Ah, Spring Break. It is the time of year when millions of college coeds flee campus and flock to popular Spring Break destinations such as Miami and Panama City. Panama City Police Chief Drew Whitman estimates that in Panama City alone, the city’s population swells from a little more than 12,000 to 150,000 or 250,000 during this season.
While there’s no doubt than Spring Break in some of the major cities can mean serious fun in the sun, there are also hundreds of less crowded beaches sprinkled across America’s coastline.
Many vacationers prefer the peace and tranquility that comes with exploring the path – or beach – less traveled. While these particular beach access points may be more difficult to reach, they offer a certain competitive advantage: seclusion.
Keewaydin Island
A tropical destination hidden in plain sight, Keewaydin Island stretches eight glorious miles and straddles the Gulf Coast between Naples and Marco Island. Without a bridge to travel to and from the mainland, visitors must rent or use a boat to access the secluded getaway.
Keewaydin’s few visitors gravitate to its southern tip, where a quarter-mile path through sea oats, palms, and pines leads to the beach. View dolphins frolicking in the water, collect amazing shells and experience some of the softest sand in Florida by making a trip to Keewaydin Island.
Navarre Beach
You won’t find any bikini car washes or Jimmy Buffet hotels around Navarre Beach. Instead, you’ll be greeted by chirping seagulls and the occasional fisherman who will tip his hat to you while reeling in his daily catch. In fact, Navarre Beach’s fishing pier is the longest on the gulf coast.
It’s the serene coastline that makes Navarre Beach so attractive. A haven for locals, Navarre is truly the state’s best-kept secret. It’s an ideal beach escape for students, couples and families alike.
Caladesi Island
Do you remember the last time you walked across footprint-free sand? An unspoiled gem, Caladesi Island has no paved roads and is only accessible by ferry from Honeymoon State Park or private boat. Spanning three miles, the island offers birding trails and plenty of fishing. As one of the few completely natural islands along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Caladesi’s white sand beaches were rated America’s Best Beach in 2008. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen!
Image by Pinellas County on Flickr
Have Fun
Avoid the crowds and plan your next trip to a more secluded beach in Florida. You won’t regret it! What’s your favorite beach? Let us know by commenting below or by sharing your photos with us on social media! If you need help finding a last-minute hotel reservation for your trip, check out our sister site, HotelCoupons.com.
