearby Hotel
Margaritaville Beach House Key West – Located right across the street from Smathers Beach, Margaritaville Beach House is the only universally walkable hotel. I stayed there when it was the Sheraton, and it has since been updated. It is a beautiful hotel with great views of the beach. It also offers a short shuttle ride to the popular Duval street.
Other Recommend Hotels:
Why We Like Smathers Beach
Despite being one of the only natural beaches in Key West, it rarely feels like it’s too crowded. Being within walking distance of only one hotel probably contributes to that. The still water allows for easy stand-up paddle boarding and other water activities. And even though it feels secluded, it is still a close car or shuttle ride to a variety of restaurants and bars.
4. Clearwater Beach
Fourth on our list, Clearwater Beach is incredibly popular with vacationers from all over the southern U.S. Travelers flock in from surrounding states to drive to this beach destination with loads of amenities.
Situated on the Gulf, the beach features vibrant green waters and soft, white, palm tree-dotted sands. Water sports are plentiful here, with jet-skiing, paddle boarding, canoeing, parasailing, and more available. Shopping and dining options (as well as hotels) line the three-mile beach. A promenade also makes for a good spot to take in the sights. Nightly live street entertainment is likewise to be expected.
Location: Clearwater, Florida. It is located on Florida’s west coast and faces the Gulf of Mexico.
Closest Airports
- St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) – 12 to 13 miles away
- Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 21 to 28 miles away
Clearwater Beach is within 30 miles of two international airports. I recommend checking airfare prices to see which airport makes more sense. Clearwater Beach is 12 and a half miles from St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, which is around a 30-minute drive. The other option is Tampa International Airport, which is 21 to 28 miles from Clearwater Beach depending on the route you take. Expect a 40 to 50-minute drive. If you do fly into Tampa, see our best car rental companies in Tampa article.
Nearby Hotels
Hotel Cabana – This is my favorite place to stay in Clearwater Beach. It is located slightly north of the busy area, so it provides a quieter and more secluded experience; The good news it is still walkable to a variety of bars and restaurants. It is a block away from the beach and is one of the more affordable hotels in Clearwater Beach. I recommend paying a little more for a “vacation rental” on Somerset Street.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa – The Hyatt Regency is located towards the southern part of Clearwater Beach and is much closer to the action than Hotel Cabana. It is located directly on the beach and has amenities that you would expect from a more upscale hotel, including a full-service spa and rooftop pool. While my top recommendation is Hotel Cabana, the Hyatt Regency is another great hotel.
Other Recommend Hotels:
Why We Like Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is constantly rated as one of the top beaches in the country for its beautiful sand. I love how walkable Clearwater Beach is and visit it often. In addition to being able to explore the city of Clearwater, the beach is also within an hour’s drive to Tampa. The two close international airports mean most Americans should be able to find an affordable, direct flight. Baseball fans can catch a Phillies spring training game at the nearby BayCare Ballpark; They can also take a trip to Tampa to see a Rays game.
5. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park (Key West)
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park offers a family-friendly shoreline on Key West, with the beach being situated a ways off from the historic fort. Families and adventuring travelers alike love this small spit of land with its vibrant blue waters, fishing, snorkeling, and swimming. The sand is a little rocky here, so bring water shoes; while the rocks aren’t ideal for things like wading, they do make great little homes for the tropical fish, so keep your eyes peeled. Please note, there is a $6 per vehicle fee (up to 8 people) to enter; Pedestrians must pay $2.50 to enter.
Location: Key West, Florida. Located near the southern tip.
Closest Airports
- Key West International Airport (EYW) – 1 mile away
- Miami International Airport (MIA) -160 miles away
Nearby Hotels
You’ll find quite a few hotels just a short drive from the state park, though don’t expect to find too many options on the budget-friendly end. Key West is notoriously expensive. Still, you’ll have lots to choose from, including options from favorite brands:
Why We Like Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
The Fort Zachary Taylor State Park beach offers a different experience than other Key West beaches, in my opinion. In addition to enjoying the beautiful beach, you can check out the fort and lighthouse. You can also hike or bike on the mountain bike trail. While I still prefer Smathers Beach for the typical beach experience, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park beach is still a can’t-miss spot when visiting Key West.
6. Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is more than a singular beach. Instead, the name refers to an entire neighborhood with nine different beaches. However, whichever of these you visit, you’ll find gorgeous, clear waters alongside white, soft sand. The beaches are known for being exceptionally clean, with minimal seaweed. If you venture off the beach, you’ll find lots of dining and shopping in the surrounding neighborhood, but without the heavy party vibe that you’ll find in spots like South Beach.
Location: Miramar Beach. It is located in Florida’s panhandle facing the Gulf of Mexico not far from Destin.
Closest Airports
- Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) – 25 to 26 miles away
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS) – 60 to 80 miles away
Search flight prices for both Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport and Pensacola International Airport. While Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport is closer to Miramar Beach, it may be tougher to find a direct flight. Expect to rent a car when flying into both airports but especially for Pensacola International Airport.
Nearby Hotels
You’ll find several resort-style properties on the Miramar Beach coastline. The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, for example, is a good pick for those who want plenteous resort amenities. If you don’t need to be directly on the water and would prefer to stay closer in town, so you can take advantage of dining and shopping, The Hyatt Place Sandestin at Grand Boulevard might be a good pick for your travels.
Why We Like Miramar Beach
I like Miramar Beach when I want to take a more low-key beach vacation. While it is a bit tougher to find good flights from many cities around the United States, it is more than worth it when you get there. In addition to Miramar Beach, you are within driving distance of Destin Beach, Pensacola Beach, and even Orange Beach in Alabama, which is a favorite of mine.
7. Santa Rosa Beach
Next, not too far away from Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach offers 26 miles of northwest Florida coastline stretched across technically several beaches. White sands and bright, blue-green waters await, but minus the crowds you’ll find in some of the neighboring destinations. Family-friendly and near lots to do when you’ve had your fill of sand and surf for the day, Santa Rosa Beach ticks a lot of boxes for a lot of travelers.
Location: Santa Rose is in Walton County. It is located in Florida’s panhandle and faces the Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Closest Airports
- Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) – 34 to 41 miles away
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS) – 89 to 101 miles away
Nearby Hotels
If you want to stay strictly in the Santa Rosa Beach area, you’ll find that most of your accommodations options are small and/or locally owned. Blue Mountain Villas by Ocean Reef Resorts puts you right on Santa Rosa Beach’s Blue Mountain Beach.
Other Recommended Hotels:
Why We Like Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach is another great spot for those looking for a quieter experience. While you have to drive a little further after landing at Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport or Pensacola International Airport, I think it is worth it. Enjoy the warm feel of the Gulf of Mexico or the Choctawhatchee Bay. Miramar Beach is also a short drive away, so I recommend hitting both if you have the time.
8. Panama City Beach
Next, Panama City Beach in northwest Florida, much like Siesta Key, offers white, quartz-crystal sands that extend for 27 miles. Along that stretch of oceanfront, visitors find lots of public beach access points, as well as two state parks and lots of restaurants and attractions that cater to tourists. This beach town is a great pick for those who want lots to do and a fast pace, but in a family-friendly setting all at the same time.
Location: Panama City Beach. It is located in Florida’s panhandle between Pensacola and Tallahassee.
Closest Airports
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) – 19 miles away
- Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) – 60 to 65 miles away
Ideally, you fly to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport when visiting Panama City Beach because it is only around 20 miles away. If you cannot find a flight into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, consider Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport, which is around 60 miles away.
Nearby Hotels
You’ll find dozens of waterfront accommodation options here. Look out for your favorite international hotel brands, because they probably have a property on Panama City Beach. Accordingly, top-rated options include the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Panama City Beach and the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Panama City Beach.
Why We Like Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach offers the perfect combination of being a family-friendly beach town while also boasting many nightlife options. While still located in Florida’s panhandle, it is further east than Miramar Beach and Santa Rose Beach. You still get to enjoy the warm Gulf of Mexico water while having more things to do at night.
9. Daytona Beach
Next, hear us out on this one. We know what you’ve heard about Daytona Beach. It’s a hub for spring break partiers and bikers. But while this may have been true decades ago, it’s not quite the same now. Daytona Beach has become a little more family-friendly in recent years, making it a great spot to go if you’re seeking a getaway that’s all about the 23-mile beach and budget-friendly to boot. You can find some great hotel deals here, with stays right on the water and near the main street pier.
Location: Daytona Beach, Florida. It is located in Florida’s east coast facing the Atlantic Ocean. It is northeast of Orlando.
Closest Airports
- Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) – 3.7 miles away
- Orlando International Airport (MCO) – 72 to 89 miles away
Those strictly visiting Daytona Beach should attempt to fly directly into Daytona Beach International Airport. Those who cannot find a cheap flight or want to visit Walt Disney World too should fly into Orlando International Airport. See our best Orlando airport car rentals guide for additional information if you take that route.
Nearby Hotels
Check out the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort or the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, for 4-star service at rock-bottom prices.
Other Recommended Hotels:
- Courtyard by Marriott Daytona Beach Speedway/Airport
- Residence Inn by Marriott Daytona Beach Speedway/Airport
Why We Like Daytona Beach
I love that Daytona Beach is under 1.5 hour drive to Orlando, Florida. Since Walt Disney World is located in central Florida, Daytona Beach works as a great split trip or even a day trip. In addition to beautiful beaches, you can catch a race at Daytona International Speedway.
10. Cocoa Beach
On Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach awaits as a quiet, family-friendly beachfront community that allows you to enjoy the nearby NASA-related attractions while also getting away to the water as you wish. Known as one of the best spots to surf on the Atlantic side of Florida (and in the Southeast in general) and with an 800-foot boardwalk, six-mile Cocoa Beach also puts you within easy reach of golf courses and a casino (in case you’re not traveling with the kids).
Location: Cocoa Beach, Florida. It is located on Florida’s east coast facing the Atlantic Ocean. It is southeast of Orlando.
Closest Airport
- Orlando International Airport (MCO) – 51 to 52 miles away
Your best bet when visiting Cocoa Beach is flying into Orlando International Airport. It is 51 to 52 miles away, which is around a 50-minute drive depending on the day.
Nearby Hotels
You won’t find the same wide variety of hotels here that you might in other Florida beach destinations, but there are a few staples. Check out the Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach-Cape Canaveral or Radisson Resort at the Point.
Why We Like Cocoa Beach
Another great Florida Beach. I love its proximity to Orlando as well as being under 100 miles from South Florida beaches like Stuart. The sand is beautiful and there are a variety of delicious restaurants like Florida’s Fresh Grill. I highly recommend visiting Kennedy Space Center when vacationing in Cocoa Beach.
FAQs
Here is how we rank Florida’s nicest beaches:
1. Siesta Key Beach
2. South Beach
3. Smathers Beach
4. Clearwater Beach
5. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach
6. Miramar Beach
7. Santa Rosa Beach
8. Panama City Beach
9. Daytona Beach
10. Cocoa Beach
For comfortable temperatures, I recommend visiting Florida beaches in the spring or the fall. Florida is generally too hot in the summer, so I would look elsewhere. For the winter, I recommend sticking to beaches in South Florida like South Beach, Smathers Beach, and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach.
Per the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 90% of Florida’s beaches are public. While most of the beaches are free, you may have to pay parking and/or entrance fees at select beaches.
The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts
Bordering both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, Florida offers some of the best beaches in the country. Each has its own special charm, so I recommend visiting as many as you can on our list. I am partial to Siesta Key and Smathers Beach, but I see the appeal in all of them.
Further Reading:
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