Choosing what beaches to explore on your holiday can be a challenging task when you have limited time and lots of choice. Florida is known for its amazing beaches, but which one is right for you?
Here’s our top 5 picks of Florida’s best beaches, from the west coast to the east. Now, where’s the sun cream?
SOUTH BEACH, MIAMI
South Beach – or SoBe – is Florida’s most famous and stylish beach, and for good reason. Spanning a cool 2.2 miles, there’s more to this beach than white sand and Atlantic waves. Expect A-list shopping, Art Deco architecture and a plethora of cool restaurants and bars on the Boardwalk to keep you busy come day or night.
CLEARWATER BEACH, CLEARWATER
As a peninsular, most of Florida is beach lined. However, the creme de la creme has to be along the Gulf Coast to the west. A firm favourite with families, the award winning Clearwater Beach offers the perfect relaxed setting with shallow water and plenty of space. If watersports are your thing, try parasailing or a boat tour. Plus the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to Winter the Dolphin, who the kids are sure to fall in love with.
SIESTA KEY BEACH, SARASOTA
This award winning beach is best known for its silky soft white sand – more than 99 percent pure quartz. Popular with families and couples, Siesta Key is the perfect playground for day time fun (including volleyball) and glorious evening sunsets.
DAYTONA BEACH
Venture to the bustling Daytona Beach for a day of adventure! With 23 miles of sandy beach to explore there’s no time for boredom on East Orange Avenue. Beyond the beachfront, there’s everything from surfing, paddle boarding, museums, shopping and golf to keep you busy. There are even day spas to indulge in a pamper session. Throughout the year, events such as farmers markets, art shows and festivals take place here so it’s worth keeping this in mind when planning your visit.
BAREFOOT BEACH, BONITA SPRINGS
Located on the south west coast, this preserved area contains over 340 acres of lush vegetation alongside a mile long stretch of beautiful white sand. It’s one of the last undeveloped beaches along the Florida coastline. Barefoot is perfect for sunbathing, while immersing yourself in nature. Enjoy a spot of fishing, hike through mangroves and look out for sea turtles too!
