Ultimate Guide to Florida’s Best Beaches: Explore the Sunshine State’s Coast

“Clearwater Beach, near Orlando, is a beautiful and family-friendly destination. With its soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and safe environment, it’s perfect for visitors of all ages, including kids. Whether you’re looking to relax or enjoy water activities, it’s a great spot for everyone to unwind and have fun.”

– Phu Diep

“visit and you will know why it was ranked no 1 beach in the USA… Beautiful is the word…

after reading reviews, we thank ourselves that we planned in offseason. as even in a day or sunset time, we did not face that crowd. We parked our car in the garage and walked to the beach, it was nearby. This beach is absolutely gorgeous,
The beach was so big and plenty of space to spread out. Gorgeous water and Soft, white sand almost powdery in nature. The White sand reminds me of Cancun. This is as close as you get to The Caribbean without taking a plane or boat. Once you cross over to the residential area the sand gets rougher but still enjoyable. Sad no sea glass or large shells but loved not getting cut or uncomfortable walking on them. The water was so warm & clear I could see my feet even in the deeper areas. I was able to see a ton of fish swimming around me. There were rippling waves, which made it easy to get in and out. The water was also pretty shallow and you were able to go out pretty far and still only be up to your hips. I just absolutely wish I never had to leave.
The sand was so clean. Someone was in a tractor with a sand cleaner was cleaning the sand while we were there.
Pier 60 at the beach is super cool. The best place to see the best sunset! Great local beach with plenty of restaurants and shops to look around and explore in! It’s got everything you need right in one place! This is by far one of my favorite beaches!
The parking lot is nearby, $1.25/hour and also it is at 490 Poinsettia Ave, Clearwater, FL 33767, so you are set for parking.”

– Sanjay Gupta

“It’s definitely not the best beach I have been to but it’s definitely still amazing to visit here. On the way there there was long line of traffic and the parking lot was almost full still had a lot of fun with my family here :). You could also see all the damage that hurricanes did over here so sad :(“

– Paloma

“Think tropical beach in your favorite magazine… Most beautiful photo ever… That is this beach! Coquina Beach is stunning, it is swimmable, the waves are low and slow… The water is crystal clear and inviting and as an added bonus, the sand is like baby powder… White and soft! Free parking, wonderful restrooms, changing rooms, and sand stations to rinse off. Will not Disappoint!!!”

– Jack Pitzer

“Great beach. Not as peaceful as others because of beach front businesses pumping out loud club music but depends on what stretch of the beach you’re at.
Popular beach and lots happening and lots of shopping close by.”

– L Ledr

“All parking is paid parking, but the beach is public and is free to enter. This is a beautiful and clean beach with amazing colors to the water and stunning stretches of sand. Fun wide sidewalk to walk along the beach side and a sidewalk to walk along the stores and restaurant side. This beach is well worth visiting for locals and tourists.”

– Maria Pellini

“Sand and waves were perfect. Did notice some strong currents so swim at your own risk. You can rent tables and umbrellas at a fair rate. There’s paid parking across the street and some restaurants within walking distance. The sand and beach overall were clean. Great place to bring the kids”

– Khoi Nguyen

“Very nice beach. The disrtance between the water and the watwr is much smaller then any othwr beach I have ever been to. The beach is very clean and walkable. There are little shops to purchase suvioneers. The clothing optional resorts are all in walking distanxe. And the beach is lined with resturants and bars. There are parking lots sparatically placed along the beach for your convienance.”

– Charles Kuykendoll (Onlythesexy)

“I absolutely LOVE Fort Lauderdale Beach, so much to do, so much to see. I like to go every morning. Watch the sun rise, Take a nice cold plunge in the salty sea water. It’s an amazing place to bring your children and animals.
: Dog Beach : Starts at Sunrise Park Boulevard. The state park is utterly stunning. Offers, food, kayak rentals, and beautiful nature trails. It’s honestly the perfect family vacation destination. I’m so lucky to call this home.”

– Kailey Randazzo

“The beaches are much better than in Miami itself.”

– Akop

“Very beautiful beach! You could even see the little imprints of when turtles hatched and made their way to the ocean”

– Penny “Penny Lane” Scott

“Calm waves, beautiful water, and view. No crowds. Not too far of a walk. Would absolutely recommend it. I’d get there early for parking as there isn’t much room to park. Found a sand dollar! Although nothing to look at under the water. & there was algae in some spots. Have to go if coming here!”

– Porsha McCain

“I really love this beach. I always come in January, the wind and waves make me feel alive.”

– Paulina León

“Always visit here whenever possible. A great beach in an amazing location. And as a bonus, it shares my name. How many people took a picture of 2 Stuart Beaches last time I was there without knowing it?!”

– Stuart Beach

“It’s January 2025. Manatee Beach is fully open unlike other beaches that are still dealing with the destruction of the 2024 hurricane season…
Free parking. Nice and long beach for walking, laying and playing.
Water is cool. No one is swimming today.”

– Seb L

“Absolutely loved the week we spent visiting this beach. Early morning and sunset swims were beautiful – gorgeous sunsets! Also, very quiet. Much busier during the day, especially on the weekend of course. Saturdays are all you can pancakes from a station next to the bar. Bar itself opens at 10. Great food stand – Breakfast served til noon, then lunch/dinner. Umbrellas and chairs available for rent as well.”

– Jackie Adler

“Great private, family and pet-friendly beach! Don’t be surprised if you see a nurse shark, a baby one came pretty close to shore while we were there. There’s even food boat that will stop by with food, ice cream and BBQ for purchase!”

– Roz Law-Phillips

“Huge park. Half of the property is designed for dog owners, and half for fishermen and surfers. Pet friendly section offers secluded spots along the inlet which is protected from the surf by a jetty. Calm waters perfect for your pooch. Clean bathrooms and showers. Limited parking so arrive before 9am”

– Richard Marquette

“Relaxing and beautiful beach with a good bar.
Street parking spots are available free of charge.
Have fun!”

– Alee Tara

“There are better beaches!!! It’s not busy which is about the only plus. The sand is dank and we call it dirt sand. The shore gets deep about 3 feet after getting in the water and the waves are always tumultuous!”

– Kelly H

“Our visit to Palm Beach was somewhat disappointing. The beach was very windy and not as clean as we had hoped, with an unpleasant odor from the seaweed. However, we enjoyed the surrounding area, particularly the numerous palm trees – true to the name “Palm Beach” – that add to the scenic beauty. Despite the issues with the beach, the area’s natural charm still made for a memorable visit.”

– Highway Video

“Very nice beach! Not so touristic. No clubs, bars, etc. Nice neighbourhood around that area. Clean and huge!”

– Chris Michael Grünberg

“We always enjoy coming to Fort Myers Beach. Things aren’t the same after hurricane Ian, but this place is making a comeback for sure. Parking can be a challenge, depending what time of day you get here. I would be cautious walking in the water barefoot as there a chance that you might step on sharp objects from the debris washed out by the hurricane. Just bring some water shoes. They detoured outbound traffic around Margaretville until Spring of 2025 for road construction, so this may become challenging to get off the island when all the snowbirds return.”

– Trevor Johnson

“Beautiful beach!!! If you like the traffic of people, stores and the boardwalk vibe as soon as you pass the bridge theres $30 parking in several locasions. Per what I can see from the car i saw a couple portable bathroom, so do some research before selecting a spot. On my end i kept driving straight and found this beautiful park. It was called Newton Park. Parking is $5.00 an hour but they have clean bathroom and a water fountain which is nice. VERY IMPORTANT pay on time, If not you will get a $35 dollar ticket. It also has sitting areas for families. The ocean was calm and clear so for my 5 year old it was perfect. No umbrella rental so bring your own. If you like to collect shells you can do that here too. I recommend this beach 100%, it has a little of everything for all families.”

– Brenda Ortiz

“It’s a beautiful beach. Quite windy and the waves were strong when we visited.$25 entrance fee will allow you to use the admission pass for a week.”

– Joseph Kim

“We loved how beautiful and remote Playalinda Beach is. They only have vault toilets, we did not even look at them, I told my kids to pee in the ocean. There’s no running water, and spotty cell service, but it was worth it to have such a quiet spot on the beach. There are stairs and a ramp with a boardwalk that connects the parking lot to the beach. Parking is $25 and it’s good for 1 week. Lot 13 is a nude beach, but we were in lot 1, which is miles away. I recommend bringing a couple gallons of water or a hand held shower to rinse off before getting in your vehicle.”

– Anna M.

“Amazing warm and clean beach. They had surf boards, boogie boards, chair, and umbrellas for rent. Free parking!! Only 1 shower, but hey not bad. Good waves and fun atmosphere!”

– Julie Esplin

“Nice beach. There’s Cocoa Beach sign can be found when entering the CB area from either side.”

– Tam Henders

“Visit to the Sunset Beach Park on January 17th

– Weather: 64 degrees, beautiful day, not many people
– Facilities:
– Men’s bay out of order
– Family bay available
– Unusual: bottom of the bathroom doors are missing, creating a large gap

Overall impression:
– Beautiful place, smaller than expected
– No sea shells and no waves
– Suitable for those seeking calm and peace”

– Jay Weaver

“Been going here for years now. Sometimes we go in the summer just because it’s close by but we mostly go for sunsets in the winter months. It’s more like a bay experience than a true beach like Clearwater but it’s free to enter and park and it’s a decent alternative if you’re in northern Pinellas county because it’s easy to access and most times easy to park. Bathrooms, a few shelters and a boat launch available for free
It’s a bit small but big enough for everyone to find a spot”

– Robert Conner

“I recently visited Daytona Beach with high expectations, but unfortunately, the experience was quite underwhelming and did not live up to the hype. As a destination known for its vibrant beach culture and attractions, I was expecting a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, but several factors left me disappointed.

The beach itself was not as pristine as I had hoped. The sand was deserted , which was very disappointing. Additionally, the beach seemed less clean than anticipated, with litter in some areas, which was disheartening.

I was expecting a lively and energetic atmosphere, but instead found the area to be somewhat lackluster. Many of the shops and attractions felt dated, and there was a noticeable lack of vibrancy in the downtown area. It seemed as though the town had seen better days and was in need of revitalization.

My visit to Daytona Beach was not what I had anticipated, and I left feeling disappointed. The beach and town did not meet my expectations, and the overall experience was underwhelming. While I understand that some people may enjoy the area for its historical significance and annual events, it did not resonate with me as a destination I would be eager to return to.”

– chris saunders

“Daytona Beach is an iconic destination that perfectly blends natural beauty, vibrant culture, and thrilling activities. The city’s 23 miles of white-sand beaches are its centerpiece, offering pristine shores and the unique opportunity to drive along the hard-packed sand. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, enjoying water sports, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, the beach provides an unforgettable experience.

Beyond the beach, Daytona is rich in attractions. The Daytona International Speedway is a must-visit for racing fans, offering tours and the excitement of NASCAR events. The Boardwalk and Pier are lively hubs with arcades, shops, and local dining options, making them ideal for families and visitors of all ages. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Ponce Inlet and its historic lighthouse offer breathtaking views and serene walking trails.

The city also boasts a thriving cultural scene, with art galleries, live music, and festivals throughout the year. Dining options are diverse, ranging from fresh seafood restaurants to international cuisine. Additionally, the friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere make it easy to feel at home.

Daytona Beach strikes a perfect balance between excitement and relaxation, making it an ideal vacation spot for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. Its affordability and wide range of activities ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Highly recommended!”

– Vijay Goyal

“Awesome beach stop! They have restrooms,showers,changing rooms. They have an awesome mat laid down for you to walk on instead of the sand. Beach it self was nice. Not alot of shells at least that day but I did find 1 sharks tooth.”

– Lisa Hunnicutt

“Went here twice while visiting my hometown. Nice clean beach with showers and changing stalls by the parking lot. Great family fun, beautiful beach to walk along but wear flip flops or beach shoes if you have sensitive feet this beach has always had lots of crushed shells on the beach and partway into the water. Have Fun and Keep the Beach Clean and Be Safe there are no lifeguards.”

– Marlene Jennings

“This is a fantastic beach with a bit of history thrown in. It is super long and great for long walks along the water, but the sand is not hard, so walking is more of an effort than on some beaches. There is surf at times and you might see people out on the waves. You can also see one of the launch pads on the horizon, which takes you back to the Apollo years when you are there.”

– Keith Moore

“Cocoa Beach is a coastal gem known for its pristine beaches and vibrant surf culture. With its wide stretches of golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and consistent waves, it’s a surfer’s dream. Beyond the surf, the town offers a laid-back atmosphere, delicious seafood, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a taste of Florida’s coastal charm, Cocoa Beach has something to offer everyone.”

– Karmaresh Patel

“I love this little beach! It’s peaceful and very beautiful. Sometimes there are drum circle gatherings on the weekends that play in the afternoon until the sun goes down. I do not recommend swimming during low tide due to sea weed and mud. However, when it is high tide and the water covers Beach Sand; it feels like bath water and it’s so very relaxing and refreshing to splash around in. They have a wonderful vendor that provides delicious non alcoholic drinks at very reasonable prices. I would go everyday if I could.
If there is lightning and thunder- there is an alarm that goes off to warn everyone to get out of the water.
The sunset on this beach is exquisite 🌅.”

– Nancy Hamilton

“Nice little beach with some covered picnic tables. Not a lot of parking. Restrooms were closed because of vandalism but they did have port-of-potties on site. Posted no animals allowed but several people had their dogs with them. Didn’t have any trouble and enjoyed our time there.”

– N Allen

“Update Jan 2025: A year makes a huge difference! They have expanded the parking and added washroom 🚻 mobile units. Looking great!

Highly recommend! You can’t go through the lagoon anymore, I mean ypu canbut on you, but the walk around is doable and totally worth it. Bring snacks and spend some time. Don’t get stuck at sunset….while it’s beautiful, there is a little hike back, and the mosquitoes are so bad right there because of the lagoon. There are good shells, but the better ones are on the “South Beach,” opposite sides of the beach stretch. You’re welcome 😊 😉”

– My Life – DIY

“Best beach around in my opinion. Not over crowded, clean, soft sand but still great shells. Can’t beat the sunsets on it either. It’s our favorite beach to visit when we come here.”

– Faith Putz