When it comes to summertime, everyone loves heading to the beach. The warm sun, the sparkling water, the sound of waves crashing, hot sand between your toes, seashell collecting…we could go on!
And on the East Coast, few places have the number of awesome beaches than Florida. So it’s no wonder it becomes such a hot spot (literally) once the temperatures start rising. After a long winter and wet spring, the crowds start flocking to Florida’s beaches.
So, which one is the best? Well…we have a few opinions, but the honest answer is there are tons of great beaches to enjoy in Florida.
Let’s take a look at some of them.
Grayton Beach
While many people start flocking to the beaches near Miami (and there are some great ones), there is a hidden gem along Scenic Highway 30A in Northwest Florida. Here, you’ll find Grayton Beach. As part of a Florida State Park, Grayton Beach is home to not only pristine white sand beaches, but also nature and hiking trails as well as camping opportunities virtually year round.
See and do: Underwater Museum of Art, Fishy Booty Charter
Eat: The Red Bar
Delray Beach
On the Atlantic Coast, tucked between Palm Beach and Ft. Lauderdale, you’ll find Delray Beach. This area draws plenty of visitors and has been named “The Most Fun Small town in America” because of it’s combination of easy accessibility, great beaches, and plenty of things to do in and around town. This beach is known for being family friendly because of all the activities you can enjoy on the sand.
See and do: Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, Pineapple Grove Arts District
Eat: Deck 84
Sanibel Island
If you’re looking for a beach vacation that is going to offer nothing but the sound of waves and gulls, far away from the hustle and bustle of life, Sanibel Island is the place for you. Located on the Gulf Coast this tiny spit of land is famous world wide for its shelling. People flock from all over to gather thousands of these beautiful shells and enjoy the peaceful surrounding areas.
See and do: Sanibel Island’s Farmers Market, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
Eat: Cip’s Place
Fort Walton Beach
Destin is another popular hot spot in the Gulf Coast beach scene, but it’s really easy to see once once you are able to enjoy the beach yourself. The beaches in and around Destin, especially Fort Walton Beach are known for long stretches of white sand and clear blue water, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming, so don’t leave home with out your gear!
See and do: Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park , The Island Pier
Eat: Crab Trap
Cocoa Beach
Not far from both Orlando and Cape Canaveral is Cocoa Beach, a barrier island on the Atlantic Ocean side of Florida. This area is most famous for it’s wave, attracting generations of surfing fans of all ages and abilities. Not only is Cocoa Beach home to the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop (where you can get outfitted for a lesson), but also the Cocoa Beach Pier, where you can get in all your people watching!
See and Do: The Dinosaur Store, Florida Surf Museum, Exploration Tower
These are just a handful of Florida beaches, and hopefully some you haven’t had the chance to experience yourself yet. If you have been to any of them, leave a comment and let us know what’s your favorite!
