10 Best Beaches in Florida Where the Sunshine State, Well, Shines

No list of beaches in Florida is complete without Clearwater Beach. Located on Florida's Gulf Coast, this barrier island boasts soft white sand, calm waters and a famous fishing pier that stretches into the Gulf. It’s also home to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where visitors can meet rescued marine animals.

Families love the easy access to restaurants, shops and resorts, making it one of the most family-friendly beaches in the state.

Panama City Beach is where white sand beaches meet classic vacation vibes. Located in northwest Florida, with beaches composed of quartz sand that originated from the Appalachian Mountains, this destination offers 27 miles (43 kilometers) of beach ideal for surf, sun and sandcastles.

The water's edge is perfect for swimming or catching a boat tour, and nearby nature trails provide a quiet escape for those looking to explore.

Nestled along Florida’s Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach combines natural beauty with family-friendly attractions. The sand here is famously soft and white, thanks to ancient quartz carried from the Appalachian Mountains.

This beach is a great spot for a low-key trip, where you can spot sea turtles in season or enjoy a round of golf just a short drive from the shore.

On Florida's east coast, Amelia Island offers a quieter alternative to some of the more crowded destinations. Known for its sand dunes and rich history, the island features beautiful beaches and a charming beach town atmosphere.

It’s also part of the Sea Islands chain and provides a great place to explore coastal nature, take a family bike ride or even go horseback riding along the beach.

If vibrant energy is what you're after, South Beach in Miami delivers. This world-famous beach has everything from white sand to world-class restaurants and nightlife.

Visitors can swim by day, dine by evening and dance well into the night. It's not just a beach; it's a full-on cultural experience nestled on the southern tip of Miami Beach.

Part of the Ten Thousand Islands chain, Marco Island on Florida’s Gulf Coast is ideal for those looking for a beautiful place with fewer crowds.

It features soft sand, luxury condos and a quieter vibe that appeals to couples and retirees. Nature lovers can visit nearby parks like Rookery Bay or go on boat tours to spot dolphins and birds.

Located on Siesta Key just a short distance from the more popular Siesta Beach, Turtle Beach offers a peaceful stretch of white quartz sand and is known for its nesting sea turtles.

This beach is great for shell collecting, and its slightly coarser sand means it doesn’t stick quite as stubbornly as the ultra-soft varieties.

Fort Myers Beach is a hub for both activity and relaxation. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf with shallow waters, perfect for families.

Its vibrant downtown offers restaurants, shops and live music, making it a favorite beach town for weekend getaways. Plus, its location on Estero Island means it has great access to water sports and nature preserves.

Home to some of the most exclusive resorts in the state, Palm Beach blends luxury with natural charm. The soft sand and upscale hotels attract visitors from around the world. It’s also rich in culture, offering museums, historic landmarks and upscale shops alongside pristine coastline.

Just a short drive from downtown Miami, Key Biscayne is a tranquil escape with family friendly beaches and scenic nature trails. Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park offer everything from picnic areas to a historic lighthouse.

It’s an ideal spot to mix a beach day with some Florida history and natural exploration.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.