The Sunshine State of Florida is well-known for the pleasantly warm climate and white sandy beaches that line the clear blue waters. The state draws in tourists from all over the world, luring them towards beach parties, suntans, and a plethora of fun activities to partake in, such as fishing, rowing, and paragliding.
Since the state is a popular tourist attraction, there are plenty of events and shows that occur throughout the year, such as mermaid shows, and ski shows. Pair the many fun options you have with delicious food and stalls scattered over the beaches, and you have a world-wide tourist mecca!
However, you may get overwhelmed since there are so many different beaches in Florida; here’s a list to help you narrow down your choices and choose the best ones to visit:
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1. Clearwater Beach
This picturesque beach is famous for its soft white sand that stretches along the Gulf for 2.4 miles and ends at the marina and sand key, a barrier island on the opposite side.
Apart from scenic views of waves crashing the shore, there is a resort on the beach, and a residential area, located not too far in Clearwater city. The entire site contains various retail shops, restaurants, and activity stalls where you can paraglide into the sunset, rent a jet ski, play miniature golf, or join a boat tour.
At the center of the beach, you’ll find a playground for kids, a snack bar and souvenir shop, along with a lengthy fishing pier, where you can kick back with a cold beer.
2. St. Pete Beach
Located in Pinellas County, Florida, St. Pete is a coastal city and a famous tourist destination. While the flourishing beach is the center of attraction, the downtown area has some of the best restaurants, shopping malls, and retail stores, surrounded by a small residential district.
The Upham Beach Park can be found on the northwest side of the city and offers bathrooms, parking, showers, and a snack bar with delicious food, wine, and craft beer. You can also head down to the Tradewinds Island Grand Resort, where you can buy a day pass for accessing their amenities, such as pools, slides, mini-golf, and the beach cabana.
3. Sunset Beach
Located in Treasure Island of Pinellas County, Sunset Beach is a beach-front community and draws in tourists from far and wide with their quiet environment and scenic sunsets. Sunset Beach accepts people of all lifestyles and is a popular spot for families who want quiet time.
Walking on the white sand, the first thing you will notice are the little tiki huts, unique houses, and beach-front bars, where you can quench your thirst and enjoy some snacks. There is a shower and pavilion available, along with cafes and restaurants lining the beaches. The boardwalk lets you relax and enjoy the sunsets, and you may even spot a dolphin or two!
4. Belleair Beach
Belleair Beach can be found within the beach-front community of Belleair. When you stop by here, you will notice 4,500 feet of white powdery shore and charming waterfront homes that are secluded and ideal for getting away from crowded cities.
This quiet paradise is home to various sea turtles that wash up on the shore, and sea-birds that created their nests nearby. While there are no active sports on this beach, it may be the ideal spot for someone that looks for a getaway for the weekend. There are no restaurants or cafes around the beach, and if you want to shop or eat, you will have to head downtown.
5. Madeira Beach
Another famous waterfront city, the Madeira Beach community, is home to a beautiful and quiet beach with vibrant blue waters. Also known as the Mad Beach, this little spot offers scenic vistas, plenty of fun things to do, and no shortage of delectable seafood!
You can take a stroll to the long boardwalk, where you will come across a simple waterfront complex, John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk; Here, you will find more than 100 different restaurants, shops, and watersports businesses.
Surf Style offers charming souvenirs, while Florida Windworks sells creative chimes and kites to take with you. You can dine at various spots, offering Thai food, pizzas, and seafood, or head to Mad Beach Brewing for a lively bar and cold-crafted beers.
6. Ben T. Davis Beach
Located in Tampa city, Ben T. Davis Beach is one of the best in the city and is close to the Tampa International Airport. The crashing waves drown out any signs of noisy planes, and people are often picnicking in the sand and watching the sun sink into the cool water.
Beach volleyball is a popular sport here, and you will find well-organized local teams playing for prizes. You can join in or head to the Courtney Campbell trail for a walk or ride.
7. Apollo Beach
The Apollo Beach Nature Reserve offers two magnificent beaches in Hillsborough County. It is a 63-acre nature preserve that is home to various aquatic creatures and has 2-acres devoted to its sandy beaches and tourists. While there is no swimming allowed here, you can sunbathe, have a picnic, take a walk on the short nature trail, or enjoy shoreline fishing.
There are many amenities offered, as well, such as birdwatching, restrooms, picnic tables, and an observation tower, where you may spot a manatee! You’re also allowed to bring your pets with you for a walk, as long as they’re well-trained.
8. Sand Key Park
This little hidden gem has been kept a secret by the locals of Clearwater because of the tranquility and colorful landscapes. While it can get a little crowded because of the residential district nearby, it tends to be pretty quiet throughout the year.
There is no shortage of things to do here, and there’s something for everyone. You can relax at the beach cabana, shower at the large bathhouses, take your dog to the dog park, or send your kids to the nearby playground.
You can head to some of the shacks to try your luck surfing on the waves or ask to visit the pink salt marsh to watch the local birds nesting and feeding.
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