Whether you favor the big waves of the Atlantic Ocean, the placid waters of the Gulf of Mexico or maybe just a quiet stretch for an intimate picnic, Florida has plenty of beaches to choose from.
On the Atlantic Ocean
- South Beach – We like hanging out at First Street near the new South Pointe Park. After body- surfing SoBe’s biggest waves, we stake out a lounge on the park’s deck to catch rays and watch cruise ships.
- Flagler Beach – A throwback to the 1950s, this quiet beach town halfway between St. Augustine and Daytona is home to a stretch of orange sand perfect for surf fishing—or better yet, cast your line off the 806-foot pier that juts into the Atlantic. We wrap our day in the sun with a cold beer at the Golden Lion, where the locals hang.
- Playalinda – This amazing desolate beach with billowy sand is where we go to unwind and listen to the surf. You’ll find it at the southern end of the Canaveral National Seashore.
On the Gulf of Mexico
- Siesta Key, Sarasota – Like fine powder, the sand makes this shoreline ideal for lingering until the sun sets over the Gulf. We never leave without an icy concoction from the Daiquiri Deck in Siesta Village.
- Pensacola Beach – Emerald water surrounds Santa Rosa Island in the Gulf Island National Sea- shore (hence, it’s undeveloped). Pack a picnic and explore miles of empty beach.
- Clearwater Beach – A family-friendly spot, this stretch along the Gulf Coast has plenty of activity. Everyone gathers for nightly sunset festivities at the pier, and a strip of shops and restaurants, plus a marina, offer everything from baskets of fried fish to fun diving excursions.
Find a spot for your towel in our Ultimate Florida Beach Guide »
