What’s Florida known for if not Sunshine and Sand? Certainly, these aren’t the only defining characteristics of the state, and to reduce any state to such a simplified image is potentially offensive, but while it’s certainly got a lot of other great things, beaches are definitely one of them, and that’s what we’re here to talk about today.
To an avid beach-goer, a beach-hopping vacation in Florida probably sounds downright idyllic, and even if you’re not a big-time beach junkie, knowing what beaches appeal most to you before you book a vacation will certainly make a difference in ensuring you enjoy a truly relaxing, fun-in-the-sun style trip.
With that in mind, let’s list off some of the best, prettiest beaches on both sides of the Florida Peninsula, and what makes them so great.
Key West
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities in the mainland? Head just off the coast of Florida to Key West for a slice of pristine, crisp paradise. The beaches are idyllic, the overnight lodging options are luxurious, and there’s a whole lot of adventurous activities you can partake in here. Ever wanted to try snorkeling? Or maybe a 2-person glass-bottom kayak trip where you can see the sea life through the bottom of your boat sounds appealing? Or, if dry land is your forte, perhaps you’d like to bring or rent a bike and try the beautiful local bike path? Key West has all this and more. Head on over for a heaping helping of paradise with a side of adventure.
South Beach
This beach features not only beautiful sandy shores, but also novel, pretty architecture and other eye candy, and a booming nightlife to boot. This man-made beach is as long as it is clean and clear. So go for a morning run, lounge topless in the afternoon when the sun isn’t as intense (use plenty of sunscreen! Remember that the goal should be to enjoy the feeling of warmth, not to actually tan; all tans are damaging tans and increase your risk of skin cancer; use high quality spray tans, tanning lotions, etc instead), and in the evening, stand out here to get not only an enchanting look at the nighttime ocean, but a stunning view of the city’s lights if you turn and face the other way. Then, invigorated by such wondrous sights, waltz right into a club and enjoy the nonstop, bustling, booming nightlife.
Clearwater Beach
A list of Florida’s best beaches would be woefully, woefully incomplete without mentioning Clearwater Beach, which was has a well-deserved reputation as one of America’s finest. The sandy shores are idyllic and beautiful as they are expansive, and the area’s full of extravagant beach-front hotels and opportunities for activities like beach volleyball, boat fishing, dolphin-watching cruises, museums, aquariums, para-sailing, and so much more. If you want the ultimate, archetypal beach experience, this is the place. What on earth are you waiting for, anyway? Get out there and have a blast.
